Hurricane Sandy Update: Thursday, October 25, 2012 6:00 pm
Contact: Public Information, (850) 921-0217

AS HURRICANE SANDY MOVES NORTH, RAIN AND RIP CURRENTS GREATEST CONCERN FOR FLORIDIANS

TALLAHASSEE – Florida’s State Emergency Response Team reminds residents and visitors to remain cautious as Hurricane Sandy moves north from the Bahamas. Tropical storm warnings are still in effect for the Florida east coast from Ocean Reef to Flagler Beach and Lake Okeechobee. Tropical storm watches remain in effect for the Florida east coast from north of Flagler beach to Fernandina Beach and the Upper Keys from Ocean Reef to Craig Key, as well as Florida Bay. The State Emergency Operations Center in Tallahassee is currently operating at a level two - partial activation.

Hurricane Sandy is moving north at 20 mph and maximum sustained winds remain at 105 miles per hour, making Sandy a category two hurricane. Hurricane force winds extend up to 35 miles from the center of the storm and tropical storm force winds extend up to 205 miles outward. About one to three inches is expected across the Florida Keys into southeast and east-central Florida, with isolated amounts of six inches possible, according to the National Hurricane Center.

Dangerous rip currents are possible along the east coast due to Hurricane Sandy and residents and visitors should use an abundance of caution. Stay out of the water when beaches are closed and obey all beach warning flags. Follow safe boating practices by check the marine forecast well ahead of time and heeding all marine warnings and advisories.

Residents and visitors in the warning and watch areas should prepare for impacts as soon as possible with an emergency plan and disaster supply kit. Go to www.FloridaDisaster.org to learn what is needed for a family or business emergency plan and what to pack in your disaster supply kit. Take appropriate safety precautions before, during and after the storm, including:

- Heed all instructions from local officials and stay tuned to local media for developments.
- Watch for rip currents and follow beach warning flags. If you go to the beach, pay attention to the warning flags and do not swim if beaches are closed. Tropical storms and hurricanes increase the risk of dangerous rip currents.
- Turn Around, Don’t Drown. If you see a flooded roadway, turn around and take another route. Take your time when travelling.
- Listen for public announcements about the safety of the public water supply, and take action if a local boil water notice has been issued.
- Avoid standing water. Avoid contact with flood waters, especially if you have open cuts. Do not allow children to play in floodwater.
- Wash your hands. Stay as clean as possible by washing your hands with soap and water that has been boiled or disinfected.
- Avoid downed power lines. If you see a downed power line, assume it is live and contact the utility.
- Operate equipment only in safe conditions and if experienced in proper use.
- Be alert to wildlife that may have been displaced as a result of flooding.
- Do not eat any food that may have come into contact with contaminated water from floods or tidal surges.
- Drain standing water to prevent mosquito-borne illness from garbage cans, buckets, pool covers, coolers, toys, flowerpots or any other containers where sprinkler or rainwater has collected.
- Cover your skin with clothing and insect repellent.

The Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 – November 30. Visit www.FloridaDisaster.org to Get A Plan! For the latest information on the 2012 Hurricane Season, follow FDEM on Twitter at @FLSERT, on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/FloridaSERT and on Google+ at FLSERT.

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