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Storm
Incident Information
(up-dated
1May 2008)
Island
County Weather continues to be highly variable with lower than
average seasonal temperatures and strong winds. The possibility
of wet-slippery roadways with wind-blown material on road surfaces
remains. Drive defensively and allow for greater stopping
distances.
Island
County residents should still be prepared for storms and stay
informed of the local weather/tide forecasts. A link to
the National Weather Service 7 day forecast can be found below.
CARBON
MONOXIDE KILLS
Do
not operate generators, gas, or charcoal grills inside a house,
business, or in a connected garage.
ISLAND
COUNTY DAMAGE REPORTING
For instructions and
information about reporting storm or other damage to private property
go to the following link:
"Reporting
Damage"
If you need help with this process, please contact the Island
County DEM at 360-679-7370 or dem@co.island.wa.us
National
Weather Service -7 Day Forecast
Winter
Storm Awareness [Seasonal]
While
the winter extreme high tide period has ended. beach level residents
should still stay informed as to tide levels and weather influences.
Tide levels vary greatly by area - beach community residents should
check tide tables for their specific area. A good site for
tide prediction can be accessed at:
www.saltwatertides.com
All county residents should be alert for storm and high wind warnings.
Another good site for Island County weather stations can
be accessed at:
WSDOT
Weather
The
Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) web site
also has information relative to travel and transportation around
the state.
For
State Road Closure Information from any telephone dial 511 and
follow the directions. On the internet check the Washington State
Department of Transportation (WSDOT) web site at:
WSDOT
Weather Closure Updates
More
Storm Preparedness Tips
1.
Listen to the Seattle TV news programs, channels, and the local
radio stations. They will broadcast local alerts and road closures
as well as the traffic conditions. A very good collection
of storm preparedness topics can be found on the State Health
Department site go to: Weathering
Storms
2.
There are a number of web sites that can provide information on
the river conditions- (see the "links" page for more
information) one in particular is:
Advanced
Hydrologic Prediction Services
Skagit
River Flood Gauge
3.
Take care of your local drainage. Make sure street drains
and storm drains are clear of leaves and debris. Report
any culverts that are backed-up or areas where water is pooling
on roads. Watch banks and bluffs for indications of slumping
or sliding especially after a long period of rain.
4.
If you are in an area that has flooded before, start your preparations
to prevent flooding now. Again clean out drains, ditches,
and culverts. Purchase and fill sandbags in advance of an
emergency. Sandbags can be purchased locally a list of some
locations is at the following link. Where
to buy sandbags? [This
list does not constitute an endorsement by Island County,
but is provided only for information other sandbag vendors may
exist in the area].
5.
Be ready to leave if necessary. Collect and organize Know
where your important papers and valuable now. check insurance
coverage and conditions. Do you have flood insurance? Should
you?
6.
Be a good neighbor. Be aware of those in your neighborhood
who may depend on others for meals and transport. Make sure
they are being cared for.
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