Disaster Preparedness Guide 2022

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DISASTER PREPAREDNESS GUIDE

Hurricane season starts June 1

By Philip S. Ruckle Jr. philip.ruckle@thecoastlandtimes.com

In just a few more days, we enter the 2022 hurricane season.

Officially running from June 1 through the end of November, the Atlantic Coast hurricane season dates cover the period each year when most tropical cyclones form in the Atlantic basin.

The emphasis here is the word “most,” simply because in reality hurricanes can – and have – formed at any time of the year. On average there are about 12 named storms during any given hurricane season with six of them becoming full blown hurricanes.

Prior to the start of any hurricane season, several national meteorological services and scientific agencies publish a forecast for how many named storms, hurricanes and major hurricanes are expected to form during the season and how they will affect a particular country.

Forecasts for the year often begin in December with updates into and through the current season from several national meteorological services, scientific agencies and noted hurricane experts.

This past December 9, Colorado State University issued an extended range forecast for the 2022 hurricane season predicting slightly above-average activity with 13–16 named storms, 6–8

hurricanes, and 2–3 major hurricanes.

An April 7, CSU seasonal forecast for the 2022 Atlantic hurricane season predicted above-average activity with 19 named storms, nine hurricanes and four major hurricanes.

Among the most powerful and destructive forces in nature, hurricanes pose a threat to both life and property. The primary hazards from tropical cyclones (which include tropical depressions, tropical storms and hurricanes) are storm surge flooding, inland flooding from heavy rains, destructive winds, tornadoes and high surf and rip currents.

A storm surge is the abnormal rise of water generated by a storm’s winds and are historically the leading cause of hurricane related deaths in the U.S. Dangerous waves produced by a storm’s strong winds pose a significant hazard for coastal residents because these waves can cause deadly rip currents, significant beach erosion and structural damage along the coast even when the storm is several miles offshore.

Flooding from heavy rains, which can persist for several days after a storm has dissipated, ranks as the second leading cause of fatalities from storms making landfall.

Not to be overlooked, hurricane winds

See Hurricane, 9C

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Hurricane Isabel, September 12, 2003.

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Hurricane history in Dare since 1985 1985 – Gloria

Sept. 16 – Oct. 2 Max Wind Speed: 144 mph Landfall: Hatteras – 9/26/85 Category 2 at Landfall with a 6-8 ft. storm surge and 104 mph winds

1985 – Kate Nov. 15 – Nov. 23 Max Wind Speed: 123 mph Landfall: in Florida Affected NC 11/22/85 Tropical storm when arrived in NC with 52 mph winds

1991 – Bob Aug. 16 – Aug. 29 Max Wind Speed: 115 mph Never made landfall in NC Reached Category 3 off of NC coast Hit North Carolina 8/19/91

1993 – Emily Aug. 22 –Sept. 6 Max Wind Speed: 115 mph Never made landfall in NC Reached Category 3 off of coast Affected NC 8/31/93 Evacuation – all of Dare County Estimated damages: $12 million

1996 – Bertha July 5 – July 17 Max Wind Speed: 115 mph Landfall: Topsail Beach 7/13/96 Category 2 at landfall with 104 mph winds and a 5 ft. storm surge Evacuation – all of Dare County

1996 – Fran Aug. 23 – Sept. 10 Max wind Speed: 121 mph Landfall: Cape Fear Category 3 at landfall with 115 mph winds and an 8-12 ft. storm surge No evacuations in Dare County

1998 – Bonnie Aug. 19 – Aug. 31 Max Wind Speed: 115 mph Landfall: Cape Fear Category 3 at landfall 6-8 ft. storm surge Evacuation – all of Dare County

1998 – Earl Aug. 31 – Sept. 8 Max Wind Speed: 98 mph Tropical storm when reached NC

1999 – Dennis Aug. 24 – Sept. 8 Max Wind Speed: 104 mph Landfall: Dare County 9/14/99 Tropical Storm at landfall 69 mph winds Evacuation – all of Dare County

Estimated damages: $10 million

2018 – Michael

1999 – Floyd Sept. 7 – Sept. 19 Max Wind Speed: 155 mph Landfall: Topsail Island 9/16/99 Category 2 at landfall with 109 mph winds Evacuation – all of Dare County

2003 – Isabel Sept. 7 – Sept. 29 Max Wind Speed: 160 mph Landfall: Drum Inlet 9/18/03 Category 2 at landfall with 104 mph winds and 6-10 ft. storm surge Created breech in island between Frisco and Hatteras Village Evacuation – all of Dare County Estimated damages: $167 million

2004 – Alex Aug. 3 Category 2 at the time of landfall Caused sound side flooding Most damage in the form of flooding damage to cars and homes Estimated damages: $2.4 million

2005 – Ophelia Sept. 13 – Sept. 16 Max Wind Speed: 85 mph Passed NC Coast as a Tropical Storm Evacuation – Hatteras Island only Estimated damages: $19,500

2010 – Earl Aug. 25- Sept. 5 Max Wind Speed: 145 mph Passed 100 miles off of the NC Coast Evacuation – all of Hatteras Island and Ocean front of all towns Estimated damages: $500,000

2011 – Irene Aug. 20 – Aug. 28 Max Wind Speed: 120 mph Landfall: just south of the Outer Banks Evacuation all of Dare County Significant flooding Estimated damages: $53,975,960

2012 – Sandy Oct. 25 – Oct. 31 Max Wind Speed: 70 mph Significant road damage to NC 12 in Kitty Hawk and Rodanthe 7-8 inches of rainfall Emergency ferry activation due to NC 12 road damage Estimated Damages: $13+ million

2014 – Arthur July 3 – July 4 Max Wind Speed: 101

DANIELLE PULEO FILE PHOTO

Outer Banks Motor Lodge humorously conveyed what most in the area had to prepare for in 2020: a hurricane in the midst of a pandemic.

mph Category 2 at landfall Earliest hurricane on record Landfall: between Cape Lookout and Beaufort Mandatory evacuation issued for Hatteras Island

Oregon Inlet bridge to Hatteras village Estimated damages: $502,500.

Oct. 10 – Oct. 12 Landfall: Mexico Beach, Fla., Oct 10 Category 4 with top wind at 155 miles per hour.

