Tips to Prepare for Irene in Mont Co.

The National Weather Service is warning residents in Montgomery County to be prepared for damaging winds, torrential rainfall and wide spread flooding Saturday and Sunday.

Sustained Tropical Storm force winds are expected to begin late Saturday evening with gusts ranging to 65mph. Damage to canopies, awnings, carports, roofs and siding is likely. The possibility of power lines being knocked down by large branches of trees will most likely cause power outages in many parts of the area.

According to a press release on Montgomery County’s web site, Hurricane Irene is expected to drop seven inches of rain, or more throughout Saturday and Sunday.

Because of the area’s oversaturation, due to the recent abundance of rain highly susceptible small creeks and streams will rapidly flood.

Montgomery County Public Safety Department will be increasing staffing in its 9-1-1 emergency call center but residents are asked to only call 9-1-1 if they need a response by police, fire or EMS.

Power outages should be reported to PECO by calling 1-800-841-4141.

Those interested in being updated about the storm are being encouraged to sign up for emergency text messages at https://montco.alertpa.org/.

The Mayor of Philadelphia has issued a statement that all public transportation and regional rail service will be suspended as of 12:30 am Sunday. 

Here are some tips on preparing for the storm:

• Be sure to secure loose outdoor items that may be tossed around and cause additional damage.
• Check on elderly neighbors and relatives to help them prepare their properties.
• Be sure to bring all of your pets indoors.
• Have a flashlight with fresh batteries.  
• Stay away from downed wires.
• Do not drive during the storm unless absolutely necessary.
• Do not use charcoal grills indoors.
• Be careful using generators: gasoline powered models that are not properly ventilated may cause carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Keep PECO's emergency telephone number handy (1-800-841-4141)

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