In the
EYE 2017
Before and after the storm: What you need to know to keep your family and property safe
3757 Gulf Shores Parkway, Suite E, Gulf Shores
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Hurricane Preparedness
Living along the beautiful Gulf Coast, hurricanes are a part of life. You can’t prevent hurricanes, but you can prepare for them. To protect against the possible explosion of the building structure, caused by the increase of interior air pressure, protect all opening of your home or business against hurricane force winds, rain, and flying debris. Island Enclosures is a home improvement company that has a large showroom displaying a diverse selection of hurricane protection products.
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Inside Important numbers to keep handy in a storm Baldwin County Building Inspection Department: (251) 972-6837 Baldwin County Planning and Zoning Department: (251) 580-1655 Baldwin County Highway Department: (251) 9370371 Baldwin County Permitting (Subdivision) Division: (251) 937-0278 Baldwin County Emergency Management: (251) 972-6807 Community Rating System Program (CRS) Coordinator: (251) 5801655 ext. 7230
A specialty publication of Gulf Coast Media Publisher Parks Rogers parks@gulfcoastmedia.com 251-943-2151 Senior Features Editor Allison Marlow allisonm@gulfcoastmedia.com Editor Destiny Brown destiny@gulfcoastmedia.com
4 In the Eye â&#x20AC;˘ June 2017
Design Leigh Mitchell leigh@theitem.com
Frank Kustura frank@gulfcoastmedia.com 251-923-8129
Melanie Smith melanie@theitem.com
LouAnn Love louann@gulfcoastmedia.com 251-243-7620
Advertising Jeniece Bouzan jeniece@gulfcoastmedia.com 251-978-0497
Gulf Coast Media 901 N. McKenzie St., Foley, Al 36535 251-943-2151
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June 2017 • In the Eye 5
Predictions for the 2017 hurricane season By DESTINY BROWN destiny@gulfcoastmedia.com
Severe weather can be sudden and unexpected, but with hurricanes it is possible to predict the time and the severity of the storm before it hits. Having an idea of what to expect gives residents a plan of what to prepare for in worst case scenarios. Chris Dunn, chief meteorologist at Local 15 News, offers some insight into the expectations for the 2017 hurricane season. “Right now, conditions point towards an average to slightly below average hurricane season for the Atlantic Basin, which includes the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico,” Dunn said. “However, even in a ‘below average’ year, all it takes is one storm to have a significant impact on our area if it forms or tracks into the Gulf Coast. The state of hurricane activity forecasting has shown skill over climatology (averages over the years,) but it’s still very difficult to determine where those storms will form and track.” Dunn warns citizens to always be prepared no matter how calm the storm may seem. “We’d like everyone to operate under the assumption that it could happen this season and to always be prepared,” Dunn said. “We live in a hurricane-prone area. They have happened in the past and will in the future. It’s just a matter of when the next one will strike.” Hurricane climatology experts look at factors such as sea surface temperatures in tropical formation zones and long-term global weather 6 In the Eye • June 2017
factors such as El Nino/La Nina in the Pacific Ocean. “Believe it or not, what happens in the Pacific has an impact on tropical activity in the Atlantic Basin, as it has an influence on upper-level wind patterns which can aid or inhibit the formation of tropical systems,” Dunn said. “They also look at past seasons with similar conditions to come up with a baseline set of conditions on which they may base a forecast.” There are a lot of factors that goes into forecasting the weather. The forecasters who have been doing this have done so for many years at a land locked location: Colorado State University. “Forecasting weather, both short-term and long-term, is very dynamic,” Dunn said. “It changes as conditions affecting the forecast
change over time. The initial indications of a hurricane season forecast show up over the winter and evolve through the spring and into the hurricane season. The long-range hurricane forecasting experts at the highly respected Colorado State University program issue a season forecast in the spring, then again at the start of the season (June 1) and yet another update mid-season.” Though hurricanes can roll in during any time of the year, there is a particular window that they tend to frequent. “While the Atlantic Basin season runs from June 1-Nov. 30, the most active period runs from late August through early October,” Dunn said. “That is when water temperatures are warmest and atmospheric conditions are conducive for tropical storm development.” GulfCoastNewsToday.com
Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hurricane season.
Are You Ready? Before, during and after severe weather
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June 2017 â&#x20AC;˘ In the Eye 7
Safety before, during and after the storm By DESTINY BROWN destiny@gulfcoastmedia.com
Baldwin County’s Emergency Management Agency is committed to keeping the citizens of Baldwin County informed about precautions to take when the storm is approaching. Being a coastal county, it’s best to always be prepared for the worst. Knowing what to do beforehand, after and during the storm is important. Reggie Chitwood, direc-
tor of the Baldwin County EMA, has a few tips on taking precautions throughout the rough weather.
Before the storm
• Make an emergency plan. This includes letting people know where you’re going if you evacuate. • Be sure to have all of your documents in a secure location. • Be sure you have all of your prescription medicines on hand. • Build an emergency
kit. This includes gasoline, batteries, a battery or solar powered radio, one gallon of water per person per day, at least 72 hours worth of food, blankets, flashlight. • Keep flooding and traffic in mind if you’re planning to evacuate. Don’t wait before it’s too late.
During the storm
• Find shelter immediately. Stay away from windows and try to stay within inner rooms of the structure.