Leaving the Gulf Coast, Michael sliced through Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina and left for the Atlantic Ocean through Virginia.

Tropical storm in Dare County Winds: 74 mph Kitty Hawk 2 to 4 ft. flood waters above ground level soundside surge Damages: $7.3 million

2019 – Dorian Sept. 6

Landfall: Cape Hatteras as Category 1 101 miles per hour winds recorded at Cape Hatteras 4-7 feet of storm surge impacted Hatteras Island villages Over $14.8 million in damages across Dare County

2020 – Isaias Aug. 3 Category 1 at landfall near Ocean Isle Beach 72 mph winds recorded in Avon 1-3 feet of storm surge in isolated locations of Dare County Produced a lethal EF3 tornado in nearby Bertie County

2016 – Hermine Aug. 28 - Sept. 3 Max Wind Speed: 73 mph Category 1 with tropical sustained winds Extensive flooding in villages on Hatteras Island Storm surge of 4 feet about normal tide Estimated damages: $5.4 million

2016 – Matthew Oct. 7 - Oct. 9 Max Wind Speed: 94 mph Category 1 with landfall in South Carolina Highest Dare County wind reported at 94 mph NWS reported rainfall 12+ inches in Kill Devil Hills Estimated statewide damages: $1.5 billion

2017 – Maria Sept. 25 - Sept. 27 Max Wind Speed: 75 mph Category 1 State of Emergency Declared Mandatory evacuation of visitors on Hatteras Island No estimate of damages available

2018 – Tropical Storm Chris July 7 – July 10 Stayed three days off NC’s southeast coast Persistent north-northeast wind: 25 mph NE swell brought rough surf Soundside flooding and dangerous surf No estimate of damages available

2018 – Florence Sept. 12 – Sept. 18 Landfall: near Wrightsville Beach at 7.15 a.m., Sept.14 Category 1 State of Emergency declared Mandatory evacuation issued for all of Dare County NC 12 closed from

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Above-normal hurricane season predicted Ongoing La Niña, above-average Atlantic temperatures set the stage for busy season Forecasters at NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, a division of the National Weather Service, are predicting above-average hurricane activity this year, which would make it the seventh consecutive above-average hurricane season.

NOAA’s outlook for the 2022 Atlantic hurricane season, which extends from June 1 to Nov. 30, predicts a 65% chance of an above-normal season, a 25% chance of a near-normal season and a 10% chance of a below-normal season.

For the 2022 hurricane season, NOAA is forecasting a likely range of 14 to 21 named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher), of which 6 to 10 could become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including three to six major hurricanes (category 3, 4 or 5; with winds of 111 mph or higher). NOAA provides these ranges with a 70% confidence.

“Early preparation and understanding your risk is key to being hurricane resilient and climate-ready,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo. “Throughout the hurricane season, NOAA experts will work aroundthe-clock to provide early and accurate forecasts and warnings that communities in the path of storms can depend on to stay informed.”

The increased activity anticipated this hurricane season is attributed

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to several climate factors, including the ongoing La Niña that is likely to persist throughout the hurricane season, warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea, weaker tropical Atlantic trade winds and an enhanced west African monsoon.

An enhanced west African monsoon supports stronger African easterly waves, which seed many of the strongest and longest lived hurricanes during most seasons. The way in which climate change impacts the strength and frequency of tropical cyclones is a continuous area of

study for NOAA scientists.

“As we reflect on another potentially busy hurricane season, past storms — such as Superstorm Sandy, which devastated the New York metro area ten years ago — remind us that the impact of one storm can be felt for years,” said NOAA Administrator Rick Spinrad, Ph.D. “Since Sandy, NOAA’s forecasting accuracy has continued to improve, allowing us to better predict the impacts of major hurricanes to lives and livelihoods.”

Additionally, NOAA has enhanced the following products and services this hurricane season: • To improve the

understanding and prediction of how hurricanes intensify, NOAA’s Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Lab and Pacific Marine Environmental Lab will operate five Saildrone uncrewed surface vehicles during the peak of the 2022 hurricane season and coordinate for the first time with uncrewed ocean glides, small aircraft drone systems and NOAA Hurricane Hunter aircraft to measure the ocean, atmosphere and areas where they meet.

• The Hurricane Weather Research and Forecasting Modeling System and Hurricanes in a multi-scale ocean-coupled

non-hydrostatic model, which have shown significant skill improvements in terms of storm track and intensity forecasts, have been successfully transitioned to the newest version of the Weather and Climate Operational Supercomputing System, allowing for uninterrupted operational forecasts.

• The Excessive Rainfall Outlook (ERO) has been experimentally extended from three to five days of lead time, giving more notice of rainfall-related flash flooding risks from tropical storms and hurricanes. The ERO forecasts and maps the probability of intense rainfall that

could lead to flash flooding within 25 miles of a given point.

• In June, NOAA will enhance an experimental graphic that depicts the Peak Storm Surge Forecast when storm surge watches or warnings are in effect.

Upgrades include an updated disclaimer and color coding that illustrates the peak storm surge inundation forecast at the coast.

This tool is currently only available in the Atlantic basin.

“Hurricane Ida spanned nine states, demonstrating that anyone can be in the direct path of a hurricane and in danger from the remnants of a storm system,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell.

“It’s important for everyone to understand their risk and take proactive steps to get ready now by visiting Ready.gov and Listo.gov for preparedness tips, and by downloading the FEMA App to make sure you are receiving emergency alerts in real-time.”

NOAA’s outlook is for overall seasonal activity and is not a landfall forecast.

In addition to the Atlantic seasonal outlook, NOAA has also issued seasonal hurricane outlooks for the eastern and central Pacific hurricane basins. NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center will update the 2022 Atlantic seasonal outlook in early August, just prior to the historical peak of the season.

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What’s in a name?

By Philip S. Ruckle Jr. philip.ruckle@thecoastlandtimes.com

With the official Atlantic hurricane season running June 1 to November 30 each year, the current conditions in the Gulf are cause for concern with some forecasters.

Although it is possible for a hurricane to form during any month of the year, maximum hurricane activity often occurs in early to mid-September. The prediction for the 2022 hurricane season is for “above average” activity, with 19 named storms. That includes nine hurricane-force storms and four major hurricanes predicted.

