The National Weather Service has issued a high wind warning in effect until 10am tomorrow (Friday) morning. Southwest winds 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 60 mph expected in communities set back from the ocean. Southwest winds of 35 to 45 mph with gusts to 70 mph along the beaches and headlands. Damaging winds could blow down trees and power lines. Areas along the coast are already seeing continued power outages from the last storm on Monday. Power crews have called in additional help to try to get power back on but this next storm could delay that. Widespread additional power outages should be expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. Be especially careful in open areas such as bridges. Fasten loose objects or shelter objects in a safe location.
A Flood Advisory remains in effect until Friday as well. Flooding caused by rain and snowmelt remains possible. Excessive runoff may result in flooding of larger rivers and streams. A flood advisory remains in effect for much of the region for minor flooding of small streams and creeks, as well as areas of poor drainage. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop. Heavy rainfall over the next few days will create the potential for small stream flooding. Additional rainfall of 1 to 3 inches are likely for the interior lowlands and 3 to 7 inches for the Coast Range.Turn around, don`t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles. Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize the dangers of flooding.
Be prepared for a power outage or if you are traveling make sure you have a safety emergency kit in your car. Here are some things to have on hand
Water – 1 gallon per person per day
Non-perishable food (for family members and pets)
Battery-powered radio and extra batteries
Flashlight and extra batteries
Blankets
First aid kit with essential medications
Manual can opener
Solar-powered cell phone charger
Copies of important family documents
Cash
Special items for infants, elderly or disabled family members including prescription medications.
For your car:
Tool kit and/or a multipurpose utility tool
Flashlight and extra batteries
Reflective triangles and brightly colored cloth to make your vehicle more visible
Compass
First aid kit with gauze, tape, bandages, antibiotic ointment, aspirin, a blanket, nonlatex gloves, scissors, hydrocortisone, thermometer, tweezers and instant cold compress
Nonperishable, high-energy foods, such as unsalted nuts, dried fruits and hard candy
Drinking water
Reflective vest in case you need to walk to get help
Car charger for your cell phone
Fire extinguisher
Duct tape
Rain poncho
Additional items for cold weather include a snow brush, shovel, windshield washer fluid, warm clothing, cat litter for traction and blankets
It's also a good idea to keep family and emergency phone numbers, including your auto insurance provider and a towing company, in your phone.
93.7 the WAVE radio station is also on the air to provide news and information regarding the storm.