• Stay informed. Listen to local media outlets and follow EMA on Facebook and Twitter.
After the storm
• You will need a re-entry pass if you live in Fort Morgan or on the island. Contact City of Gulf Shores and they will mail you one if you’re a resident. • Be safe after the storm because there will be a lot of debris on the roads that will take a while to clean up.
Flood protection measures for property SUBMITTED BY THE BALDWIN COUNTY PLANNING AND ZONING DEPARTMENT Every year, flooding causes more property damage in the United States than any other type of natural disaster. While recent construction practices and regulations have made new homes less prone to flooding, many existing structures remain susceptible. Throughout the country there is a growing interest from property owners to develop practical and costeffective methods for reducing or eliminating exposure to flooding. There are many ways you can help protect your property and your possessions from flood damage. Property protection measures publications and assistance is available to you by contacting the Baldwin County Building Inspection Department at 251-972-6837 or by visiting your local libraries. You may also visit www.fema.gov/. 8 In the Eye • June 2017
Baldwin floodplain development permits SUBMITTED BY THE BALDWIN COUNTY PLANNING AND ZONING DEPARTMENT Within the floodplains of Baldwin County, all development, not just construction, requires permits. Extra requirements are involved when developing in the floodplain. Before you alter (fill, grade, clear etc.) your property, construct a building or otherwise
develop your property, contact the Baldwin County Building Inspection Department at 251972-6837; or Planning & Zoning Department at 251-580-1655; or the Highway Subdivision Permitting Department at 251-9370278 to determine if you will be required to obtain a permit or to report any possible unauthorized development within the floodplain. GulfCoastNewsToday.com
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WHAT TO DO BEFOR AFTER A HURRICANE & E BEFORE YOU LEAV
E 1. Turn high voltage power off at AC unit 2. Fill drain with blea ch & water 3. Turn off system at T-Stat 4. Turn off high volta ge to AH 5. Cover outdoor un it with Box or Blanke ts WHEN YOU RETURN
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June 2017 â&#x20AC;¢ In the Eye 9
What’s in your 21st-century survival kit? (MS) — Of the 1,272 federal disaster declarations issued in the last decade, more than half were classified as major disasters. These include calamities such as floods, hurricanes and tropical storms, winter storms, and others. In the last 10 years, every state has had a least two events designated as a major federal disaster. “Most major disasters displaced hundreds or thousands of people from home and work, and nearly all involved a temporary or prolonged loss of major services and necessities, including power, communications, and running water,” said Jonathan Bacon, director of marketing at Wilson Electronics, a maker of communications equipment in St. George, Utah. “We began thinking about what has changed in technology and society, and how that would affect what we would want to have in an
emergency ‘go-pack’,” Bacon said. “A lot of what we would take with us hasn’t changed, but some of what we’d desire today had not been invented 10 years ago. We came up with 6 items that were either invented or radically improved in the last 10 years. We call it the 21st Century Survival Kit.”
Cellphone signal booster
“We’re all extremely dependent on smartphones for voice and data communications. Already widely used by first responders and news crews when initially entering disaster zones, the Sleek 4G, a portable cellphone signal booster from Wilson Electronics, helps to transmit and receive calls and data via cell towers unaffected by a disaster. In a severe situation like Hurricane Sandy where all communications were compromised for several days,
having a cell booster could save precious hours of driving time to find a strong cell signal.”
able brightness to maximize battery life and can be made bright enough to cast light more than 100 feet.
Batteries
Two-way FRS/GMRS radios
Two portable lithium-ion batteries, each with a minimum capacity of 10,000mAh, is enough for one battery to fully charge at least three smartphones or to power a tablet, netbook, or cell booster for several hours.
Portable solar panel
“These solar panels weigh only about a pound and are very practical for charging portable batteries and devices,” said Bacon. He recommended a panel capable of producing at least 10 Watts of power and one amp of current.
LED headlamp
Also powered by rechargeable batteries, the latest generation of these types of lamps have adjust-
“When even a Wilson booster can’t find a cell signal, these radios provide a communications range up to 30 miles,” said Bacon.
Microbial filter straw
This is used for drinking water that may be contaminated with bacteria, organic and waterborne chemicals, and other harmful elements. One filter straw can filter 30 gallons of water. “A lot has happened just in the last 10 years to make keeping in contact and avoiding health risks easier under adverse conditions,” said Bacon. All of these products are readily available, weigh less than five pounds total and take up little room in a backpack.
FLOODING
Local hazards SUBMITTED BY THE BALDWIN COUNTY PLANNING AND ZONING DEPARTMENT Baldwin County is virtually surrounded by water, with the exception of several miles in the extreme northeast bordering Escambia County, with numerous bays, rivers, streams and arbitraries within the interior portions of the county. Baldwin County faces its greatest threat of flooding from hurricanes and tropical 10 In the Eye • June 2017
storms, but coastal flooding can occur yearround. These storms can destroy many properties and cause damage to countless others. Even though property may have escaped flooding or damage from previous storms, it may not escape flooding or damage from the next storm. To determine if your property is located in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) contact the Baldwin County Building Inspection Department at (251) 972-6837.