Hurricanes have been tracked since the early 1870s with the basic concept of a hurricane season beginning in 1935. Early tracking used a cumbersome latitude-longitude identification method with only the most severe hurricanes given names, often for the place where they did the most damage.

In 1950, the U.S. Weather Bureau began using a phonetic alphabet (Able-Baker-Charlie) system for storms, which proved to

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A summary graphic showing an alphabetical list of the 2022 Atlantic tropical cyclone names as selected by the World Meteorological Organization. The official start of the Atlantic hurricane season is June 1 and runs through November 30.

be quicker and less subject to error than the older system in written as well as spoken communications, especially when two or more tropical storms occur at the same time.

In 1953 the National Hurricane Center abandoned the phonetic alphabet and female names were substituted until 1979 when the World Meteorological Organization and the U.S. National

Weather Service switched to a list of names that also included men’s names.

Today there are six different lists of names made up by meteorologists at the World

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Meteorological Organization.

The first tropical storm of the season is given a name that starts with A, the second storm name starts with a B, and so on.

Letters Q, U, X, Y and Z are not used since there are so few common names starting with those letters.

Each name is used in rotation and recycled every six years.

That means the 2022 list will be used again in 2028. The only time that there is a list change is if a storm is so deadly or costly that the future use of its name on a different storm would be confusing or inappropriate. In the event that more than 21 occur in a given season, a supplemental list of names is used.

Storms forming during the off-season are given the next name in the list based on the current calendar date. So a tropical cyclone formed on December 28 would have a name assigned from the previous season’s list of names. A February storm would be named from the subsequent season’s list of names.

There are different name lists for Atlantic and eastern Pacific tropical storms.

First responders prepare for storms

By Philip S. Ruckle Jr. philip.ruckle@ thecoastlandtimes.com

With the 2022 Atlantic hurricane season about to begin, emergency responders all across the Outer Banks are making sure equipment is in order and there are enough responders on hand when needed.

According to one veteran of many Outer Banks storms, it’s important to make sure everything is in order well in advance of

any approaching storm.

That includes making sure vehicles are fueled, propane generator tanks have enough fuel to supply power in the event power lines go down, chain saws are in working order and that all the proper safety gear and other related equipment is in place.

While some departments have paid staff scheduled to be on hand, there are some like Roanoke Island Volunteer Fire Department and fire departments on Hatteras

Island, northern beaches and mainland that depend on volunteers. For those departments, it’s also important to know how many first responders would be available to answer calls.

During any storm calls received are evaluated based on current weather conditions, wind speed and the level of the emergency. Most, if not all, departments try to respond as long as the trucks are not in high water unless it is absolutely necessary.

Even so, there is a limit to emergency responses.

“We don’t send ambulances out on the road when sustained winds exceed 50 mph,” said Jennie Collins, Dare Emergency Medical Services director.

“That kind of wind can flip an ambulance.”

Collins added that in those cases, her crew looks at alternate response methods.

“We will operate in lower profile vehicles when it’s safe to do so,” she said.

Collins said her department, as does others, has standard operating guidelines with different alert levels based on expected conditions.

“We start messaging well in advance of a storm to have staff get their personal preparations taken care of,” said Collins.

“Then, as the storm approaches, we look at where staffing is needed and try to station people close to where they live.”

Collins said there are also efforts to have people and equipment in areas known to be cut off by flooding.

Another concern EMS faces is the helicopter. Collins said when winds are expected above a category I, the helicopter is moved somewhere west to protect it until conditions improve and it is safe to return.

Collins said there is also a high level of coordination with Dare County Social Services.

“Social Services does an excellent job of reaching out to their clients to prepare them in advance of a storm,” Collins continued. “That helps limit

PHILIP S. RUCKLE JR. FILE PHOTO

Volunteer firefighters make sure emergency equipment is working properly prior to a training exercise just like they will before the start of hurricane season.

the number of EMS calls during a storm. They have a registry of patients with oxygen and other special needs.”

Information about that Special Medical Needs Registry is available through the Dare County Department of Health & Human Services’ Social Services Division at 252-475-5500.

Long before a storm’s arrival, local law enforcement personnel spend much of their time making sure traffic is evacuated out safely. Like other agencies, police officers respond to calls during level one, two and three storms up to the point the responder’s life is in jeopardy.

Because there is no place in Dare County rated to shelter in a class five storm, during the most extreme conditions, even sworn officers may have to evacuate.

“If we do evacuate,” said

Kill Devil Hills Assistant Police Chief Dana Harris, “we take what we can and store any other equipment in a safe place and leave in a group to another part of the state. “Once the storm passes, we return with help from the National Guard or somebody else.”

Harris said while town staff and the public are encouraged to follow an evacuation order, police officers signed on to work during such trying times.

He then stressed that during extreme weather conditions officers are stationed in safe places.

Harris stressed that there may be times when officers want to respond but cannot because it is not safe.

“Police officers that do this do it because they want to protect people,” added Harris. “They’re not here just for a paycheck.

They sign up for things like this so they can help people in need.”

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Get prepared ahead of the storm

By Philip S. Ruckle Jr. philip.ruckle@ thecoastlandtimes.com

Most Outer Banks locals know how unpredictable the weather here can be.

With meteorologists predicting a busier-than-average 2022 hurricane season, it’s no surprise that the governor’s office and area emergency management officials are encouraging North Carolina residents and visitors to prepare.

One important step is to prepare an emergency kit.

The idea behind emergency kits is to provide a few basic supplies that will enable someone to take care of themselves for at least a few days. A kit should include enough non-perishable food and water to last each family member three to seven days. Other essential items include:

• First-aid kit • Weather radio and

batteries (or hand-crank if possible) • Prescription medicines • Sleeping bag or blankets • Cash • Changes of clothes • Hygiene items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap and deodorant • Pet supplies including food, water, bedding, leashes, muzzle and vaccination records • Face masks and hand sanitizer • Flashlight and batteries • Easy-to-prepare non-perishable food items and a manual can opener • Water (one gallon per person per day) • Multi-purpose tool, like a Swiss Army knife • Copies of personal documents • Family and emergency contact information • Cell phone with charger • Extra fuel for generator and/or car • Fire extinguisher

How much or how many of each item needed will depend on how many there are in your family/group.

