swamprat

@swamprat

I received this while I was at work but my phone was about dead.

Hurricane Irma Local Statement Advisory Number 36

National Weather Service Tampa Bay Ruskin FL AL112017

1248 AM EDT Fri Sep 8 2017

This product covers West Central and Southwest Florida

**POWERFUL MAJOR HURRICANE IRMA CONTINUES TO MOVE TOWARDS FLORIDA**

NEW INFORMATION

---------------

* CHANGES TO WATCHES AND WARNINGS:

- A Hurricane Watch has been issued for Coastal Manatee, DeSoto,

Hardee, Highlands, Inland Charlotte, Inland Lee, Inland

Manatee, and Inland Sarasota

- A Storm Surge Watch and Hurricane Watch have been issued for

Coastal Charlotte, Coastal Lee, and Coastal Sarasota

* CURRENT WATCHES AND WARNINGS:

- A Hurricane Watch is in effect for Coastal Manatee, DeSoto,

Hardee, Highlands, Inland Charlotte, Inland Lee, Inland

Manatee, and Inland Sarasota

- A Storm Surge Watch and Hurricane Watch are in effect for

Coastal Charlotte, Coastal Lee, and Coastal Sarasota

* STORM INFORMATION:

- About 700 miles east-southeast of Fort Myers FL

- 21.3N 72.4W

- Storm Intensity 165 mph

- Movement West-northwest or 290 degrees at 16 mph

SITUATION OVERVIEW

------------------

Major Hurricane Irma continues moving west northwest as it approaches the

southeastern Bahamas tonight, before impacting west central and southwest

Florida late Saturday and into early Monday. The primary concerns at this

time are the potential for destructive winds and life-threatening storm surge.

The main window of concern for Hurricane Irma impacts is late Saturday night

through Monday afternoon.

POTENTIAL IMPACTS

-----------------

* WIND:

Prepare for life-threatening wind having possible devastating impacts

across West Central and Southwest Florida. Potential impacts include:

- Structural damage to sturdy buildings, some with complete roof

and wall failures. Complete destruction of mobile homes. Damage

greatly accentuated by large airborne projectiles. Locations

may be uninhabitable for weeks or months.

- Numerous large trees snapped or uprooted along with fences and

roadway signs blown over.

- Many roads impassable from large debris, and more within urban

or heavily wooded places. Many bridges, causeways, and access

routes impassable.

- Widespread power and communications outages.

* SURGE:

Prepare for life-threatening surge having possible significant

impacts across coastal areas of Lee and Charlotte Counties. Potential

impacts in this area include:

- Areas of inundation with storm surge flooding accentuated by

waves. Damage to several buildings, mainly near the coast.

- Sections of near-shore escape routes and secondary roads become

weakened or washed out, especially in usually vulnerable low

spots.

- Major beach erosion with heavy surf breaching dunes. Strong and

numerous rip currents.

- Moderate damage to marinas, docks, boardwalks, and piers.

Several small craft broken away from moorings, especially in

unprotected anchorages.

Also, prepare for locally hazardous surge having possible limited

impacts across southern Sarasota County.

* FLOODING RAIN:

Prepare for locally hazardous rainfall flooding having possible

limited impacts across west central and southwest Florida. Potential

impacts include:

- Localized rainfall flooding may prompt a few evacuations.

- Rivers and tributaries may quickly rise with swifter currents.

Small streams, creeks, canals, and ditches may become swollen

and overflow in spots.

- Flood waters can enter a few structures, especially in usually

vulnerable spots. A few places where rapid ponding of water

occurs at underpasses, low-lying spots, and poor drainage

areas. Several storm drains and retention ponds become

near-full and begin to overflow. Some brief road and bridge

closures.

* TORNADOES:

Prepare for a tornado event having possible limited impacts across west

central and southwest Florida. Potential impacts include:

- The occurrence of isolated tornadoes can hinder the execution

of emergency plans during tropical events.

- A few places may experience tornado damage, along with power

and communications disruptions.

- Locations could realize roofs peeled off buildings, chimneys

toppled, mobile homes pushed off foundations or overturned,

large tree tops and branches snapped off, shallow-rooted trees

knocked over, moving vehicles blown off roads, and small boats

pulled from moorings.

Elsewhere across West Central and Southwest Florida, little to no

impact is anticipated.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS

----------------------------------

* EVACUATIONS:

For those under evacuation orders, leave as soon as practical with a destination

in mind. Gas up your vehicle well ahead of time. Be sure that you take all

essential materials from your emergency supplies kit. Let others know where

you are going and when you intend to arrive.