Flood warning system warns residents of danger SUBMITTED BY THE BALDWIN COUNTY PLANNING AND ZONING DEPARTMENT Baldwin County’s Emergency Management Agency uses several different warning devices to warn residents and visitors of storms and potential rising water hazards. The Local Area Emergency Alert System was developed by the State Emergency Management Agency, Local Emergency Management Agency and the Federal Communica-
tions Commission to provide emergency notification of hazardous weather and/ or emergency incidents. This emergency system is activated by Emergency Management Personnel and the National Weather Service. The Early Alert System – 911 (EAS) allows the emergency operations center to receive weather related messages and alerts from the National Weather Service. SEE SYSTEM, PAGE
12
GulfCoastNewsToday.com
Keep pets safe during natural disasters FROM HUMANESOCIETY.ORG
ID your pet
Make sure that cats and dogs are wearing collars and identification tags that are up to date. You’ll increase your chances of being reunited with pets who get lost by having them microchipped. Make sure the microchip registration is in your name. But remember, the average citizen who finds your pet won’t be able to scan for a chip, but they will probably be able to read a basic tag! Put your cell phone number on your pet’s tag. It may also be a good idea to include the phone number of a friend or relative outside your immediate area — in case you have to evacuate.
Put together your disaster kit Use our checklist to assemble an emergency kit for yourself and your pet. Find a safe place to stay ahead of time Never assume that you will be allowed to bring your
pet to an emergency shelter. Before a disaster hits, call your local office of emergency management to see if you will be allowed to evacuate with your pets and verify that there will be shelters in your area that take people and their pets.
Contact hotels and motels outside your immediate area to find out if they accept pets. Ask about any restrictions on number, size and species. Inquire if a “no pet” policy would be waived in an emergency. Keep a list of animal-friendly places handy, and call ahead for a reservation as soon as you think you might have to leave your home. For help identifying pet-friendly lodgings, check out these websites: • Bringfido.com • Dogfriendly.com • Doginmysuitcase.com • Pet-friendly-hotels.net • Pets-allowed-hotels.com • Petswelcome.com • Tripswithpets.com Make arrangements with friends or relatives. Ask people outside your immediate area if they would be able
to shelter you and your pets — or just your pets — if necessary. If you have more than one pet, you may need to arrange to house them at separate locations. Consider a kennel or veterinarian’s office. Make a list of boarding facilities and veterinary offices that might be able to shelter animals in disaster emergencies (make sure to include their 24-hour telephone numbers). Check with your local animal shelter. Some shelters may be able to provide foster care or shelter for pets in an emergency. But keep in mind that shelters have limited resources and are likely to be stretched during a local emergency.
Plan for your pet in case you’re not home
In case you’re away during a disaster or evacuation order, make arrangements well in advance for someone you trust to take your pets and meet you at a specified location. Be sure the person is comfortable with your pets and your pets are familiar with them. Give your emergency caretaker a key to your home and show them where your pets are likely to be (especially if they hide when they’re nervous) and where your disaster supplies are kept. If you have a pet-sitter, they may be able to help. Discuss the possibility well in advance.
If you evacuate, take your pet
If it isn’t safe for you, it isn’t safe for your pets. You have no way of knowing how long you’ll be kept out of the area, and you may not be able — or allowed — to go back for your pets. Pets left behind in a disaster can easily be injured, lost or killed. Evacuate early. Don’t wait for a mandatory evacuation order. Some people who have waited to be evacuated by emergency officials have been told to leave their pets behind. The smell of smoke or the sound of high winds or thunder may make your pet more fearful and difficult to load into a crate or carrier. SEE PETS, PAGE GulfCoastNewsToday.com
17
June 2017 • In the Eye 11
SYSTEM CONTINUED FROM 10
The Reverse 911 notification is a prerecorded message sent to all home phones that are non-restrictive and cell phones that are registered with the Emergency 911 Agency. There are four Flood Monitoring Stations located within Baldwin County which are monitored by the U.S. Department of the Interior, U.S. Geological Survey Water Resources Division; the National Weather Service and the Baldwin County Emergency Management Agency. This information is used to monitor stream flow and stream height for early detection of rising waters. Baldwin County Emer-
gency Management Agency uses Doppler radar monitoring as well as several satellite imagery programs to monitor local weather. Baldwin County utilizes the EAS alerting system through local radio stations and the National Weather Service as well as local media outlets. NOAA Weather Radios are installed in all public and private schools as well as all county and municipal buildings. In the event of flood hazards, tune into local radio and TV stations for information. For additional information on Baldwin County’s Flood Warning Threat Recognition Program or a list of the area television and radio stations contact the Emergency Management Agency at 251-972-6807.
Map of the local flood hazard SUBMITTED BY THE BALDWIN COUNTY PLANNING AND ZONING DEPARTMENT The Baldwin County Inspection Department maintains Federal Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs). These maps are available for public inspection during normal business hours. They may also be viewed at
your local library. Upon written request, you may obtain a map of your property as it relates to a local flood hazard area by contacting the Baldwin County Planning & Zoning Department at 251-580-1655. Copies of Elevation Certificates can also be obtained at this office.