You may also want to add items such as games, books, cards and knitting/crochet supplies to help keep people occupied during a power outage.

Other preventative steps that might help avoid problems is to trim trees, cover windows and securing loose outdoor items before

storms hit.

In any event, have a plan. Create a family disaster plan with an evacuation route. Never ignore an evacuation order. Pay attention to local guidance about updated plans for evacuations and shelters, including shelters for your pets. Protect older adults by taking note and understanding their health and medical concerns. Ensure your pet’s safety before, during and after a

hurricane or other major weather event. When possible, check on neighbors and friends keeping in mind any CDC recommendations to protect yourself and others.

Many Outer Banks vacation rental providers offer vacation insurance, which will reimburse you for some or all of the money spent on lodging if a named storm makes landfall on the Outer Banks.

Keep in mind that this

insurance only protects you if there is a hurricane.

While not part of an emergency kit, before hurricane season gets into high gear you might want to double check your home and flood insurance policies for any necessary changes before a storm rolls through. Changes you may want to consider before or early on in hurricane season include: • Enhancing your home insurance dwelling coverage by adding extended or guaranteed replacement cost coverage to your policy • Lowering your windstorm, named storm or hurricane deductible to an amount you can better afford • Purchasing a separate windstorm insurance policy if wind and hail are excluded from your homeowners insurance • Purchasing a flood insurance policy or endorsement

Tropical Weather Outlook looks at areas of disturbed weather, potential for tropical cyclone formation The 2022 Tropical Weather Outlook started ahead of hurricane season.

May 15 was the opening day for the Atlantic Basin Tropical Weather Outlook.

This National Weather Service product describes significant areas of disturbed weather and their potential for tropical cyclone formation during the next five days.

The Tropical Weather Outlook is issued from May 15 through Nov. 30 each year. The issuance times of this product are 2 and 8 a.m., 2 and 8 p.m., Eastern Daylight Time. A Special Tropical Weather Outlook will be issued to provide updates, as necessary, in between the regularly scheduled issuances of the Tropical Weather Outlook.

On Facebook, go to facebook.com/NWSNHC.

A sample of the NOAA Tropical Weather Outlook.

Image courtesy NOAA.

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Include pets in evacuation plans

By Gregory Clark and Philip Ruckle news@thecoastlandtimes.com

When a hurricane or other weather related disaster hits, don’t overlook the family pet as part of any emergency action plan Keeping in mind that pets are susceptible to many of the same dangers humans would be during a storm, leaving a pet behind should not be an option when obeying an order to evacuate.

Because state health and safety regulations do not allow pets other than service animals in Red Cross or other disaster shelters, it’s important to plan ahead. There are no designated emergency shelters in Currituck nor in Dare County, so a list of pet friendly hotels in the areas you may have to evacuate to would be helpful.

Fortunately, emergency management officials have begun to realize that pets are an important part of many families. That means when emergency shelters are established,

some are likely to be designated as pet accommodation facilities. Locating a pet friendly public shelter in advance can be difficult, but during an emergency listen to local officials and media reports to find an emergency shelter that will allow pets.

Advance planning and preparation will also enable you to evacuate with your pets quickly and safely. Keep in mind, however, that you could be on the road with several hundred to several thousand other people heading to the same general area.

An important step is to make sure an animals’ vaccinations, including rabies, are up to date. Medical documentation is sure to be required by most shelters so a copy of each pet’s medical records from the veterinarian will help with that. Then be sure to store those records in a waterproof container.

Don’t forget to include a current photo and proper identification for all pets in case you and a pet are separated.

ID tags should include pet name, telephone number and any urgent medical needs. It is suggested you include a two-week supply of any medicine your pet requires and a first aid kit. You may wish to take pet beds and toys, if easily transportable.

A sturdy pet carrier or traveling bag, ideally for each pet, should be included, as well as muzzle, collar and leash for dogs, disposable litter trays (aluminum pans work well) and litter or paper towels for cats.

Locating a shelter does not mean there will be food there. Pet owners

will generally be required to feed and care for their own animals.

When preparing a pet emergency evacuation supply kit, it should include food, either dry or canned (pop top or make sure to have a can opener), enough water to last three to seven days, and pet feeding dishes.

Pet owners may wish to consider options to shelters when evacuating, A list of pet friendly hotels and motels can be found online at www.petswelcome.com.

Check policies regarding types, number, size and species of pets that

are accepted. Consider asking friends, relatives or others outside the affected area whether they could shelter your animals. Prepare a list of out of area boarding facilities and veterinarians who could shelter animals in an emergency.

Large animals such as horses and livestock will require even more planning. In addition to medical records, a horse owner needs to know how they will transport their animals. They should have a plan if they need to rent a trailer. During past evacuations, large animal shelters in Martin County and Raleigh have been used during storm events.

Horse owners are required to feed and care for their animals while they are being sheltered.

Although most people do evacuate when facing a major hurricane threat, some do not. Some dogs and cats can become skittish as a storm approaches. Outdoor pets should be brought inside before a forecast storm is projected

to affect the area. After a major storm, the area could be without electricity, water and a way to obtain necessities for days or even weeks. Those who don’t leave should make sure their pets have enough food and water for an extended period.

After the storm passes, animal control agencies will attempt to rescue abandoned and injured animals, shelter them and reunite them with their owners. But area agencies say a pet should never be left behind. Doing so not only places a pet at risk, but animal control officers are in danger when rescuing abandoned pets.

If you need more information, or help planning your pet evacuation kit, contact the people at Outer Banks SPCA and Dare County Animal Shelter at 378 Airport Road in Manteo, or call 252-475-5620.

In Currituck County, the Animal Services Center is at 140 Aviation Parkway in Barco, or call 252-4538682. In Tyrrell County, call 252-766-0033.

Health officials: Take simple steps to practice water safety, protect against drowning and stay healthy Officials at the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services have offered suggestions to maximize the health benefits of swimming and other water-based activities while minimizing the risk of illness, injury and death.

“Everyone can play a role in preventing illnesses and injuries when they

swim, play and relax in the water — this summer and year-round,” stated a NCDHHS press release.

Drowning is a leading preventable cause of death for children. While it can happen to anyone, young children are at the highest risk. To help prevent drowning, monitor all children around pools or other bodies of water.

