By now you’ve heard a lot about Hurricane Irene(that’s a NASA photo), which as of this writing has left widespread damage on at least two islands of the Bahamas.
Hurricanes are classified into five categories based on their wind speed, central pressure, and damage potential. Category Three and higher hurricanes are considered major hurricanes (though Categories One and Two are still extremely dangerous).
When it hit the Bahamas, Irene was a Category 3 hurricane with winds at 115 miles an hour. Forecasters said the winds will ramp up quickly over the next day and Irene was expected to become a Category 4 storm with winds at least 131 mph.
But forecasters said it was still unclear whether the major hurricane would score a direct hit on the U.S.including possible landfall Saturday in North Carolinaor stay offshore as it races up the coast, lashing several states with dangerous surf, powerful winds, and heavy rain.
A hurricane watch was issued early this morning (Thursday) for much of the North Carolina coast. A hurricane watch means hurricane conditions are possible within 36 hours. Also, a tropical storm watch was issued for much of South Carolina’s coast.
Dogsters all over the East Coast need to be prepared.
So have a flashlight and battery-operated radio handy, and start bracing for disaster – if you haven’t already.
Here are the key items of a pet disaster preparedness kit:
Water – at least 1 gallon daily per person/dog for 3 to 7 days
Food – at least enough canned and non-perishable packaged snack foods (treats)to last 3 to 7 days, plus a non-electric can opener
A first aid kit including your dog’s prescription medications
A fully charged cell phone; your smart phone could beyour bestfriendin a natural disaster such as a hurricane, with many appsavailable to help Dogsters cope
Important documents in a resealable plastic bag, including K9 identification, immunization records, a carrier (for smalldogs) and a leash
Moisture wipes(CleanWell makes excellent ones for the whole family, two- and four-legged,to share) andpoop bags
East Coast Dogsters, how are you coping with this impending disaster? Please share helpful tips andreminders in the comments.
