Tuesday 10/29/2012 -What we can expect today....

Weather 

 

Windy with periods of rain that will be accompanied by heavy downpours and strong wind gusts at times. High 59F. Winds NNE at 40 to 60 mph. 1 to 2 inches of rain expected. Winds could occasionally gust over 70 mph.  A s of 2:00am this morning, Sandy has ceased its NorthEasterly ovement and is now moving due North at 14 mph and will be turning towards the coast later today.

 

High Tides

[A.M.]

 This morning's high tide is at 8:38 a.m with a scheduled astronomical height of 6.0 feet and will be accompanied by a projected storm surge of some 3 to 4.5 feet.

[P.M.]

This evening's high tide is at 8:59 p.m with a scheduled astronomical height of 5.3 feet and will be accompanied by a  projected storm surge of some 5 to 10 feet.

Comments

There are several factors we all have to be concerned with today as we experience the brunt of Sandy's weather.

1.  We will be experiencing sustained high winds, oftentimes gusting to Hurricane force.  Once the winds pick up, do not venture outside your homes to avoid serious injury.

2.  Remain acutely aware that there is a distinct possibility of our area sustaining a power outage today because of the sustained high winds. of this storm. If the power does go out, shut down your main panel and turn off all your individual breakers.  When power is ultimately restored, turn your main feed back on and bring your individual circuit breakers back on line one at a time.

3.  Make sure an adult is awake and alert during times of tidal flooding to monitor the height of the water.  This morning's high tide (8:38 am) will be bad but this evening's high tide at 8:59 pm will be worse and will take place without the benefit of daylight. Keep and eye on your propane tanks.  I would recommend that you shut them off and disconnect them from your regulator to avoid damage to your regulator and gas lines in the evnt the flooding rips them away from your house.

4. If, at any time, it appears that the tidal flood waters will reach any area of your house where electrical lines/circuits are located, shut down your main feed immediately and only
attempt to restore power after the storm has passed and tidal waters have receded as described in #2. above.

5.  I would recommend that you take pictures or a video of the interior of your home and all furnishings, appliances, etc. now to provide insurance adjusters with proof of the condition of residence prior to tidal flooding in the event your home is breached.

6.  Remember, none of us are alone as we are all facing this storm together!  As I was posting this, I received an email from Queens DOT Commisioner Maura McCarthy and Joe Menzer from the RBA Group wishing all their friends here in Broad Channel well in the hopes that all stay safe.Keep in touch with your neighbors and friends during this storm and above all...stay safe!