Keep safe in floods SUBMITTED BY THE BALDWIN COUNTY PLANNING AND ZONING DEPARTMENT Flood safety protection measures you should take during an event or major storm: • Have your electricity and gas turned off by the power company. • Do not drive or walk through flowing water or any flooded area. • Stay clear of any unstable stream banks. • Stay tuned to your local television or radio station for weather updates. • If you are required to 12 In the Eye • June 2017
evacuate, try to move to the house of a friend or family member not affected by the impending flood hazard. • If you live in a mobile home, plan to evacuate at the first notice. • Everyone should rehearse your evacuation plans with all household members and plan to leave early to avoid traffic delays. For additional information regarding Baldwin County’s flood warning program, contact Baldwin County Emergency Management Agency at 251-9726807. GulfCoastNewsToday.com
Buy flood insurance well before storms SUBMITTED BY THE BALDWIN COUNTY PLANNING AND ZONING DEPARTMENT Most mortgage lenders require flood insurance based on the location and elevation of the property. Flood damage, unlike wind damage, is not
covered by homeowner’s policies and must be purchased separately. Since Baldwin County is an NFIP community, federally backed flood insurance is available. There is typically a 30day waiting period before a new flood insurance
policy becomes effective. You are eligible for flood insurance, regardless of whether your property has never flooded, or has flooded several times in the past. All properties secured by a federally backed mortgage must carry flood
insurance. For more information about flood insurance, property owners should contact their insurance agent or call the NFIP’s toll-free information line at 1-800-427-4661.
Substantial improvement/damage requirements SUBMITTED BY THE BALDWIN COUNTY PLANNING AND ZONING DEPARTMENT The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and Baldwin County Building Inspection Department requires that if the cost of reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition, or other improvements
to a building equals or exceeds 50 percent of the market value, then the building must meet the same construction requirements as a new building. The permits required for construction ensure that buildings are in compliance with the NFIP and Baldwin County Flood Damage
Prevention Ordinance. Contact the Baldwin County Building Inspection Department at (251) 972-6837 to obtain additional information on the 50 percent rule and a copy of the Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance.
BE STORM SMART Baldwin EMC urges you to follow these electrical safety tips following a major storm •
Stay far away from fallen power lines and anything touching them..
•
Don’t drive over fallen power lines. Call Baldwin EMC or 911 to report them.
•
Use extreme care when stepping into flooded areas. Submerged outlets or electrical cords can energize water, posing a lethal trap.
•
Do not use electrical appliances that have been wet.
•
When using a portable electric generator, follow all of the safety rules established by its manufacturer.
Go to www.baldwinemc.com for more tips.
www.baldwinemc.com (251) 989-6247 GulfCoastNewsToday.com
June 2017 • In the Eye 13
14 In the Eye â&#x20AC;¢ June 2017
GulfCoastNewsToday.com
2017 HURRICANE NAMES Arlene Bret Cindy Don Emily Franklin Gert Harvey Irma Jose Katia Lee Maria Nate Ophelia Philippe Rina Sean Tammy Vince Whitney
GulfCoastNewsToday.com
June 2017 â&#x20AC;¢ In the Eye 15
Natural and beneficial functions of wetlands SUBMITTED BY THE BALDWIN COUNTY PLANNING AND ZONING DEPARTMENT The wetlands within Baldwin County are indispensable and fragile natural resources with significant development constraints due to flooding, erosion and soil limitations. In their natural state, wetlands serve man and nature. They provide habitat areas for fish, wildlife and vegetation; water quality maintenance and pollution control; flood control; erosion control; natural resource education; and many other causes. Damaging or destroying wetlands threatens public safety and the general welfare. It is therefore necessary for Baldwin County to ensure maximum pro-
ALLISON MARLOW / GULF COAST MEDIA
tection for wetlands by discouraging development activities that may adversely affect wetlands. Baldwin County regulates stormwater management policies through the Subdivision Regulations for all new developments.
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16 In the Eye • June 2017
Developments which produce an increase in the amount of stormwater runoff are required to construct stormwater management facilities. Baldwin County has provisions which impose requirements on persons engaged in land disturbing activities which require planning and implementation of effective
sedimentation controls for individual lots and subdivision development sites. For more information regarding Erosion, Sedimentation or Stormwater Management requirements for new developments, contact the Baldwin County Planning & Zoning Department at 251-580-1655 or the Subdivision Permitting Department at 251-937-0278.
County’s drainage system maintenance SUBMITTED BY THE BALDWIN COUNTY PLANNING AND ZONING DEPARTMENT Proper drainage helps to reduce the risk of flooding and maintain the integrity of the road system. Baldwin County maintains all drainage ways and structures located on county right-ofways and county-owned property. The county prohibits any dumping of trash or yard debris in these areas, which could result in increased flooding or damages in areas that would
otherwise be protected. Owner’s whose property is located within an identified flood area must ensure that their drainage infrastructure is kept in working order and free from any obstruction that could impede the free flow of water. If you experience problems in any of the county right-of-ways or wish to report any violations, you are encouraged to contact the Baldwin County Engineering Department at (251) 972-6897 or (251) 937-0371 or (251) 990-4635. GulfCoastNewsToday.com
PETS CONTINUED FROM 11
Evacuating before conditions become severe will keep everyone safer and make the process less stressful.
If you stay home, do it safely
If your family and pets must wait out a storm or other disaster at home, identify a safe area of your home where you can all stay together. • Close off or eliminate unsafe nooks and crannies where frightened cats may try to hide. • Move dangerous items such as tools or toxic products that have been stored in the area. • Bring your pets indoors as soon as local authorities say trouble is on the way. Keep dogs on leashes and cats in carriers, and make sure they are wearing identification. • If you have a room you can designate as a “safe room,” put your emergency supplies in that room in advance, including your pet’s crate and supplies. Have any medications and a supply of pet food and water inside watertight containers, along with your other emergency supplies. If there is an open fireplace, vent, pet door or similar opening in the house, close it off with plastic sheeting and strong tape. • Listen to the radio periodically, and don’t come out until you know it’s safe.