Designate one responsible adult for every five children in the water, advises NCDHSS. Unlike the flailing depicted on television or in movies, a drowning child is more likely to slip silently underwater, which can be barely noticeable until it is too late.

“Drowning deaths are tragic and preventable,” said Dr. Susan Kansagra,

senior deputy director of NC Division of Public Health. “Now is the time to take simple steps to prevent drownings and stay safe and healthy wherever you and your family or friends gather for water recreation activities.”

To keep pools secure, close and lock or latch gates or doors every time they are used. Never prop a gate or door open. Remove or lock ladders when above-ground pools are not in use.

Pool chemicals, like chlorine, are needed to protect swimmers’ health.

However, mishandling pool chemicals can cause serious, preventable injuries. Keep chemicals secure and away from children and pets, wear safety equipment when handling and never mix different pool chemicals together.

Swimming pools, spas, lakes, rivers or oceans are all potential sources of water recreation illness if the water is contaminated with germs. Recreational water illnesses typically affect a person’s stomach and intestines, skin or respiratory system.

The most common symptoms are diarrhea, skin rashes, ear pain, cough or congestion and eye pain.

Swallowing just a mouthful of water that contains diarrhea-causing germs can make you sick.

Review the North Carolina State Department

of Environmental Quality’s coastal swimming advisory map at bit.ly/3MMYkWM before heading to the beach or check with the local health department before swimming in fresh water.

Algal blooms can also cause illness, although there are no current documented reports in North Carolina. Harmful algal blooms are overgrowths of algae in water. Some produce dangerous toxins in fresh or marine water and it is best to avoid water suspected of having an algal bloom. When in doubt, stay out, advises NCDHHS. Here are a few practical precautions: • Keep children and pets away from waters that appear discolored or scummy.

• Do not handle or touch large accumulations of algae, also called “scums” or “mats.”

• Do not water ski or jet ski over algal mats.

• Do not use scummy water for cleaning or irrigation.

• If you accidentally come into contact with an algal bloom, wash thoroughly.

A more serious water illness comes from primary amoebic meningoencephalitis, also called amoebic meningitis, a very rare but serious disease that leads to inflammation of the brain, which can lead to death.

It’s caused by the Naegleria fowleri amoeba, a single-cell organism, that often grows in warm, untreated, stagnant water such as lakes, rivers or poorly maintained swimming pools.

PAM infection happens if water containing the Naegleria fowleri amoeba travels up the nose, through activities such as jumping, diving or falling into the water. The amoeba can then make their way to the brain, causing inflammation and destroying brain tissue. You cannot get PAM from swallowing infected water, stated the NCDHHS release.

As there is no means to eliminate this amoeba from freshwater bodies of water, in warmer areas where this infection has been more common, recommended precautions include: • Limit the amount of water going up your nose. Hold your nose shut, use nose clips or keep your head above water when taking part in warm freshwater-related activities.

• Avoid water-related activities in warm freshwater during periods of high-water temperature and low water levels.

• Avoid digging in or stirring up the sediment while taking part in water-related activities in shallow, warm freshwater areas.

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Lightning facts and safety

By Philip S. Ruckle Jr. philip.ruckle@thecoastlandtimes.com

You don’t have to be in the middle of a summer storm to witness a lightning strike. Although most lightning occurs in the summer, people can be struck at any time of year.

According to the NOAA website too many people wait far too long to get to a safe place when thunderstorms approach.

That delay, unfortunately, can lead to many of the lightning deaths that occur each year.

In its simplest form, lightning is a violent and sudden electrostatic discharge where two electrically charged regions in the atmosphere temporarily equalize themselves. That usually happens during a thunderstorm but that is not the only time.

Lightning is one of the oldest observed natural phenomena on earth. It can be seen in volcanic eruptions, extremely intense forest fires, surface nuclear detonations, heavy snowstorms, in large hurricanes and, obviously, thunderstorms.

Overall lightning strikes the United States about 25 million times a year. Although the odds of being struck by lightning in any given year are only around 1 in 500,000, you do not want to be the one.

According to the National Weather Service storm data, during the past 30 years (19892018) the U.S. has averaged 43 reported lightning fatalities per year. Only about 10 percent of the people struck by lightning are killed, the rest are left with various degrees of neurological damage and disability.

Lightning can strike just about anything tall, including trees, domestic and wild animals and humans. However, trees do seem to be a frequent target. Contrary to popular

opinion, there is no “safe” location outdoors. People have been struck in sheds and makeshift shelters. However, shelter is possible within an enclosure of conductive material such as an automobile Lightning strikes thousands of trees each year. When lightning does strike a tree, it will leave a reminder of the visit.

Trees are frequent conductors of lightning to the ground. Since sap is a poor conductor, its electrical resistance causes it to be heated explosively into steam, which blows off the bark outside the lightning’s path. In following seasons trees overgrow the damaged area and may cover it completely, leaving only a vertical scar. If the damage was severe, the tree may not be able to recover and decay sets in, eventually killing the tree.

Trees are natural lightning conductors and known to provide protection against lightning damage to nearby buildings by diverting lightning strikes away from nearby structures.

Each lightning strike can reach more than five miles in length and produce temperatures greater than 50,000 degrees Fahrenheit and an electrical charge of 100 million volts.

At any given moment, there are 1,800 thunderstorms in progress somewhere across the earth. Lightning detection systems in the United States sense an average of 25 million lightning strikes per year.

If outdoors when a storm approaches, you can slightly lessen the threat of being struck by lightning, but keep in mind that you are NOT safe outside.

When thunder roars, it is time to go indoors. Find a safe, enclosed shelter.

When a safe location is not nearby and you absolutely cannot get to safety, remember

these National Weather Service tips: 1. Avoid open fields, hilltops or a ridge top.

2. Stay away from tall, isolated trees or other tall objects. If you are in a forest, stay near a lower stand of trees.

3. If you are in a group, spread out to avoid the current traveling between group members.

4. If you are camping, a tent offers NO protection from lighting; move to a valley, ravine or other low area.

5. Stay away from water, wet items and metal objects, such as fences and poles. Water and metal do not attract lightning but they are excellent conductors of electricity. The current from a lightning flash will easily travel for long distances.