For those not under evacuation orders, understand that there are inherent

risks to evacuation (such as traffic congestion, accidents, and driving in

bad weather), so evacuate only if necessary. Help keep roadways open for

those that are under evacuation orders.

If you are exceptionally vulnerable to wind or water hazards from tropical

systems, consider voluntary evacuation, especially if being officially

recommended. Relocate to a predetermined shelter or safe destination.

* OTHER PREPAREDNESS INFORMATION:

Now is the time to check your emergency plan and take necessary

actions to secure your home or business. Deliberate efforts should be

underway to protect life and property. Ensure that your Emergency

Supplies Kit is stocked and ready.

When making safety and preparedness decisions, do not focus on the

exact forecast track as there are inherent forecast uncertainties

which must be taken into account.

If you live in a place that is particularly vulnerable to high wind,

such as a mobile home, an upper floor of a high rise building, or on

a boat, plan to move to safe shelter. Take enough supplies for you

and your family for several days.

Always heed the advice of local officials and comply with any orders

that are issued. Do not needlessly jeopardize your life or the lives

of others.

When securing your property, outside preparations should be conducted

as soon as possible before conditions deteriorate. The onset of

strong gusty winds and heavy rain can cause certain preparedness

activities to become unsafe.

Hurricane Irma Local Statement Advisory Number 37

National Weather Service Tampa Bay Ruskin FL AL112017

600 AM EDT Fri Sep 8 2017

This product covers West Central and Southwest Florida

**POWERFUL MAJOR HURRICANE IRMA CONTINUES TO MOVE TOWARDS FLORIDA**

NEW INFORMATION

---------------

* CHANGES TO WATCHES AND WARNINGS:

- None

* CURRENT WATCHES AND WARNINGS:

- A Hurricane Watch is in effect for Coastal Manatee, DeSoto,

Hardee, Highlands, Inland Charlotte, Inland Lee, Inland

Manatee, and Inland Sarasota

- A Storm Surge Watch and Hurricane Watch are in effect for

Coastal Charlotte, Coastal Lee, and Coastal Sarasota

* STORM INFORMATION:

- About 690 miles southeast of Mouth of Tampa Bay FL or about 610

miles east-southeast of Fort Myers FL

- 21.7N 73.8W

- Storm Intensity 155 mph

- Movement West-northwest or 285 degrees at 16 mph

SITUATION OVERVIEW

------------------

Major Hurricane Irma continues moving west northwest away from the

Turks and Caicos Islands toward the southeastern Bahamas this morning.

The core of the hurricane will then move between the north coast of

Cuba and the Bahamas during the next day or two, and be near the

Florida Keys and the southern Florida Peninsula Sunday morning. The

primary concerns at this time are the potential for destructive winds

and life-threatening storm surge. The main window of concern for

Hurricane Irma impacts across West Central and Southwest Florida is

Sunday through Monday afternoon.

POTENTIAL IMPACTS

-----------------

* WIND:

Prepare for life-threatening wind having possible devastating impacts

across West Central and Southwest Florida. Potential impacts include:

- Structural damage to sturdy buildings, some with complete roof

and wall failures. Complete destruction of mobile homes. Damage

greatly accentuated by large airborne projectiles. Locations

may be uninhabitable for weeks or months.

- Numerous large trees snapped or uprooted along with fences and

roadway signs blown over.

- Many roads impassable from large debris, and more within urban

or heavily wooded places. Many bridges, causeways, and access

routes impassable.

- Widespread power and communications outages.

* SURGE:

Prepare for life-threatening surge having possible significant impacts

across coastal areas of Lee and Charlotte Counties. Potential impacts

in this area include:

- Areas of inundation with storm surge flooding accentuated by

waves. Damage to several buildings, mainly near the coast.

- Sections of near-shore escape routes and secondary roads become

weakened or washed out, especially in usually vulnerable low

spots.

- Major beach erosion with heavy surf breaching dunes. Strong and

numerous rip currents.

- Moderate damage to marinas, docks, boardwalks, and piers.

Several small craft broken away from moorings, especially in

unprotected anchorages.

Also, prepare for locally hazardous surge having possible limited

impacts across southern Sarasota county.

* FLOODING RAIN:

Prepare for dangerous rainfall flooding having possible significant

impacts across West Central and Southwest Florida. Potential impacts

include:

- Moderate risk of flooding due to heavy rainfall may prompt

several evacuations and rescues.

- Rivers and tributaries may quickly become swollen with swifter

currents and overspill their banks in a few places, especially

in usually vulnerable spots. Small streams, creeks, canals, and

ditches overflow.