After the disaster
Your home may be a very different place after the emergency is over, and it may be hard for your pets to adjust. • Don’t allow your pets to roam loose. Familiar landGulfCoastNewsToday.com
marks and smells might be gone, and your pet will probably be disoriented. Pets can easily get lost in such situations. • While you assess the damage, keep dogs on leashes and cats in carriers inside the house. If your house is damaged, your pets could escape. • Be patient with your pets after a disaster. Try to get them back into their normal routines as soon as possible. Be ready for behavioral problems caused by the stress of the situation. If these problems persist, or if your pet seems to be having any health problems, talk to your veterinarian. • If your community has been flooded, check your home and yard for wild animals who may have sought refuge there. Wildlife can pose a threat to you and your pet. Check out our tips for humanely evicting wildlife.
Be ready for everyday emergencies There may be times that you can’t get home to take care of your pets. Icy roads may trap you at the office overnight, an accident may send you to the hospital things happen. But you can make sure your pets get the care they need by making arrangements now: • Find a trusted neighbor, friend or family member and give them a key. Make sure this backup caretaker is comfortable and familiar with your pets (and vice versa). • Make sure your backup caretaker knows your pets’ feeding and medication schedule, whereabouts and habits. • If you use a pet-sitting service, find out in advance if they will be able to help in case of an emergency.
June 2017 • In the Eye 17
Storm safety for residents on the island Living on an island is a dream, but when a storm hits, paradise can quickly turn into a nightmare. And, the areas closest to the water can sustain the most damage. If you live on or near the island, you should take storm preparation seriously. Brandan Franklin, City of Gulf Shores Emergency, said residents should consider the following as they prepare their homes for hurricane season: “Have a plan ready now, before the threat of a storm,” Franklin said. “Where am I going? How long am I prepared to stay away from my residence? Who do I call if I have damage to my residence? These are a few things to think about now, not when a storm is approaching.”
If you have to leave
• Do I have my insurance and pertinent documents with me so it is not destroyed? • Have I disposed of any perishable food items in the pantry? In the refrigerator and freezer? This has been a huge problem in the past. Power can be interrupted for several days and nothing is worse than coming back to a house without any damage but the smell of rotten food is permeating through the house. • If you’re a resident, make sure you have the Hurricane Zone decal. • Have I secured everything outside/below my house? Securing loose items and ensuring everything is elevated prior to leaving can keep items from becoming missiles during a high wind event and other items from being damaged due to flooding. 18 In the Eye • June 2017
Additional information regarding Hurricane Zone decals can be found at www.gulfshoresal.gov.
Beware of flooding
The locations nearest to the water are the places most likely to flood. This has been one of the biggest issues with bad weather at the beach. “Flooding along with high wind creates major problems for the city,” Franklin said. “There are several lowlying areas within the city which typically flood. The flooding in our area causes sand displacement along the beach areas and debris lines in other areas. Flooding can be a serious issue at the beach that typically affects utilities. “When there is flooding, this causes our utilities to be shut down. Water, sewer and power is disrupted,” Franklin said. “Only until the water recedes can we send our crews and contractors into the area to assess the damage and start making repairs necessary to restore these services.” If you live on the island
or have another reason to get on the island during a storm, you may have a few obstacles getting to your destination. “Typically, during a named storm event, the city will establish roadblocks restricting access for various areas where we feel there is potential danger to our citizens,” Franklin said. Residents of the island are given Hurricane Zone decals, which may help in some cases. “If a roadblock is established, our residents can access these areas only if they have the Hurricane Zone decal displayed in their vehicle for the zone in which the roadblock applies. Re-entry into these areas is only allowed when the city feels the area is safe for our residents.” Additional information regarding Hurricane Zone decals can be found at www. gulfshoresal.gov.