If you are indoors, safe shelters include buildings with electricity and plumbing or metal-topped vehicles with the windows closed. Picnic shelters, dugouts and small buildings without plumbing or

electricity are not safe.

Below are some key National Weather Service safety tips for you, your pets and your home.

There are three main ways lightning enters structures: a direct strike, through wires or pipes that extend outside the structure or through the ground. Once in a structure, lightning can travel through the electrical, phone, plumbing and radio/television reception systems. Lightning can also travel through any metal wires or bars in concrete walls or flooring.

1. Stay off corded phones.

You can use cellular or cordless phones.

2. Don’t touch electrical equipment such as computers, TVs or cords. You can use remote controls safely.

3. Avoid plumbing. Do not wash your hands, take a shower or wash dishes.

4. Stay away from exterior windows and doors that might contain metal components leading from outside your home to the inside.

5. Stay off balconies, porches and out of open garages or carports.

6. Do not lie on concrete floors or lean against concrete walls.

7. Protect your pets: Dog houses are not safe shelters.

Dogs that are chained to trees or on metal runners are particularly vulnerable to lightning strikes.

8. Protect your property: Lightning generates electric surges that can damage electronic equipment some distance from the actual strike.

Typical surge protectors will not protect equipment from a lightning strike.

9. Do not unplug equipment during a thunderstorm, that increases the risk you could be struck.

Disaster Preparedness Guide 8C

SUNDAY, MAY 29, 2022 THE COASTLAND TIMES

NCDOT develops early flood warning system for roads Homeland Securit y’s Coastal Resilience Center of Excellence to receive forecast modeling data on how storm surge may affect the state’s road network in coastal areas.

Learn the components of a gauge in the video found here: youtube.com/ watch?v=23PIs9jwajs&feature=youtu.be.

Maintenance crews ready

This stream gauge over the Neuse River on NC 42 in Johnston County is one of several the NCDOT will rely on to gather data for a new early flood warning system.

When the next hurricane strikes, the North Carolina Department of Transportation has reported it will be armed with an advanced flood warning system that relies on a network of 400 river and stream gauges.

The new system will allow the NCDOT for the first time to analyze, map and communicate in real-time any flood risks to roads, bridges and culverts, stated a press release from NCDOT. This critical information will go to NCDOT maintenance staff responding to flooded roads and washed-out culverts and it will benefit local emergency management officials and the public accessing the department’s DriveNC.gov website for timely weather-related closures.

“This state-of-the-art warning system our department has created will

help us be better prepared for the next major storm,” said Transportation Secretary Eric Boyette. “Even though we’ve had some quiet hurricane seasons recently, we cannot let our guard down.”

“The last major storm to impact the state’s road network was Hurricane Florence in 2018,” stated the release. “Researchers at N.C. State University and the National Hurricane Center are predicting an above-average hurricane season, which officially starts June 1.”

Armada of flood gauges After Florence, the state legislature gave the NCDOT a $2 million grant to develop sophisticated software and install more flood gauges. The system, however, mostly taps into existing gauges operated by other agencies,

The NCDOT has been preparing for the hurricane season in other ways.

The agency has been reviewing procedures and conducting exercises internally and with partner agencies.

Some highway divisions

with coastal counties held employee training events in the spring to review response and recovery operations. All of the agency’s 14 highway divisions also have been taking inventory of supplies, doing maintenance on chainsaws and other equipment and readying emergency on-call contracts that will supplement what NCDOT employees do in responding to a storm.

Public preparations

State transportation officials remind people now is the time to prepare supplies for the possibility of an extended power outage, restricted traveling or the need to be at a shelter. North Carolina

Emergency Management maintains a comprehensive list of items to include in an emergency supply kit.

“After the storm has passed, people should remember to never drive through flooded waters or around barricades,” stated the NCDOT release.

“It only takes one foot of water to sweep a vehicle away.”

For more preparation tips, including evacuation routes and evacuation zones by coastal county, visit ReadyNC. org and watch the video found at youtube.com/ w a t c h ? v =T V2 D m i r D W6 8 & f e a t u r e = y o u t u . be on how to prepare for severe weather.

such as the N.C. Emergency Management and the U.S. Geological Survey, stated NCDOT. The system includes an interactive online dashboard and flood mapping based on three-dimensional ground surveys.

One part of the new early flood warning system covers almost 3,000 miles of state-maintained roads, mostly east of Interstate 95.

The system also will allow NCDOT to monitor f lood conditions for some 15,000 bridges and culverts statewide. The agency’s Hydraulics Unit has been fine-tuning the system and training staff on it with smaller storms over the past year.

In addition, the NCDOT has formed a recent partnership with the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Renaissance Computing Institute and the U.S. Department of

Serving the Outer Banks and protecting the livelihood of our neighbors since 1973.

Manteo – 252-473-3930 503 Cypress Lane, Manteo NC Kitty Hawk – 252-261-4684 3900 N Croatan Highway, Kitty Hawk, NC

Disaster Preparedness Guide

SUNDAY, MAY 29, 2022

9C

THE COASTLAND TIMES

Hurricane, from 1C can destroy buildings and manufactured homes, rip apart signs, lift off roofing material and convert almost any item left outside into a flying missile.

While locals often know the threat hurricanes can pose, many tend to be a bit apathetic. History has shown, however, that it only takes one storm to change lives and communities.

Evacuations are only called for when the lives and safety of those in the area being evacuated will be a risk. With seasonal increases in population and limited access on and off the barrier islands, major traffic delays will occur during evacuations. Once an evacuation has been called, to ensure your personal safety gather your belongings and leave as soon as possible. In addition to protecting yourself, doing so will save a significant amount of time in traffic while helping emergency officials as they prepare for or respond to the incident.

If you go, know where to go. If ordered to evacuate, know the local hurricane evacuation route(s) to take and have a plan for where you can stay. Because Dare County has only two evacuation routes – Highway 64 West to Tyrrell County and Highway 158 North to Currituck – evacuations can cause major traffic delays. If leaving, make sure to gather belongings and depart in an orderly manner as soon as possible.