- Flood waters can enter some structures or weaken foundations.

Several places may experience expanded areas of rapid

inundation at underpasses, low-lying spots, and poor drainage

areas. Some streets and parking lots take on moving water as

storm drains and retention ponds overflow. Driving conditions

become hazardous. Some road and bridge closures.

* TORNADOES:

Prepare for a tornado event having possible limited impacts across

West Central and Southwest Florida. Potential impacts include:

- The occurrence of isolated tornadoes can hinder the execution

of emergency plans during tropical events.

- A few places may experience tornado damage, along with power

and communications disruptions.

- Locations could realize roofs peeled off buildings, chimneys

toppled, mobile homes pushed off foundations or overturned,

large tree tops and branches snapped off, shallow-rooted trees

knocked over, moving vehicles blown off roads, and small boats

pulled from moorings.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS

----------------------------------

* EVACUATIONS:

For those under evacuation orders, leave as soon as practical with a

destination in mind. Gas up your vehicle well ahead of time. Be sure

that you take all essential materials from your emergency supplies kit.

Let others know where you are going and when you intend to arrive.

If evacuating the area, stick to prescribed evacuation routes. Look

for additional traffic information on roadway smart signs and listen to

select radio channels for further travel instructions. Drivers should

not use cell phones while operating vehicles.

For those not under evacuation orders, understand that there are

inherent risks to evacuation (such as traffic congestion, accidents,

and driving in bad weather), so evacuate only if necessary. Help keep

roadways open for those that are under evacuation orders.

If you are exceptionally vulnerable to wind or water hazards from

tropical systems, consider voluntary evacuation, especially if being

officially recommended. Relocate to a predetermined shelter or safe

destination.

If evacuating away from the area or relocating to a nearby shelter,

leave early before weather conditions become hazardous.

Pinellas County: Pinellas County Florida - Emergency Bulletins Page

* OTHER PREPAREDNESS INFORMATION:

Now is the time to check your emergency plan and take necessary

actions to secure your home or business. Deliberate efforts should be

underway to protect life and property. Ensure that your Emergency

Supplies Kit is stocked and ready.

When making safety and preparedness decisions, do not focus on the

exact forecast track as there are inherent forecast uncertainties

which must be taken into account.

If you live in a place that is particularly vulnerable to high wind,

such as a mobile home, an upper floor of a high rise building, or on

a boat, plan to move to safe shelter. Take enough supplies for you

and your family for several days.

If you live in a place particularly vulnerable to flooding, such as

near the ocean or a large inland lake, in a low lying or poor

drainage area, or near an already swollen river, plan to move to safe

shelter on higher ground

Always heed the advice of local officials and comply with any orders

that are issued. Do not needlessly jeopardize your life or the lives

of others.

When securing your property, outside preparations should be conducted

as soon as possible before conditions deteriorate. The onset of

strong gusty winds and heavy rain can cause certain preparedness

activities to become unsafe.

Be sure to let friends and other family members know of your

intentions and whereabouts for surviving the storm. For emergency

purposes, have someone located away from the threatened area serve as

your point of contact. Share vital contact information with others.

Keep cell phones handy and well charged.

Be a Good Samaritan and check on those who may not be fully aware of

the situation or who are unable to make personal preparations.

Visitors to the area should become familiar with nearby surroundings.

If you are a visitor, know the name of the county or parish in which

you are located and where it is relative to current watches and

warnings. If staying at a hotel, ask the management staff about their

onsite disaster plan. Listen for evacuation orders, especially

pertaining to area visitors.

Closely monitor NOAA Weather Radio or other local news outlets for

official storm information. Listen for possible changes to the

forecast.

* ADDITIONAL SOURCES OF INFORMATION:

- For information on appropriate preparations see ready.gov

- For information on creating an emergency plan see getagameplan.org

- For additional disaster preparedness information see redcross.org

Hurricane Irma Local Statement Advisory Number 38

National Weather Service Tampa Bay Ruskin FL AL112017

1143 AM EDT Fri Sep 8 2017

This product covers West Central and Southwest Florida

**POWERFUL MAJOR HURRICANE IRMA CONTINUES TO MOVE TOWARDS FLORIDA**

NEW INFORMATION

---------------

* CHANGES TO WATCHES AND WARNINGS:

- A Storm Surge Warning has been issued for Inland Lee

- A Hurricane Watch has been issued for Coastal Hillsborough,

Inland Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Polk

- The Storm Surge Watch has been upgraded to a Storm Surge

Warning for Coastal Charlotte, Coastal Lee, and Coastal Sarasota

* CURRENT WATCHES AND WARNINGS:

- A Hurricane Watch is in effect for Coastal Hillsborough,

Coastal Manatee, DeSoto, Hardee, Highlands, Inland Charlotte,

Inland Hillsborough, Inland Manatee, Inland Sarasota, Pinellas,

and Polk

- A Storm Surge Warning and Hurricane Watch are in effect for

Coastal Charlotte, Coastal Lee, Coastal Sarasota, and Inland Lee

* STORM INFORMATION:

- About 610 miles southeast of Mouth of Tampa Bay FL or about 520

miles southeast of Fort Myers FL

- 22.0N 75.3W

- Storm Intensity 150 mph

- Movement West-northwest or 285 degrees at 14 mph

SITUATION OVERVIEW

------------------

Irma is moving toward the west-northwest near 14 mph, and this motion

is expected to continue for the next day or so with a decrease in

forward speed. A turn toward the northwest is expected by late

Saturday. On the forecast track, the eye of Irma should move near the

north coast of Cuba and the central Bahamas today and Saturday, and be

near the Florida Keys and the southern Florida Peninsula Sunday morning.

POTENTIAL IMPACTS

-----------------

* WIND:

Prepare for life-threatening wind having possible devastating impacts

across West Central and Southwest Florida. Potential impacts include:

- Structural damage to sturdy buildings, some with complete roof

and wall failures. Complete destruction of mobile homes. Damage

greatly accentuated by large airborne projectiles. Locations

may be uninhabitable for weeks or months.

- Numerous large trees snapped or uprooted along with fences and

roadway signs blown over.

- Many roads impassable from large debris, and more within urban

or heavily wooded places. Many bridges, causeways, and access

routes impassable.

- Widespread power and communications outages.

* SURGE:

Prepare for life-threatening surge having possible significant impacts

across Sarasota, Charlotte and Lee Counties. Potential impacts in this

area include:

- Areas of inundation with storm surge flooding accentuated by

waves. Damage to several buildings, mainly near the coast.

- Sections of near-shore escape routes and secondary roads become

weakened or washed out, especially in usually vulnerable low

spots.

- Major beach erosion with heavy surf breaching dunes. Strong and

numerous rip currents.

- Moderate damage to marinas, docks, boardwalks, and piers.

Several small craft broken away from moorings, especially in

unprotected anchorages.

* FLOODING RAIN:

Prepare for dangerous rainfall flooding having possible significant

impacts across West Central and Southwest Florida. Potential impacts

include:

- Moderate risk of flooding due to heavy rainfall may prompt

several evacuations and rescues.

- Rivers and tributaries may quickly become swollen with swifter

currents and overspill their banks in a few places, especially

in usually vulnerable spots. Small streams, creeks, canals, and

ditches overflow.

- Flood waters can enter some structures or weaken foundations.

Several places may experience expanded areas of rapid

inundation at underpasses, low-lying spots, and poor drainage

areas. Some streets and parking lots take on moving water as

storm drains and retention ponds overflow. Driving conditions

become hazardous. Some road and bridge closures.

* TORNADOES:

Prepare for a tornado event having possible limited impacts across

West Central and Southwest Florida. Potential impacts include:

- The occurrence of isolated tornadoes can hinder the execution

of emergency plans during tropical events.

- A few places may experience tornado damage, along with power

and communications disruptions.

- Locations could realize roofs peeled off buildings, chimneys

toppled, mobile homes pushed off foundations or overturned,

large tree tops and branches snapped off, shallow-rooted trees

knocked over, moving vehicles blown off roads, and small boats

pulled from moorings.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS

----------------------------------

* EVACUATIONS:

For those under evacuation orders, leave as soon as practical with a

destination in mind. Gas up your vehicle well ahead of time. Be sure

that you take all essential materials from your emergency supplies kit.

Let others know where you are going and when you intend to arrive.

If evacuating the area, stick to prescribed evacuation routes. Look

for additional traffic information on roadway smart signs and listen to

select radio channels for further travel instructions. Drivers should

not use cell phones while operating vehicles.

For those not under evacuation orders, understand that there are

inherent risks to evacuation (such as traffic congestion, accidents,

and driving in bad weather), so evacuate only if necessary. Help keep

roadways open for those that are under evacuation orders.

If you are exceptionally vulnerable to wind or water hazards from

tropical systems, consider voluntary evacuation, especially if being

officially recommended. Relocate to a predetermined shelter or safe

destination.

If evacuating away from the area or relocating to a nearby shelter,

leave early before weather conditions become hazardous.

