Officials promote preparation in wake of ‘superstorm’
Though a statewide state of emergency was declared Monday, Tyler County and the surrounding areas have remained wet but relatively unscathed by Hurricane Sandy’s wrath.
The eastern mountain counties were expected to experience blizzard like conditions receiving up to two feet of snow. The eastern panhandle counties were expected to experience flooding, and southern counties have already received some snowfall. High winds and precipitation predicted throughout the state could potentially cause power outages.
As of Tuesday afternoon, roughly 30 Tyler County residents were without power, with restoration expected within 24 hours. Additionally, the Ohio River is expected to crest Nov. 1 just above 25 feet at the Hannibal Lock and Dam. That is nearly 10 feet under the flood stage for the area.
Local officials said they would continue to monitor creeks and streams throughout the county, and an emergency contingency plan is always in place in the event evacuations were to occur.
Despite not experiencing the full impact of Hurricane Sandy, individuals are encouraged to take the opportunity to prepare a survival kit and emergency plan in the event a similar storm or disaster were to strike the area.
The survival kit should include a supply of non-perishable food and water, medicines, including a written copy of prescriptions, extra clothing, blankets, rain gear, portable radio and extra batteries, flashlights and battery powered lamps with extra batteries, first aid kit, pet disaster kit (food, water, leashes, dishes, toys, carrying case or crate), wrench or other tools to turn utilities off, manual can opener, local maps and a cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger.
Individuals should also monitor radio and television for weather reports and urgent announcements. Tyler County residents can also use the tylerwv.com website on their mobile device or computer to track weather, flood levels and receive urgent updates.