Dare County Emergency Management encourages residents and visitors to consider using Highway 64 West, especially those evacuating from Hatteras Island, Nags Head and Roanoke Island. Traffic backups on Highway 158 will occur as traffic from the northern Outer Banks

and surrounding counties converge onto Highway 158. Highway 64 West has less congestion and traffic lights; allowing for constant speed. This route intersects Interstate 95 allowing travelers to head north or south to their desired destination. While this route may appear longer on a map or GPS, it is typically faster than evacuating via Highway 158.

There are no American Red Cross approved shelters in Dare County. Inland shelter locations will be broadcast on local media and Current TV as the storm approaches.

• Take blankets or sleeping bags, flashlights, special dietary foods, infant needs and lightweight folding chairs.

• Register every person arriving with you at the shelter.

• Do not take pets, alcoholic beverages or weapons of any kind to shelters.

• Be prepared to offer assistance to shelter workers if necessary and stress to all family members their obligations to keep the shelter clean and sanitary.

Whether you plan to evacuate or stay put, part of the preparation process is to pack an emergency kit with some basic staples like food and water along with any supplies unique to your needs, such as medications or, if appropriate, baby formula.

Water is a key ingredient to any survival plan. Power outages could – and often do – interrupt regular water sources. If possible, store at least three gallons of water per person with enough to last three days.

Additional water for flushing toilets could be stored in a bathtub or in buckets.

If there is the potential you could be isolated for more than three days, consider adding an extra gallon or two per person per day.

Cash is king. During

storm outages, debit and credit cards can become virtually useless. Keep in mind that if banks and ATMs are shut down, you may not be able to access any currency.

Make sure you have enough prescription or over-the-counter medications like pain relievers and antacids.

Non-refrigerated foods can be lifesavers. A threeday supply of canned foods and dry mixes are good for starters, but try to avoid those thirst-inducing foods like salty corn chips. Don’t forget hand-operated can openers and any special dietary needs of those with you. To help cut down on the need for wash water, it’s also a good idea to have some paper goods such as plates and cups as well as some plastic utensils.

A first aid kit, flashlight(s), blankets and battery-operated radio with NOAA weather reception are recommended items.

Extra batteries always prove beneficial during power outages. Portable generators are extremely helpful, but if wired into the household electrical system, make sure it is not back-feeding power into the grid.

Key documents such as identification cards, passport, Social Security cards and insurance policies need waterproof, easy-tocarry containers.

If you are evacuated, once the storm has passed, there is a re-entry process.

Dare County Emergency Management officials urge residents, business owners and non-resident property owners to make sure they have the proper re-entry credentials prior to a hurricane impacting the area. Delay returning until recommended or authorized by local authorities. A staged re-entry process will be used by the Dare County Control

Group to facilitate an orderly re-entry.

The Dare County website advises that no one with proper identification will be denied entry.

Proper Identification includes driver’s license with Dare County address, current tax bill or parcel data sheet with matching current government issued ID or a valid re-entry permit.

It is important to note that no re-entry permits are issued within 72 hours of expected landfall of a storm on the Outer Banks.

Re-entry passes from previous years will not be accepted.

Re-entry stages following a disaster include: • Priority One: Essential personnel with a Priority One Critical Personnel Pass issued by the Dare County Control Group.

• Priority Two: Permanent residents and essential personnel for critical businesses with a NC driver’s license with a Dare County address or a tax bill with a matching government issued identification, or Priority Two permit with government issued identification.

• Priority Three: Non-resident property owners and non-resident employees of non-critical businesses with a non-resident re-entry permit or Dare County tax bill with government issued identification matching the name on the tax record or a Priority Three permit with government issued identification.

• Priority Four: General public and visitors; re-entry passes are not needed.

Tax bills can be accessed by going to darenc. com and searching to find your property by name, address or parcel number. Once property is located, click on the tax bill icon and print the record.

Be sure the name on the tax bill matches the name

on your government issued identification.

For more information regarding re-entry, visit darenc.com/reentry or contact Dare County Emergency Management at 252-475-5655, Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For comprehensive hurricane preparedness information, visit ncready.org.

For updated information regarding the status of all roads and bridges in Dare County and across North Carolina, visit tims.ncdot. gov/tims or call 877-3684968. For up to date information regarding the status of NC 12, visit facebook.com/NCDOTNC12.

Residents and visitors can contact Dare County Emergency Management by calling 252-4755655 or visiting darenc. c o m /d e p a r t m e n t s/ emergency-management.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration recommends anyone in the potential path of severe weather take steps as soon as possible to prepare for potential hurricane conditions.

The list of North Carolina hurricanes includes 413 known tropical or subtropical cyclones that have affected the state. Due to our location, a number of hurricanes have hit the state directly with numerous other hurricanes passing nearby. In fact, North Carolina ranks fourth behind Florida, Texas and Louisiana in the number of cyclones that produced hurricane force winds.

Historically, the largest number of recorded storms affecting North Carolina come in September with the highest storm death toll from an 1857 unnamed storm that resulted in 424 deaths. Overall hurricanes in North Carolina history have been responsible for more than $11 billion in damage and close to

1,000 fatalities.

That’s why developing an evacuation plan, assembling disaster kits and strengthening home and business structures is so important.

For those who want to stay informed, Dare County Emergency Management has the ability to send emergency alerts to residents, visitors and property owners via text, email and over the phone.

To sign up, go to smart911. com/smar t911/ref/reg. action?pa=darenc.

Important contacts: Dare County Emergenc y Management 252-475-5655 Cur r it uck Count y Emergency Management 252-232-2115 Tyrrell County Emergenc y Management 252-796-4516 Hyde County Emergenc y Management 252-542-0806 NC Highway Patrol 800-441-6127 Po i s o n C ont rol 800-222-1222 SPCA (Animal Shelter) 252-475-5620 Attorney General’s Office 877-5-NO-SCAM (price gouging), 919-716-6400 NC Food Protection Division 877-FOOD-644 (food safety), 877-366-3644 Road Conditions: NC DOT 511 or 877-DOT4YOU, 877-638-4968 Virginia DOT 800-367-7623 Fer r y Ser v ice 800-BY-FERRY Utility Companies: Dominion/NC Power 866 -DOM-HELP, 866-366-4357 Cape Hatteras Electric 866-511-9862, 252-9955616, 800-454-5616 Tideland Electric (Mainland) 800-637-1079, 252-943-3046 C e n t u r y L i n k 800-788-3600 Spectrum 833-267-6094 Dare County Water 252-475-5990

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Disaster Preparedness Guide

SUNDAY, MAY 29, 2022

10C

THE COASTLAND TIMES

Insurance after a storm

By Philip S. Ruckle Jr. philip.ruckle@ thecoastlandtimes.com

Anyone who has been on the Outer Banks for any length of time will know that storms are a way of life here.