Pinellas County: Pinellas County Government Home Page

Hillsborough County: http://www.hillsboroughcounty.org

Polk County: http://www.polk-county.net

Manatee County: Home

Hardee County: Welcome

Desoto County: http://www.desotobocc.com

Sarasota County: http://www.scgov.net

Highlands County: http://www.hcbcc.net

Charlotte County: http://www.charlottecountyfl.gov

Lee County: http://www.leegov.com

* OTHER PREPAREDNESS INFORMATION:

Now is the time to check your emergency plan and take necessary

actions to secure your home or business. Deliberate efforts should be

underway to protect life and property. Ensure that your Emergency

Supplies Kit is stocked and ready.

When making safety and preparedness decisions, do not focus on the

exact forecast track as there are inherent forecast uncertainties

which must be taken into account.

If you live in a place that is particularly vulnerable to high wind,

such as a mobile home, an upper floor of a high rise building, or on

a boat, plan to move to safe shelter. Take enough supplies for you

and your family for several days.

If you live in a place particularly vulnerable to flooding, such as

near the ocean or a large inland lake, in a low lying or poor

drainage area, or near an already swollen river, plan to move to safe

shelter on higher ground

Always heed the advice of local officials and comply with any orders

that are issued. Do not needlessly jeopardize your life or the lives

of others.

When securing your property, outside preparations should be conducted

as soon as possible before conditions deteriorate. The onset of

strong gusty winds and heavy rain can cause certain preparedness

activities to become unsafe.

Be sure to let friends and other family members know of your

intentions and whereabouts for surviving the storm. For emergency

purposes, have someone located away from the threatened area serve as

your point of contact. Share vital contact information with others.

Keep cell phones handy and well charged.

Be a Good Samaritan and check on those who may not be fully aware of

the situation or who are unable to make personal preparations.

Visitors to the area should become familiar with nearby surroundings.

If you are a visitor, know the name of the county or parish in which

you are located and where it is relative to current watches and

warnings. If staying at a hotel, ask the management staff about their

onsite disaster plan. Listen for evacuation orders, especially

pertaining to area visitors.

Closely monitor NOAA Weather Radio or other local news outlets for

official storm information. Listen for possible changes to the

forecast.

* ADDITIONAL SOURCES OF INFORMATION:

- For information on appropriate preparations see ready.gov

- For information on creating an emergency plan see getagameplan.org

- For additional disaster preparedness information see redcross.org

NEXT UPDATE

-----------

The next local statement will be issued by the National Weather

Service in Tampa Bay Ruskin FL around 6 PM, or sooner if conditions

warrant.

Hurricane Irma Local Statement Advisory Number 38

National Weather Service Tampa Bay Ruskin FL AL112017

1143 AM EDT Fri Sep 8 2017

This product covers West Central and Southwest Florida

**POWERFUL MAJOR HURRICANE IRMA CONTINUES TO MOVE TOWARDS FLORIDA**

NEW INFORMATION

---------------

* CHANGES TO WATCHES AND WARNINGS:

- A Storm Surge Warning has been issued for Inland Lee

- A Hurricane Watch has been issued for Coastal Hillsborough,

Inland Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Polk

- The Storm Surge Watch has been upgraded to a Storm Surge

Warning for Coastal Charlotte, Coastal Lee, and Coastal Sarasota

* CURRENT WATCHES AND WARNINGS:

- A Hurricane Watch is in effect for Coastal Hillsborough,

Coastal Manatee, DeSoto, Hardee, Highlands, Inland Charlotte,

Inland Hillsborough, Inland Manatee, Inland Sarasota, Pinellas,

and Polk

- A Storm Surge Warning and Hurricane Watch are in effect for

Coastal Charlotte, Coastal Lee, Coastal Sarasota, and Inland Lee

* STORM INFORMATION:

- About 610 miles southeast of Mouth of Tampa Bay FL or about 520

miles southeast of Fort Myers FL

- 22.0N 75.3W

- Storm Intensity 150 mph

- Movement West-northwest or 285 degrees at 14 mph

SITUATION OVERVIEW

------------------

Irma is moving toward the west-northwest near 14 mph, and this motion

is expected to continue for the next day or so with a decrease in

forward speed. A turn toward the northwest is expected by late

Saturday. On the forecast track, the eye of Irma should move near the

north coast of Cuba and the central Bahamas today and Saturday, and be

near the Florida Keys and the southern Florida Peninsula Sunday morning.

