DHSS Press Release |
Date: October 16, 2009 DHSS-97-2009 |
| Rita Landgraf, Secretary Carl Kanefsky, Communications Director (302) 255-9047, Pager Email: carl.kanefsky@state.de.us |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DPH URGES DELAWAREANS TO PREPARE FOR NOR'EASTER
This weekend, a Nor'easter is expected to bring high winds and moderate flooding to Delaware, and Delaware’s Division of Public Health (DPH) urges Delawareans to prepare accordingly. The storm will largely impact Kent and Sussex Counties, according to the National Weather Service.
A High Wind Warning is in effect along the Atlantic Coast between 8:00 p.m. Thursday and 6:00 a.m. Friday, when gusts could reach 60 mph. A Wind Advisory is in effect for Sussex County between 5:00 p.m. Thursday and 10:00 a.m. Friday. The Delaware Bay and oceanfront coastline is under a Gale Warning. Forceful winds may topple trees and wires.
A Coastal Flood Watch is in effect late Thursday night through Friday evening. The National Weather Service expects up to three inches of rain to pelt Delaware between Thursday and Sunday, with the worst rainfall on Thursday night and Friday. Substantial coastal flooding could occur, particularly during Friday morning’s high tide. Flooding may also occur in inland flood-prone areas, especially those along waterways.
In Lewes, a 7.4-foot crest is predicted for the three tide cycles between early Friday morning through Saturday morning. In Lewes, minor flooding begins at 6.0 feet and moderate flooding begins at 7.0 feet. At Reedy Point near Delaware City, DE, an 8.0-foot crest predicted for Friday morning is expected to rise to 8.5 feet by mid-day Saturday. At Reedy Point, minor flooding begins at 7.0 feet and moderate flooding begins at 8.0 feet.
The weather may improve on Saturday. Sunday's forecast calls for cloudy conditions with a chance of light showers.
For more information, visit the DPH website at www.dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dph and view the "News and Media" link. For information on cleaning up after flooding or determining safe drinking water, click on the "A-Z Fact Sheets" link. Contact DPH 24/7 by dialing 1-888-295-5156.
Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.
