**** HRM Media Release
Municipal update regarding efforts to prepare for significant weather event
The municipality’s Emergency Management Division is closely monitoring the weather forecast as a complex weather system is expected to move in to our region as early as Monday morning.
Beginning Monday and spanning into Tuesday, the storm is expected to bring in excess of 100-150 mm of rain with winds expected to reach 90-100 km/h.
The municipality is activating its Emergency Operations Centre as of tomorrow morning. It will remain activated until the storm has passed.
Support for those experiencing homelessness
The municipality is working with the Province of Nova Scotia to provide temporary emergency shelters as well as comfort centres to occupants of homeless encampments in the region.
These accommodations will provide individuals, and their belongings, a safe place to stay during the storm.
Residents urged to prepare in advance
The largest threat to homes and property is flying debris. Please move umbrellas and patio furniture inside and remove anything that high winds could pick up such as garbage, flower pots, toys, etc.
Residents, who can do so safely, are encouraged to clear storm drains of debris to reduce the likelihood of water pooling.
Emergency food and water should be on hand for all family members, including pets. Personal vehicles should be filled with fuel and cell phones should be charged. Many households are now solely reliant on cell phones so battery chargers are recommended. Flashlights should also be equipped with new batteries.
Never operate a generator, BBQ or any other fuel filled item inside your home or garage.
Residents are urged to stay away from the coastline during any severe weather event due to dangers associated with potential storm surges.
With the potential for power outages, residents are encouraged to visit our website for a full list of preparedness tips and emergency kits. If you have a well, it’s recommended you fill water jugs and your bathtub, as a loss of power will prevent access to well water that relies on electric pumps.
Special items such as prescription medication, infant formula, equipment for people with disabilities, medication for your pets or service animal 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.
Residents are also urged to sign-up for hfxALERT, the municipality’s mass notification system. Subscribers will receive alerts by phone, email or text. Sign up here.
Residents can 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 follow the @hfxgov Twitter account for updates and information during severe weather events.
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Via HSAR – In advance of the #NSStorm, HSAR has been requested by Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency Emergency Management to assist by checking wooded areas for individuals. Searchers plus our light vehicles will be responding to the request to help keep our homeless community members safe.
