Hurricane Update (from Gov. Patrick)

According to the most up to date forecasts, Hurricane Earl is now expected to pass within 20 miles of Nantucket as a Category 3 hurricane.  It will bring with it hurricane-force winds and heavy rainfall to the Cape and Islands, and tropical force-winds with hurricane force gusts to Buzzards Bay, Plymouth, and the southeastern coast of Massachusetts as far north as Hull.  We expect strong rip currents and high seas throughout the weekend.

We expect the full impact by late Friday night and to last until early Saturday morning.

Based on the current forecast, I have declared a state of emergency for the Commonwealth.  I have mobilized the National Guard, and have requested a federal emergency declaration from the President.

We are doing everything possible to keep people safe.  We have pre-positioned water and other commodities, equipment, and personnel on the Cape and Islands.  Public shelters have been designated and are being supplied.  Extra utility crews and repair equipment will be pre-positioned to respond to service interruptions.  Debris clearing crews will be on scene to respond as quickly as possible.

The level of communication and coordination among the state agencies, and between state, federal, and local agencies has been exceptional.

I urge you to take the following steps and precautions:

· If you are traveling to or from the Cape and Islands this weekend, be off the roads and inside by Friday afternoon through at least Saturday morning.  If you plan to start your travel on Saturday, check media reports for travel conditions before you start out.

· If you commute or work in the affected area, plan your travel accordingly.

· If you do not live in the affected area in a low-lying area prone to flooding, plan to shelter in place.  That means stay indoors, with windows and doors closed, have a day’s supply of water and non-perishable food, a flashlight and batteries, and any necessary medications.  If you live in a low-lying area that is prone to flooding make plans to relocate to a safe place or, if you have no alternative, to shelter in a public shelter.

· Please check on elderly or disabled neighbors to make sure they are provided for.

Do not panic.  We are well prepared and well coordinated.  But take this seriously and be prepared.  Mother Nature can change course quickly and we will do everything possible to keep you informed with new information as we get it.

You can turn to www.mass.gov/mema for additional information.  Thanks and take care.

Governor Deval Patrick