Returning home
Upon returning home after the storm, there are a few things you need to check immediately. “Once you are allowed to return to your residence, always perform an assessment of the utilities,” Franklin said. “Is there damage to the electrical meter panel? Are there any broken water or sewer lines? Making sure these components are safe and not damaged can prevent further damage once these utility services are restored.” “Also, remember to check for updates from the utility companies providing sewer in your area. Just because there may not be any damage to your sewer lines, it does not mean the main utility lines have been restored. This can cause unwanted problems such as sewer backing up into your system.” GulfCoastNewsToday.com
In the event of flood hazards, tune in to local media for information. AREA TELEVISION STATIONS Channel 3 (ABC) WEAR TV Channel 5 (CBS) WKRG TV Channel 10 (NBC) WALA TV Channel 15 (FOX) WPMI TV Channel 44 WJTC TV AREA RADIO STATIONS WABB AM/FM (1480) WABF AM (1220) WAVH FM (106.5) WBCA AM (1110) WBHY AM (840) WBHY FM (88.5) WBLX FM (92.5) WDLT FM (98.3) WDLT AM (600) WBUB FM (104.1) WMXC FM (99.9) WRKH FM (96.1) WGOK AM (900) WHEP AM (1310) WHIL FM (91.3) WJLQ FM (100.7) WNTM AM (710) WNSP FM (105.5) WKSJ FM (94.9) WPCS FM (89.3) WUWF FM (91) WXBM FM (102.5) WZEW FM (92.1) WTKK FM (TK-101) WXWY AM (100) WMOB AM (1360) WQUA FM (102.1) GulfCoastNewsToday.com
Most powerful storms to hit Alabama, Gulf Coast in last century Great Miami Hurricane 1926
The “Great Miami” Hurricane was first spotted as a tropical wave located 1,000 miles east of the Lesser Antilles on September 11th. The system moved quickly westward and intensified to hurricane strength. Little in the way of meteorological information on the approaching hurricane was available to the Weather Bureau in Miami. As a result, hurricane warnings were not issued until midnight on September 18th, which gave the booming population of South Florida little notice of the impending disaster. The Category 4 hurricane’s eye moved directly over Miami Beach and downtown Miami during the morning hours of the 18th. This cyclone produced the highest sustained winds ever recorded in the United States at the time. Many casualties resulted as people ventured outdoors during the half-hour lull in the storm as the eye passed overhead. Most residents, having not experienced a hurricane, believed that the storm had passed during the lull. They were suddenly trapped and exposed to the eastern half of the hurricane shortly thereafter. Every building in the downtown district of Miami was damaged or destroyed. Hundreds of people in Moore Haven alone were killed by this surge, which left behind floodwaters in the town for weeks afterward. The hurricane continued northwestward across the Gulf of Mexico and approached Pensacola on September 20th. The storm nearly stalled to the south of Pensacola later that day and buffeted the central Gulf Coast with 24 hours of heavy rainfall, hurricane force winds, and storm surge. The hurricane weakened as it moved inland over Louisiana later on the 21st. Nearly every pier, warehouse, and vessel on Pensacola Bay was destroyed. The great hurricane of 1926 ended the economic boom in South Florida and would be a $90 billion disaster
had it occurred in recent times. With a highly transient population across southeastern Florida during the 1920s, the death toll is uncertain since more than 800 people were missing in the aftermath of the cyclone. A Red Cross report lists 373 deaths and 6,381 injuries as a result of the hurricane.
Tropical Storm Alberto 1994
The cyclone made landfall in the western Florida Panhandle, moved north-northeastward into western Georgia, and finally dissipated over central Alabama on July 7. Alberto’s winds and tides produced only minor damage at the coast, but the excessive rains that fell in Georgia, Alabama, and western Florida were another story. Amounts exceeded 10 inches in many locations, with the maximum being the 27.61 inch storm total at Americus, GA (including 21 inches in 24 hours). Severe flooding resulted over large portions of southern Georgia, western Alabama, and the western Florida Panhandle. The floods were responsible for 30 deaths and $500 million in damage.
Hurricane Opal 1995
Opal was a Category 3 hurricane when it made landfall near Pensacola Beach, Fla. It continued quickly northnortheastward. Hurlbert Field, Florida reported sustained winds of 84 mph with a peak gust of 144 mph, and gusts to 70 mph occurred as far inland as northwest Georgia. However, the main impact from Opal was from storm surge. A combination of storm surge and breaking waves inundated portions of the western Florida Panhandle coast to a depth of 10 to 20 ft. The surge was responsible for the bulk of the $3 billion in damage attributed to Opal in the United States. Opal was responsible for 9 deaths in SEE CENTURY, PAGE
26
June 2017 • In the Eye 19
Baldwin County evacuation routes Evacuation Map Routes
Gulf Shores and Orange Beach — Hwy. 59 and Foley Beach Express.
Primary Route
• Central and South Baldwin: Hwy. 59 North • Eastern Shores: State Hwy. 181 and Hwy. 98 North • Lillian Area: Co. Rd. 87
Other Important Information
Guests and residents staying or living on the east side of Pleasure Island (Orange Beach and Ono Island) please use the Foley Beach Express and Toll Bridge. Toll will be lifted for Northbound traffic during evacuation.
Areas To Be Evacuated Category 1 and 2 Storm 1. All residents living in mobile homes. 2. All low lying areas: Fort Morgan, Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Mobile Bay.
Categories 3, 4 or 5 Storm 1. All areas listed in Categories 1 & 2 storm. 2. All areas south of Highway 98. 3. All residents wishing to seek shelter should relocate to a county outside the hazard area.
Planning
Study the map and the evacuation routes. Plan out which roads you are going to take before the hurricane season. Make reservations for motels early or have other plans for lodging. Plan on leaving early due to congested traffic.
Find Out More
For additional information visit www. cobaldwin.al.us. When evacuating: Leave 24 to 36 hours before gale-force winds are expected to hit. 20 In the Eye • June 2017
GulfCoastNewsToday.com
Baldwin County evacuation shelters Baldwin County Emergency Management Agency (BCEMA) strongly recommends evacuation. “Shelters of Last Resort” are made available by the county, however, the structural integrity of the facilities cannot be guaranteed.
Protect your air conditioning unit from the storm By DESTINY BROWN
destiny@gulfcoastmedia.com
In the hurry of preparing or evacuating for severe weather, we sometimes overlook a very important factor in our homes: the A/C unit. Your A/C unit can be heavily damaged by the storm if a few precautions are ignored. There are many ways to protect your indoor and outdoor A/C unit from the storm that will save you money, time and keep you and your family safe. Randy Englebert, owner of Climatemp, offers a few tips on how to best protect your A/C unit during a severe weather situation.
