Public Service Announcement
Strong Winds, Heavy Rains Forecast for HRM This Afternoon and Evening
(Wednesday, October 15/2003)-- Halifax Regional Municipality is urging residents to exercise extreme caution in light of the high winds and heavy rainfall forecast for the area, beginning this afternoon and continuing until midnight.
HRM reminds residents that many trees, particularly in the former cities of Halifax and Dartmouth, have been weakened by the high winds of Hurricane Juan last month and could again be affected by the strong winds forecast for this afternoon and evening.
Due to the potential risk of falling trees and branches and to help ensure personal safety, residents are urged to remain indoors, if possible, during this period, and motorists are urged to stay off streets and roads unless absolutely necessary.
Fallen trees could cause power outages, so residents are reminded to always keep an emergency kit on hand at home at all times. This kit should include food, a supply of water, clothing, blankets, medication, flashlights, a battery-powered radio, extra batteries and a First Aid kit.
HRM is also urging residents to ensure that catch basins in front of their properties are clear from leaves and other debris to help prevent any flooding, due to the heavy rains forecast.
The municipality's EMO Operations Centre will be on "active standby" status this evening.
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John O'Brien
Corporate Communications Officer
(902) 490-6531