POTENTIAL IMPACTS

-----------------

* WIND:

Prepare for life-threatening wind having possible devastating impacts

across West Central and Southwest Florida. Potential impacts include:

- Structural damage to sturdy buildings, some with complete roof

and wall failures. Complete destruction of mobile homes. Damage

greatly accentuated by large airborne projectiles. Locations

may be uninhabitable for weeks or months.

- Numerous large trees snapped or uprooted along with fences and

roadway signs blown over.

- Many roads impassable from large debris, and more within urban

or heavily wooded places. Many bridges, causeways, and access

routes impassable.

- Widespread power and communications outages.

* SURGE:

Prepare for life-threatening surge having possible significant impacts

across Sarasota, Charlotte and Lee Counties. Potential impacts in this

area include:

- Areas of inundation with storm surge flooding accentuated by

waves. Damage to several buildings, mainly near the coast.

- Sections of near-shore escape routes and secondary roads become

weakened or washed out, especially in usually vulnerable low

spots.

- Major beach erosion with heavy surf breaching dunes. Strong and

numerous rip currents.

- Moderate damage to marinas, docks, boardwalks, and piers.

Several small craft broken away from moorings, especially in

unprotected anchorages.

* FLOODING RAIN:

Prepare for dangerous rainfall flooding having possible significant

impacts across West Central and Southwest Florida. Potential impacts

include:

- Moderate risk of flooding due to heavy rainfall may prompt

several evacuations and rescues.

- Rivers and tributaries may quickly become swollen with swifter

currents and overspill their banks in a few places, especially

in usually vulnerable spots. Small streams, creeks, canals, and

ditches overflow.

- Flood waters can enter some structures or weaken foundations.

Several places may experience expanded areas of rapid

inundation at underpasses, low-lying spots, and poor drainage

areas. Some streets and parking lots take on moving water as

storm drains and retention ponds overflow. Driving conditions

become hazardous. Some road and bridge closures.

* TORNADOES:

Prepare for a tornado event having possible limited impacts across

West Central and Southwest Florida. Potential impacts include:

- The occurrence of isolated tornadoes can hinder the execution

of emergency plans during tropical events.

- A few places may experience tornado damage, along with power

and communications disruptions.

- Locations could realize roofs peeled off buildings, chimneys

toppled, mobile homes pushed off foundations or overturned,

large tree tops and branches snapped off, shallow-rooted trees

knocked over, moving vehicles blown off roads, and small boats

pulled from moorings.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS

----------------------------------

* EVACUATIONS:

For those under evacuation orders, leave as soon as practical with a

destination in mind. Gas up your vehicle well ahead of time. Be sure

that you take all essential materials from your emergency supplies kit.

Let others know where you are going and when you intend to arrive.

If evacuating the area, stick to prescribed evacuation routes. Look

for additional traffic information on roadway smart signs and listen to

select radio channels for further travel instructions. Drivers should

not use cell phones while operating vehicles.

For those not under evacuation orders, understand that there are

inherent risks to evacuation (such as traffic congestion, accidents,

and driving in bad weather), so evacuate only if necessary. Help keep

roadways open for those that are under evacuation orders.

If you are exceptionally vulnerable to wind or water hazards from

tropical systems, consider voluntary evacuation, especially if being

officially recommended. Relocate to a predetermined shelter or safe

destination.

If evacuating away from the area or relocating to a nearby shelter,

leave early before weather conditions become hazardous.

Pinellas County: Pinellas County Government Home Page

Hillsborough County: http://www.hillsboroughcounty.org

Polk County: http://www.polk-county.net

Manatee County: Home

Hardee County: Welcome

Desoto County: http://www.desotobocc.com

Sarasota County: http://www.scgov.net

Highlands County: http://www.hcbcc.net

Charlotte County: http://www.charlottecountyfl.gov

Lee County: http://www.leegov.com

* OTHER PREPAREDNESS INFORMATION:

Now is the time to check your emergency plan and take necessary

actions to secure your home or business. Deliberate efforts should be

underway to protect life and property. Ensure that your Emergency

Supplies Kit is stocked and ready.

When making safety and preparedness decisions, do not focus on the

exact forecast track as there are inherent forecast uncertainties

which must be taken into account.

If you live in a place that is particularly vulnerable to high wind,

such as a mobile home, an upper floor of a high rise building, or on

a boat, plan to move to safe shelter. Take enough supplies for you

and your family for several days.

If you live in a place particularly vulnerable to flooding, such as

near the ocean or a large inland lake, in a low lying or poor

drainage area, or near an already swollen river, plan to move to safe

shelter on higher ground

Always heed the advice of local officials and comply with any orders

that are issued. Do not needlessly jeopardize your life or the lives

of others.

