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Tropical Storm Flossie: Potential for torrential rains Monday (UPDATED 9 p.m. Friday, July 26)

(Image courtesy of NOAA)

(Image courtesy of NOAA)

Hawaii 24/7 Staff

The National Weather Service has forecast possible torrential rainfall, thunder storms, high winds and big surf from Tropical Storm (TS) Flossie.

TS Flossie is expected to impact the Big Island as early as Monday, July 29.

TS Flossie, which is currently about 1,395 miles east of Hilo, Hawaii, is expected to weaken in intensity but could still produce heavy rain and possible flooding in some parts of the state.

The storm has maximum sustained winds of 60 mph with higher gusts. Tropical storm force winds extend 70 miles from the center of the storm. Flossie is moving west-northwest at 18 mph.

There is a 5 percent chance it could reach hurricane strength Friday, although forecasters expect it will have weakened to a tropical storm or tropical depression by Monday night.

There are currently no watches or warnings in effect, however authorities may issue a flash flood watch or warning over the weekend.

Residents should be alert to Flash Flood Watches and Warnings because flooding may occur rapidly and threaten life and property. Ground saturation caused by the heavy showers increase the danger of flash floods, mudslides, and rockslides.

State Civil Defense reminds residents and visitors to take appropriate precautions. Be aware of dangers such as streams and other areas prone to flooding and mudslides.

If there is the possibility of flooding, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions.

Meanwhile, the Coast Guard is urging Big Island boaters and residents to start planning for TS Flossie’s arrival.

The Coast Guard urges mariners to remember:

* To monitor the progress and strength of the storm through newspapers, the Internet and local broadcast stations. Boaters can monitor VHF channel 16 for storm updates and for small craft advisories and warnings.

* To heed evacuation orders. Coast Guard personnel and other emergency responders may not be able to assist mariners in danger during a storm, officials said.

* To secure boats and boating equipment. “Owners of large boats are urged to move their vessels to protected marinas where they will be less likely to break free of their moorings or to be otherwise damaged,” Coast Guard officials said. “Trailerable boats should be pulled from the water and stored in a place that is not prone to flooding. Those mariners who leave their boats in the water are reminded to secure life rings, life jackets and tenders.”

* To be cautious of hazardous materials on or near the water. Take precautions to secure these materials prior to the storm’s arrival.

* To stay clear of beaches. The storm can cause strong waves and rip currents. Swimmers are urged to stay clear of beaches until local officials say the water is safe.

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The state Civil Defense reminders for a disaster preparedness kit:

When preparing a disaster preparedness kit, first plan for the essentials for survival. Think practical first, and think comfortable second. All essential needs should be able to fit in a 5 gallon bucket. Absolute necessities include food, water, and warmth.

Food

Foodstuffs should be high energy nonperishables and kept in sealed air-tight containers. Made-ready meals and canned goods are excellent choices for emergency food sources. It is safe to ration, the body can be maintained on half of your average caloric intake during an emergency. Provisions should include enough food supplies to last five to seven days for each family member.

Water

Water stored for drinking purposes should also be a supply suffient to last three days for each family member. Electrolyte-enhanced water and vitamins help to replace electrolytes and the fluids lost, in order to prevent dehydration and seizures. Consider having an equal amount of water handy on the side for sanitation purposes. Stored food and water should be cycled out every six months.

Warmth

The body can only subsist in a short range of temperatures. Keep warm in cold temperatures to prevent illness and hypothermia. Critical areas to keep dry and warm are the head, neck, chest, feet, and groin. Athletic clothing offers moderate environmental insulation without giving up the benefits of being easily attainable, affordable, lightweight, portable, and breathable. Mylar is an excellent lightweight and portable material that offers better thermal and environmental protection, but is not breathable and recommended for limited use only.

Other Needs

After considering your most basic needs, consider additional necessities to include in your emergency preparedness kit. When making additions to your family emergency kit, keep in mind that it should be easily transportable, accessible, and close to an exit of the building. Mobile emergency kits should be smaller, more personalized, and should be no bigger than a backpack or fanny pack. While you can never be too ready or too prepared, you do not want to over burden yourself when you need to be on the move.

— Find out more:
www.nhc.noaa.gov
www.floodsmart.gov

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