Before the storm All individuals entering the shelter must: • Complete a Registration/ Waiver of Liability Form. • Present photo identification. • Obey the shelter rules. • Be subject to a criminal background check.
Mass Care Shelters
Senior Citizen Shelter Central Baldwin Middle School 24545 State Highway 59 Robertsdale, AL 36567
Medical Needs Shelters
Baldwin County Coliseum 19477 Fairground Road Robertsdale, AL 36567
Baldwin County Level II Community Shelter 207 North White Ave. Bay Minette, AL 36507
Baldwin County High School 1 Tiger Drive Bay Minette, AL 36507
Baldwin County Coliseum (Cattle & Fair) 19477 Fairground Road Robertsdale, AL 36567
Fairhope High School 1 Pirate Drive Fairhope, AL 36532
Electrical Support shelters
Daphne East Elementary 26651 County Road 13 Daphne, AL 26526
Foley Satellite Courthouse 201 East Section St. Foley, AL 36535
Bay Minette Middle School 1311 West 13th St. Bay Minette, AL 36507
Fairhope Satellite Courthouse 1100 Fairhope Ave. Fairhope, AL 36532
GulfCoastNewsToday.com
• Turn off indoor and outdoor air conditioning at the breaker. When your A/C unit switches on and off repeatedly it does damage to your unit, possibly long-term damage that could be expensive to repair. • Before leaving your home, cover your outdoor unit. Use plastic, blankets, cardboard boxes or something heavy to secure the unit. • If you live closer to the storm surge, which is within a mile of the coast, you need to make sure your outdoor unit is bolted and screwed down or it can blow away.
After the storm
• Do not automatically turn your breakers back on when returning from a storm. Englebert suggests you have an air conditioning contractor access the situation first. • Have a professional look at the whole envelope of the house and make sure you haven’t lost insulation. Sometimes after storms, we see that insulation has been displaced and storms can suck it out of your house or sometimes it may pile up in one part of the house. • Upon returning to your house, remove those things that protected your outdoor unit and access the situation. Make sure sticks aren’t in the fan. You may want to contact a professional for this assessment because some things go unseen from a person who doesn’t know what to look for. • Along the coast, a big problem is sand. The wind blows very hard and has a lot of sand, moisture and salt in it. A trained eye needs to look at your unit after the storm. It’s better to get the salt off as quickly as possible otherwise it starts to deteriorate your unit. If left unchecked within six months your unit will be a piece of junk. June 2017 • In the Eye 21
After the hurricane — past storm photos
22 In the Eye • June 2017
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June 2017 â&#x20AC;¢ In the Eye 23
Weather the storm with these weather apps
AccuWeather
Includes severe weather warnings, a huge 15-day maximum forecast range, integration with the iOS Calendar app for weather stats, plus social sharing and animated maps.
Storm Chase Buddy
An app by AndroidFanBuddy. com that has basic, up-to-date weather, but gains info through regularly updated feeds. Provides an easy access point to catch up on police and emergency scanners, airport conditions and extreme weather alerts. Information is provided alongside its corresponding point on the map.
24 In the Eye • June 2017
The Weather Channel
RadarScope
Tornado Warning and Alert App / The Red Cross Flood App
WeatherBug Mobile
Users can see stats such as current temperatures, precipitation, wind, UV index, sunrise and sunset, all tailored to current and preferred locations. Radar maps are updated regularly; weather alerts are provided for saved areas. Features of the app vary slightly from Android to Apple to BlackBerry formats.
Everything you need to know to prepare for a tornado, with interactive quizzes and simple step-by-step advice. Also check out The Red Cross Flood App to prepare your home and family in the event of a flood.
Geared toward serious weather hobbyists and storm trackers who thrive on data, number-crunching and attributing precise metrics to the unpredictability of nature. With data from NEXRAD (NextGeneration Radar), information is a lot more specific than simpler, less expensive apps. Browse current tornado, hurricane and flash-flood warnings, or view summarized storm reports and lightning data.
The world’s largest network of realtime weather sensors for forecasts, alerts and more. Get the industry’s most accurate pinpoint forecasts for your neighborhood and around the world. Advanced early warning system, powered by the largest nationwide weather and lightning network, Know Before.
GulfCoastNewsToday.com
413 E. Laurel Ave. • Foley, AL 36353
700 Whispering Pines Rd. • Daphne, AL 36526
Outages & Emergencies 251-943-4999
Outages & Emergencies 251-625-4999
251-943-5001
251-626-5000
“After the storm, your friends are there for you.”
Serving South Baldwin County Since 1916 www.rivierautilities.com GulfCoastNewsToday.com
June 2017 • In the Eye 25
CENTURY CONTINUED FROM 19
the United States, including 8 from falling trees and one from a tornado.