When securing your property, outside preparations should be conducted

as soon as possible before conditions deteriorate. The onset of

strong gusty winds and heavy rain can cause certain preparedness

activities to become unsafe.

Be sure to let friends and other family members know of your

intentions and whereabouts for surviving the storm. For emergency

purposes, have someone located away from the threatened area serve as

your point of contact. Share vital contact information with others.

Keep cell phones handy and well charged.

Be a Good Samaritan and check on those who may not be fully aware of

the situation or who are unable to make personal preparations.

Visitors to the area should become familiar with nearby surroundings.

If you are a visitor, know the name of the county or parish in which

you are located and where it is relative to current watches and

warnings. If staying at a hotel, ask the management staff about their

onsite disaster plan. Listen for evacuation orders, especially

pertaining to area visitors.

Closely monitor NOAA Weather Radio or other local news outlets for

official storm information. Listen for possible changes to the

forecast.

* ADDITIONAL SOURCES OF INFORMATION:

- For information on appropriate preparations see ready.gov

- For information on creating an emergency plan see getagameplan.org

- For additional disaster preparedness information see redcross.org

NEXT UPDATE

-----------

The next local statement will be issued by the National Weather

Service in Tampa Bay Ruskin FL around 6 PM, or sooner if conditions

warrant.

Thanks, @nWo. Has anyone heard from @coldweatherfan? I assume he was up there and intended to come down this week, or early next, to go to the Illinois/USF game on the 15th. Where his home is in Pinellas County is under a mandatory evacuation.

I haven't seen him post anything lately.

@swamprat

645 PM EDT Fri Sep 8 2017

...STORM SURGE WATCH IN EFFECT...

...HURRICANE WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT...

A Storm Surge Watch means life-threatening inundation levels are

possible somewhere within this area and within the next 48 hours

* LOCATIONS AFFECTED

- Tampa

- Apollo Beach

- Westchase

* WIND

- LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Equivalent Cat 2 Hurricane force wind

- Peak Wind Forecast: 80-100 mph with gusts to 90 mph

- Window for Tropical Storm force winds: Sunday afternoon

until Monday afternoon

- Window for Hurricane force winds: Sunday evening until

early Monday morning

- CURRENT THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY: Extreme

- The wind threat has increased from the previous assessment.

- Emergency planning should include a reasonable threat for

major hurricane force wind greater than 110 mph of

equivalent Category 3 intensity or higher.

- To be safe, aggressively prepare for the potential of

devastating to catastrophic wind impacts. Efforts should

now be underway to secure all properties.

- Extremely dangerous and life-threatening wind is possible.

Failure to adequately shelter may result in serious injury,

loss of life, or immense human suffering.

- POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Devastating to Catastrophic

- Structural damage to sturdy buildings, some with complete

roof and wall failures. Complete destruction of mobile

homes. Damage greatly accentuated by large airborne

projectiles. Locations may be uninhabitable for weeks or

months.

- Numerous large trees snapped or uprooted along with fences

and roadway signs blown over.

- Many roads impassable from large debris, and more within

urban or heavily wooded places. Many bridges, causeways,

and access routes impassable.

- Widespread power and communications outages.

* STORM SURGE

- LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Life-threatening storm surge possible

- Peak Storm Surge Inundation: The potential for 2-4 feet

above ground somewhere within surge prone areas

- Window of concern: early Sunday evening until early Monday

afternoon

- CURRENT THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY: Moderate

- The storm surge threat has remained nearly steady from the

previous assessment.

- Emergency planning should include a reasonable threat for

dangerous storm surge flooding of greater than 3 feet above

ground.

- To be safe, earnestly prepare for the potential of

significant storm surge flooding impacts. Evacuation

efforts should now be underway.

- Life-threatening inundation is possible. Failure to heed

evacuation orders may result in serious injury or loss of

life. Leave if evacuation orders are given for your area.

Consider voluntary evacuation if recommended. Poor

decisions may needlessly risk lives.

- POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Significant

- Areas of inundation with storm surge flooding accentuated

by waves. Damage to several buildings, mainly near the

coast.

- Sections of near-shore escape routes and secondary roads

become weakened or washed out, especially in usually

vulnerable low spots.

- Major beach erosion with heavy surf breaching dunes. Strong

and numerous rip currents.

- Moderate damage to marinas, docks, boardwalks, and piers.

Several small craft broken away from moorings, especially

in unprotected anchorages.

* FLOODING RAIN

- LATEST LOCAL FORECAST:

- Peak Rainfall Amounts: Additional 4-8 inches, with locally

higher amounts

- CURRENT THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY: Moderate

- The flooding rain threat has increased from the previous

assessment.

