Pennsylvania Declaration of State of Emergency

[tomboudreau]

The governor has declared a State of Emergency...here is the text of what was said.

GOVERNOR RENDELL DECLARES STATEWIDE DISASTER EMERGENCY IN ANTICIPATION OF HURRICANE ISABEL

HARRISBURG: Gov. Edward G. Rendell today issued a proclamation declaring a state of disaster emergency in Pennsylvania due to the approach of Hurricane Isabel.

"Current forecasts predict that Hurricane Isabel could cause significant inland flooding, damaging winds and possible tornadoes throughout the Commonwealth," Governor Rendell said. "This state of emergency will make state resources available to respond anywhere in Pennsylvania should the need arise. Pennsylvanians should listen to their local governments and local news media for actions that are appropriate for their area."

By proclaiming a disaster emergency, the Governor authorizes state resources to help storm-affected communities and empowers county and local officials to take those steps necessary to assist in the recovery process without the normal time constraints imposed by law. This includes hiring, leasing and purchasing of equipment, setting aside the usual bid requirements, and transferring funds between local government accounts.

State government offices will be open on Friday; however liberal leave policies are in effect for state employees under the Governor's jurisdiction. Non-essential employees should carefully consider weather and road conditions for traveling to and returning from work on Friday, Sept. 19. Non-essential employees should use good judgment and, depending on circumstances, are encouraged to use annual or personal leave for the day. Management is being directed to be accommodating and flexible in allowing leave usage.

The Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA) has increased staff at the State Emergency Operations Center (EOC) with liaison officers from state agencies and other affiliated organizations. The Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania National Guard, state Department of Transportation and state Department of Environmental Protection have additional personnel on standby to respond to areas that may be impacted by the storm. In addition, the state Public Utility Commission is engaged on-site at the Emergency Operations Center to coordinate and facilitate power restoration.

In addition, Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency Director Sanko advised citizens to prepare now for high winds, potential flooding and disruption of power along the hurricane's expected path. The following information can help Pennsylvanians get ready for the effects of Hurricane Isabel:

* Bring in garbage cans, lawn furniture or other items that could be blown around by high winds and become dangerous projectiles or transportation hazards.

* Prepare for extended power outages of three to seven days by stocking up on flashlights, batteries, non-perishable foods, water, prescription medications and other necessary items.

* Remain indoors and stay away from windows and glass doors when heavy winds approach your area.

* Stay tuned to your local Emergency Alert System station for news and weather reports as this dangerous storm approaches Pennsylvania.

"My thanks to the county and community officials and our state agencies who continue to work with PEMA's staff to prepare for this storm," said Director Sanko.
Additional disaster information can be found on the PEMA website at http://www.pema.state.pa.us or by calling county emergency management agencies.

Content Last Modified on 9/18/2003 12:37:25 PM

[JCT777]

I knew it would happen sooner or later. It's probably good that it happened now, since there will probably be flooding and wind damage, esp. in the western half of PA. There is also a risk of tornados late tonight and early tomorrow in parts of eastern PA.

[Colin]

It's looking great for Eastern PA...most of the rain will stay in Western PA. Look for scattered showers in E PA...nothing more than that, maybe an isolated storm here and there.

[Rainband]

You guys stay safe.. Seems like my sister in Montoursville will be ok