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Now is the time to prepare for Hurricane Florence

Cape Region could experience strong winds, inches of rain later this week
September 10, 2018

It’s hurricane season, and as of press deadline Sept. 10, it appears the Cape Region could feel the effects of Hurricane Florence in the coming days.

The National Hurricane Center said Hurricane Florence was a category 3 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 115 mph. The hurricane was located southeast of Bermuda, moving west at 13 mph, and expected to make landfall near the Carolinas late Thursday evening or early Friday morning.

As of deadline, the National Weather Service had not issued any hazardous weather outlook for the Cape Region, saying only Hurricane Florence could impact the area later this week and to continue monitoring the latest forecasts from the National Hurricane Center.

In a press release Sept. 9, Gov. John Carney said the state has begun to coordinate with local partners, Federal Emergency Management Agency and authorities in surrounding states. He said Delawareans and visitors should be prepared.

“It is still too early to tell what impact Delaware will experience, but it is never too early to plan and ensure you are prepared,” he said. He recommended going to preparede.org for tips and local forecasts.

In a press release Sept. 9, the Coast Guard asked mariners to heed evacuation orders and follow a few tips to protect themselves, their families and their vessels:

• Do not go out to sea in a recreational boat if you know a tropical storm or hurricane is approaching.

• People in distress should use 911 to request assistance whenever possible.

• Contact local marinas to ask for advice about securing your vessel. Information on how to prepare your boat or trailer for a hurricane can be found at the Coast Guard's Storm Center webpage.

• Take action now. The effects of a tropical storm/hurricane can be felt well in advance of the storm itself and can prevent the safe completion of preparations.

• Storms move quickly and are unpredictable. The Coast Guard said a person can not be replaced, but a boat always can be.

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