- Emergency planning should include a reasonable threat for

moderate flooding where peak rainfall totals notably exceed

amounts conducive for flash flooding and rapid inundation.

Rescues and emergency evacuations are possible.

- To be safe, earnestly prepare for the potential of

significant flooding rain impacts.

- Dangerous flooding is possible. Failure to take action may

result in serious injury or loss of life. If flood related

watches and warnings are issued, heed recommended actions.

- POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Significant

- Moderate rainfall flooding may prompt several evacuations

and rescues.

- Rivers and tributaries may quickly become swollen with

swifter currents and overspill their banks in a few places,

especially in usually vulnerable spots. Small streams,

creeks, canals, and ditches overflow.

- Flood waters can enter some structures or weaken

foundations. Several places may experience expanded areas

of rapid inundation at underpasses, low-lying spots, and

poor drainage areas. Some streets and parking lots take on

moving water as storm drains and retention ponds overflow.

Driving conditions become hazardous. Some road and bridge

closures.

* TORNADO

- LATEST LOCAL FORECAST:

- Situation is favorable for tornadoes

- CURRENT THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY: Moderate

- The tornado threat has increased from the previous

assessment.

- Emergency planning should include a reasonable threat for

scattered tornadoes, with a few possibly strong in

intensity.

- To be safe, earnestly prepare for the potential of

significant tornado impacts.

- Listen for tornado watches and warnings. Be ready to

shelter quickly if a tornado approaches.

- POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Significant

- The occurrence of scattered tornadoes can hinder the

execution of emergency plans during tropical events.

- Several places may experience tornado damage with a few

spots of considerable damage, power loss, and

communications failures.

- Locations could realize roofs torn off frame houses, mobile

homes demolished, boxcars overturned, large trees snapped

or uprooted, vehicles tumbled, and small boats tossed

about. Dangerous projectiles can add to the toll.

Hurricane Irma Local Statement Advisory Number 39

National Weather Service Tampa Bay Ruskin FL AL112017

708 PM EDT Fri Sep 8 2017

This product covers West Central and Southwest Florida

..HURRICANE AND STORM SURGE WATCHES AND WARNINGS EXTENDED

NORTHWARD ALONG THE FLORIDA PENINSULA...

NEW INFORMATION

---------------

* CHANGES TO WATCHES AND WARNINGS:

- A Hurricane Watch has been issued for Coastal Citrus, Coastal

Hernando, Coastal Levy, Coastal Pasco, Inland Citrus, Inland

Hernando, Inland Levy, Inland Pasco, and Sumter

- A Storm Surge Watch has been issued for Coastal Hillsborough

and Pinellas

- The Hurricane Watch has been upgraded to a Hurricane Warning

and a Storm Surge Watch have been issued for Coastal Manatee

- The Hurricane Watch has been upgraded to a Hurricane Warning

for Coastal Charlotte, Coastal Lee, Coastal Sarasota, DeSoto,

Hardee, Highlands, Inland Charlotte, Inland Lee, Inland

Manatee, and Inland Sarasota

* CURRENT WATCHES AND WARNINGS:

- A Hurricane Watch is in effect for Coastal Citrus, Coastal

Hernando, Coastal Levy, Coastal Pasco, Inland Citrus, Inland

Hernando, Inland Hillsborough, Inland Levy, Inland Pasco, Polk,

and Sumter

- A Hurricane Warning and Storm Surge Watch are in effect for

Coastal Manatee

- A Hurricane Warning is in effect for DeSoto, Hardee, Highlands,

Inland Charlotte, Inland Manatee, and Inland Sarasota

- A Storm Surge Watch and Hurricane Watch are in effect for

Coastal Hillsborough and Pinellas

- A Storm Surge Warning and Hurricane Warning are in effect for

Coastal Charlotte, Coastal Lee, Coastal Sarasota, and Inland Lee

* STORM INFORMATION:

- About 540 miles southeast of Mouth of Tampa Bay FL or about 460

miles southeast of Fort Myers FL

- 22.1N 76.5W

- Storm Intensity 155 mph

- Movement West or 280 degrees at 12 mph

Thanks, @nWo. Has anyone heard from @coldweatherfan? I assume he was up there and intended to come down this week, or early next, to go to the Illinois/USF game on the 15th. Where his home is in Pinellas County is under a mandatory evacuation.

Everryrhing is as protected as it can be.

Prepared for the worst, praying for the best.

Everryrhing is as protected as it can be.

 

Prepared for the worst, praying for the best.

Prayers from my family to yours.