Hurricane Irene Inbound

August 25, 2011 at 11:34 am | Posted in Science News | Leave a comment

Today’s Science Thursday post is of a more serious nature. As if the 5.9 earthquake on Tuesday wasn’t enough to startle people on the East Coast, now Hurricane Irene looms on the ocean as it closes in on the coast. With winds already clocked at 115 mph, the effects of the storm could be severe as it hits stateside since the path of the storm is predicted to turn north today. The National Weather Service has warned that “widespread damaging winds, torrential rain, coastal flooding, dangerous rip currents/waves and beach erosion” could happen as a result of Irene and anyone in the projected path should make preparations as soon as possible. New Jersey is especially on guard due to the threat of flooding and the high amount of rainfall they’ve already received.

“We’re telling people, ‘ listen, take today and tomorrow to prepare. Don’t wait.’ Have a full tank of gas, plenty of food in the house, blankets and clothes in your car. Make sure you’re prepared just in case,” said state police Sgt. Brian Polite, noting evacuation plans, should they be necessary are in place and ready to be activated. “Right now, we’re watching, waiting and getting ready.”

If you’re on the East Coast, keep an eye on the news and weather, and please take precautions for the worst.

The projected path of Hurricane Irene at of 11:00 AM 8/25/11, from the National Hurricane Center.

Posted By: Skuldren for Roqoo Depot.