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News Release Archive

Virginia Department of Emergency Management
10501 Trade Court, Richmond, VA 23236

CONTACT:
Laura Southard (VDEM) -- (804) 897-6510

FOR RELEASE AT WILL - July 8, 2008

2008 Hurricane Season Produces First Hurricane

RICHMOND, VA – The National Weather Service's National Hurricane Center has upgraded Tropical Storm Bertha in the Atlantic to a hurricane. Bertha is not currently forecasted to strike the East Coast, but the projected path could turn, and Virginians should be prepared. Hurricane experts have predicted this year's hurricane season to have above-average tropical storm activity.

"We know the worst of the hurricane season is still ahead of us," said Michael Cline, state coordinator of the Virginia Department of Emergency Management. "The good news is that there is plenty of time to get ready, and all Virginians should do so now. Whether you live inland or near the coast, everyone should be aware of the risk and plan accordingly."

It does not take a major hurricane to cause problems in Virginia. Recent years have brought tropical storms that haven't reached hurricane force, yet they have caused many deaths and extensive damage both on the coast and inland.

There are three steps that every Virginian should take to prepare for hurricane season:

1. Get an emergency supply kit
   An emergency supply kit includes, among other things, essential items to last at least three days, such as a battery-powered radio, food and water, flashlights, a first aid kit, medications and extra batteries.
2. Make a family communication plan
   A communications plan involves discussing the hazards and threats for your area and what you would do during an actual emergency. Decide on a meeting place if your family cannot return home, designate an out-of-town friend or relative as a point-of-contact and plan for the specific needs of your household, such as an evacuation shelter for pets or transportation for medical equipment.
3. Stay informed about threats
   Before, during and after a disaster, it is important to listen for the most local, up-to-date information from emergency officials. Local media will give details about evacuation orders, how to safely stay where you are and when the emergency has passed.

In addition, coastal residents should review their family evacuation plan, become familiar with their designated evacuation routes and know where they will go if ordered to evacuate. Emergency officials have designated hurricane evacuation routes for people who live in the Hampton Roads area, the Eastern Shore and the Middle Peninsula.

Inland residents should know where to go if ordered to evacuate their area. Flash floods can develop in a matter of minutes, with little or no warning. Know ahead of time where you should go to find higher ground.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Climate Prediction Center forecast calls for a 65 percent chance of an above-normal season. It indicates a 60 to 70 percent chance of 12 to 16 named storms, including six to nine hurricanes and two to five major hurricanes.

For more preparedness tips, hurricane history and information about tropical storm classifications, visit VDEM's Web site at www.vaemergency.com.