As we approach the start of the 2022 hurricane season we all know some residents who elect to sit out a weather event while many others choose to evacuate.

No matter which group you identify with you could suffer damages from a storm.

According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, if you suffer damages from a weather event there are a number of actions everyone can undertake toward a smoother recovery.

First on the list is to understand what insurance coverage you have, your potential risks and what to do in the event of significant storm damage.

Chip Phillips, president of Island Insurance at Chesley Mall in Manteo, suggests making a record of your property and possessions before anything happens.

“Stand in the middle of each room with your cell phone and do a 360 of everything in the room,” said Phillips. “That way if in the event of a claim you can say ‘I lost my this, and here it is, or I lost my that and here it is’. Copies of receipts from when you originally made a purchase will help with this.”

Phillips said he generally prefers video over photos because, although photos are easier to submit, a video can record a lot more detail. The important thing is to document

everything, with photographs or video.

Once a storm passes, our instinct often tells us our next step is to clean everything up. As important as that might be, it is equally important to have an accurate account of any damages for your insurance company in the event you do file a claim. Before removing any debris or belongings, document your losses. Take photos or make a video and then make a list of the damages and any lost items.

After thoroughly documenting any damages, take reasonable steps to avoid further destruction to your home or belongings. This is called mitigation. You can make temporary repairs, such as covering a hole in your roof or boarding up broken windows. Insurance will typically reimburse the cost of these repairs as part of your claim, assuming the original loss was covered.

Your company may also reimburse you if you need to find temporary lodging or storage for your possessions. Keep a record of all receipts.

“If you must move damaged items to prevent further damage, keep them handy,” explained Phillips. “When an adjuster comes, he has to inspect the damage. If you replace shingles that blew off and you throw away the old damaged ones, an adjuster would have grounds to deny the claim because he had no actual damage to inspect. When people tear out stuff and throw it away they can’t prove they had any damage.”

Of course, not every disaster results in enough damage to file a claim.

A review of your insurance documents to determine what your deductible is before calling in a claim will help determine if a claim is warranted.

“If two shingles blew off with a $5,000 wind deductible it might not be worth filing that claim,” added Phillips. “Know what to expect.”

Once you decide there is a valid claim you should contact your agent or company as soon as possible.

turn calls an adjuster.

“You call your agent to assist with the claim,” Phillips continued. “And you can use your agent as an advocate, but the final check and all the decisions are made by the adjuster.”

Once an adjuster has completed the assessment, documentation of any losses will be sent to your insurance company for a settlement. When you do get paid, it could involve more than one check. In

“Always use respectable people for the repairs. Not some fly-by-night operation, obviously.”

— Chip Phillips

president of Island Insurance at Chesley Mall in Manteo Most insurance companies have a time requirement for reporting any claims and the clock is ticking. Your insurance agent can help you determine what damages are covered and start your claim.

When reporting losses, you will need your insurance information, current contact information and a home inventory or list of damaged and lost property.

After reporting your damages, your insurance company will send a claims adjuster to review and assess the damages.

The adjuster will inspect any damaged items and temporary repairs you may have made at no additional cost to you.

Phillips said an adjuster has a different license from an insurance agent’s license, so when you call your agent, the agent in

some cases, an emergency advance can be issued with additional payments for the contents of your home and other personal property. If there is a mortgage on your home, any payments for structural damage may be payable to you and your mortgage lender. Lenders may put that money into an escrow account and pay for repairs as the work is completed.

If repairs are needed, be alert to fraudulent contractors looking to make some quick money by taking advantage of victims.

“Always use respectable people for the repairs,” Phillips cautioned. “Not some fly-by-night operation, obviously.”

Asking friends and family for references can help narrow the field.

“Out of town workers are okay as long as they are reputable,” added Phillips.

“But after the job is done and the adjuster is gone, can you get them back two months later to fix a defect on something they did earlier? Can you get them back to fix what they fixed?”

Phillips went on to say getting more than one estimate while waiting for the adjuster can help. Then, when the adjuster says what they think it costs, you can provide some prices from local contractors.

If you experience significant storm damage to your property, be careful not to sign over your benefits.

Some contractors may ask for permission to speak on your behalf with your insurance company. Read the fine print before you sign. Otherwise, you may inadvertently sign over your benefits and any extra money allowed to you after your claim.

While Insurance policy benefits are contractual rights belonging to the insured, an assignment of benefits is a document signed by a policyholder that allows a third party – such as a water extraction company, a roofer or a plumber – to “stand in the shoes” of the insured and seek direct payment from the insurance company. An AOB is generally valid in North Carolina although there are prohibitions on the transferability of some rights.

In general practice, however, once an AOB is signed, any rights or benefits of the policy will go to that third party. That means if it costs $2,000 to repair your roof and your claim is more than that, technically that third party is entitled to the rest of that money.

T her e are no

requirements to sign an AOB to have repairs completed. You can file a claim directly with your insurance company, which allows you to maintain control of the rights and benefits provided by your policy in resolving the claim.

There is a word of caution when considering an AOB. Several states, such as Florida, have reported an influx of predatory contractors who seek out homeowners who have a loss covered by their policy. AOB abuse has resulted in an additional $1 billion of inflated insurance claims over recent years with costs eventually passed along to all homeowners through higher rates.

North Carolina law requires an insurer within 30 calendar days after receipt of a claim to either pay a claim or send a notice to the claimant. The notice must state all the specific good faith reason or reasons for the denial, including benefit limitations, coordination of benefits, lack of eligibility or lack of coverage for the services provided.

If you need more information, or you think that your insurer is not responding in a timely manner or completing a reasonable investigation of your claim, contact the North Carolina Department of Insurance at 325 N Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27603, or call 855-4081212. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Additional information on disaster preparedness can also be found at www. ncdoi.com and at InsureUonline.org.