Tropical Storm Allison 2001
The storm made landfall near Freeport, Texas and moved slowly, days later, into the Gulf of Mexico where it re-intensified into a subtropical storm. Allison weakened again and began a slow drift toward the Atlantic where it gained strength again. Allison brought tropical-stormforce winds and above normal tides to portions of the Texas and Louisiana coasts. However, the greatest legacy of the cyclone was the widespread heavy rains and resulting floods along the entire path of the cyclone. Houston, Texas, was the worst affected area, as the Port of Houston reported 36.99 inches and several other locations reported more than 30 inches. The storm also spawned 23 tornadoes. Allison was responsible for 41 deaths and at least $5 billion in damage in the United States, making it the deadliest and costliest U. S. tropical storm of record.
Hurricane Ivan 2004
Ivan was a category 3 hurricane when the center passed about 7 miles south of Grenada. In the Caribbean, Ivan became a category 5 hurricane, with winds of 160 m.p.h., when it was south of the Dominican Republic. The center of Ivan passed within about 20 miles of Jamaica. Ivan then turned to the northwest and passed through the Yucatan channel bringing hurricane conditions to extreme western Cuba. Ivan moved across the east-central Gulf of Mexico, making landfall as a major hurricane with sustained winds of near 120 m.p.h. on the 16th just west of Gulf Shores, Alabama. Ivan weakened as it moved inland, producing over 100 tornadoes and heavy rains across much of the southeastern United States, before merging with a frontal system over the Delmarva Peninsula. While this would normally be the end of the story, the extratropical remnant low of Ivan split off from the frontal system and drifted southward in the western Atlantic for several days, crossed southern Florida, and re-entered the Gulf of Mexico. 26 In the Eye • June 2017
The low re-acquired tropical characteristics, becoming a tropical storm for the second time in the central Gulf. Ivan weakened before it made its final landfall in southwestern Louisiana as a tropical depression. Ivan’s storm surge completely overwashed the island of Grand Cayman, where an estimated 95 percent of the buildings were damaged or destroyed. Surge heights of 10-15 feet occurred along the Gulf coast during Ivan’s first U.S. landfall. Peak rainfall amounts in the Caribbean and United States were generally 10-15 inches. The death toll from Ivan stands at 92 - 39 in Grenada, 25 in the United States, 17 in Jamaica, 4 in Dominican Republic, 3 in Venezuela, 2 in the Cayman Islands, and 1 each in Tobago and Barbados. U.S. damage is estimated to be near $14.2 billion, the third largest total on record.
Hurricane Dennis 2005
Dennis strengthened into a hurricane early on July 6 about 245 miles east-southeast of Jamaica. Dennis intensified over the next two days, becoming a major hurricane on July 7 and a Category 4 hurricane with winds of 150 mph the next day just south of central Cuba. Dennis passed over Cabo Cruz, Cuba with winds of 135 mph, and then made landfall along the south-central coast of Cuba that afternoon near Cienfuegos with winds of 145 mph. After landfall, Dennis passed near Havana and weakened to a Category 1 hurricane before emerging over the southeastern Gulf of Mexico. Although Dennis re-intensified into a Category 4 hurricane with winds of 145 mph early on July 10 over the eastern Gulf of Mexico, it weakened to Category 3 strength before making landfall over the western Florida Panhandle near Navarre Beach late that day. Dennis caused hurricane conditions in the western Florida Panhandle. Heavy rainfall occurred over much of Florida and extended well inland over portions of the southeastern United States with the maximum amount of 12.80 inches near Camden, Alabama. Ten tornadoes were reported in association with Dennis in the United States. Dennis caused 42 deaths - 22 in Haiti, 16 in Cuba, 3 in the United States, and 1 in Jamaica. The hurricane caused considerable damage across central and
eastern Cuba as well as the western Florida Panhandle, including widespread utility and communications outages. Considerable storm surgerelated damage also occurred near St. Marks, Florida, well to the east of the landfall location. The damage associated with Dennis in the United States is estimated at $2.23 billion. Damage in Jamaica is estimated at 1.9 billion Jamaican dollars* (approximately $31.7 million U. S.).
Hurricane Katrina 2005
This horrific tropical cyclone formed from the combination of a tropical wave, an upper-level trough, and the mid-level remnants of Tropical Depression Ten. A tropical depression formed on August 23 about 200 miles southeast of Nassau in the Bahamas. Moving northwestward, it became Tropical Storm Katrina during the following day about 75 miles east-southeast of Nassau. The storm moved through the northwestern Bahamas on August 2425, and then turned westward toward southern Florida. Katrina became a hurricane just before making landfall near the Miami-Dade/Broward county line during the evening of August 25. The hurricane moved southwestward across southern Florida into the eastern Gulf of Mexico on August 26. Katrina then strengthened significantly, reaching Category 5 intensity on August 28. Later that day, maximum sustained winds reached 175 mph with an aircraft-measured central pressure of 902 mb while centered about 195 miles southeast of the mouth of the Mississippi River. Katrina turned to the northwest and then north, with the center making landfall near Buras, Louisiana at 1110 UTC August 29 with maximum winds estimated at 125 mph (Category 3). Continuing northward, the hurricane made a second landfall near the Louisiana/Mississippi border at 1445 UTC with maximum winds estimated at 120 mph (Category 3). Weakening occurred as Katrina moved north-northeastward over land, but it was still a hurricane near Laurel, Mississippi. The cyclone weakened to a tropical depression over the Tennessee Valley on August 30. Katrina became an extratropical low on August 31 and was absorbed by a frontal zone later that day over the eastern Great Lakes. GulfCoastNewsToday.com
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June 2017 • In the Eye 27
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