HURRICANE SANDY PREPARATIONS
OCTOBER 29, 2012
Noon
Middlebury Police & Fire personnel continue to closely monitor the path of Hurricane Sandy. Current predictions have the storm veering to the west through central and western New York before turning north and dissipating over central Canada. As of this morning, estimated total rainfall for the Champlain Valley is less than originally forecast, making the wind associated with the storm a bigger concern at this point.
With wind gusts of 40 miles per hour or more, branches and trees may be blown down. Town Public Works personnel are on stand-by to clear downed trees and branches on Town roads. For residents clearing downed trees and branches, please follow the advice of Vermont Emergency Management: "if you come across a downed power line, never touch it - all power lines should be treated as if they are live at all times. When clearing downed trees be sure they are not in contact with power lines as trees can conduct electricity and you can be electrocuted."
With high winds anticipated, anything outdoors which can become airborne should be taken in as a precaution: flags, political signs, sandwich board signs, etc. Though small in size, these items can be hazardous in high-wind conditions.
Although we do not believe it will be needed at this time, the emergency shelter at the Municipal Gymnasium is prepared to accommodate those evacuated from their homes or in need of emergency shelter due to potentially hazardous conditions or storm damage. Buses from Addison County Transit Resources (ACTR) are on stand-by to transport residents during an evacuation, if any.
Emergency response personnel will continue to monitor the weather throughout the day. Another update will be issued at 4 p.m. Updates are also available on the Town's website, www.middlebury.govoffice.com
and on the Middlebury Police Department's Facebook page:
