**** HRM Media Release
Storm preparedness tips
The Halifax Regional Municipality continues to monitor the weather forecast, with rain, high winds and dropping temperatures expected to move into the Halifax region Saturday and Sunday.
Current forecasts indicate heavy rain beginning late afternoon Saturday, tapering off overnight. Winds will reach up to 80 to 100 kilometres per hour on Saturday. Temperatures will drop from double digits on Saturday to near or below freezing by early Sunday morning. Residents can expect power outages, as well as icy conditions and are advised to exercise caution while commuting during the storm.
Impact of COVID-19 on municipal service standards
Due to resourcing challenges as a result of the impacts of COVID-19, including employee exposures and provincially mandated self-isolation and testing requirements, service standards are expected to be impacted. This includes Halifax Transit, solid waste collection, some recreation centres and other municipal operations. For the most up-to-date information on municipal impacts as a result of COVID-19, visit halifax.ca.
Property damage
Urban Forest crews continue to address obstacles in the right of way, and are prepared to respond to the impact of increased winds on compromised infrastructure.
The largest threats to homes and properties include flooding, further damage to trees, and power outages. Residents are asked to move all items inside that could be picked up by high winds (such as umbrellas, patio furniture, garbage, flowerpots, toys, etc.).
Residents who can safely do so are encouraged to clear nearby storm drains to help reduce the likelihood of water pooling.
Preparedness tips
With the potential for power outages, residents are encouraged to visit halifax.ca for a full list of preparedness and emergency kit tips. Residents with wells are encouraged to fill water jugs and bathtubs, as a loss of power will prevent access to well water that relies on electric pumps.
Emergency food and water should be on hand for all family members, including pets. All personal vehicles should be filled with fuel and cell phones should be charged. Many households are now solely reliant on cell phones, therefore, battery chargers are recommended. Flashlights should also be equipped with new batteries.
Special items, such as prescription medication, infant formula, equipment for people with disabilities, and medication for pets or service animals, should be gathered before the storm.
Cash should also be on-hand in the event of a power outage, as bank machines may be non-operational.
Safety
Residents are reminded to never operate a generator, BBQ or any other fuel-filled item inside a home or garage.
Residents are urged to stay away from the coastline during any severe weather event, due to dangers associated with potential storm surge(s).
Stay informed
Residents are urged to sign-up for hfxALERT, the municipality’s mass notification system. Subscribers will receive alerts by phone, email or text. Sign up at halifax.ca/hfxalert.
Residents can also call 311 for updated information on municipal services, or to report issues such as flooding, downed trees or blocked roadways. For emergencies, residents should call 911.
Residents are encouraged to visit halifax.ca/snow or follow @hfxgov on Twitter for updates and information during a weather event.
