June 24, 2012 [Verbatim statement] PEARL – The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency continues to track and prepare for Tropical Storm Debby as it slowly moves north. The latest forecast cone from the National Hurricane Center includes much of the eastern part of our state.
“Even though the forecast continues to change we have been working behind the scenes for several days preparing for this storm,” said MEMA Director Robert Latham. “We have been coordinating with our southern counties, state agencies and our federal partners in order to be ready for any of the potential impacts from this storm. I hope our residents are doing the same and are prepared for Tropical Storm Debby.”
Forecasters from the National Weather Service say Debby could bring strong winds, heavy rainfall and above normal tides to the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Tides 3 to 5 feet above normal can be expected with flooding of some low-lying areas possible.
Earlier today MEMA Director Robert Latham participated in a teleconference with FEMA officials to discuss state preparedness activities and potential federal support should it be needed. MEMA has provided sand bags to the coast in order to protect some of those flood-prone areas. Liaisons have been deployed to each of the three coast counties to ensure they have quick access to state resources while members of the State Emergency Response Team are on standby to deploy if needed.
“I want the public to understand that regardless of the changes in the forecast, the state is in position to respond swiftly,” said Gov. Phil Bryant. “I have been communicating with emergency personnel in the coastal counties, and with MEMA Director Robert Latham, and we are prepared to support the local jurisdictions and ensure they have the resources to assist and protect the public.”
The forecast for this storm has changed with each update and that means all residents should treat this event as if it is going to make a direct hit on our coast. Know where you would go if you had to evacuate and make sure your disaster supply kit is fully stocked.
Residents should stay tuned to local media for forecast updates and important information from their local governments.
For preparedness information visit MEMA’s website at www.msema.org, and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
Previous Comments
Looks like the National Weather Service is giving us a “low” risk as the storm is turning toward the Florida panhandle, which is going to get beat up all week. Meanwhile we have 100 degrees to look forward to on Thursday according to the Weather channel; the JFP DoppelTweet3000 outlook pegs it at only 97 degrees. http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/weather/
#96 | Author: Todd Stauffer | Date: Jun 25 2012
