Hurricane Watch and Tropical Storm Warning Issued
Get ready South Florida!
As of 8:00 AM this morning, we have a storm brewing off shore and it looks like it wants to come visit us on the East Coast of Florida by mid week. We can keep our fingers crossed that it will be mild and go north of us, but always be prepared because these storms are unpredictable and we are too close to the cone to put our guard down. As we saw a few months ago with Hurricane Ian on the West Coast, a little early preparation can save lives and property…
From the official City of Hollywood website….
A Hurricane Watch, Storm Surge Watch and Tropical Storm Warning has been issued for the east coast of Florida, including the City of Hollywood. Hurricane conditions are possible within the watch area in Florida by Wednesday night with tropical storm conditions expected by Tuesday night. While Nicole’s forecast tract has shifted north and the three-day forecast cone no longer includes Hollywood, tropical storm conditions including winds in excess of 39mph are expected in our area within the next 36 hours. Storm-related impacts are expected to include rough surf, coastal and low-lying street level flooding, periods of heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and beach erosion.
With the addition of seasonal King Tides, water could reach 2 to 4 feet above ground if peak surge occurs at the time of high tide. Additionally, 3 to 5 inches of rainfall, with a maximum of 7 inches is anticipated for the Florida Peninsula. Large swells generated by Nicole will also affect the east coast and are likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions.
Residents are encouraged to stay tuned to trusted news providers like the US National Weather Service Miami Florida and the NOAA NWS National Hurricane Center for the latest information on this system and take any needed preparations to be storm ready. Those who live in low-lying areas in the eastern portions of Hollywood, or those who reside in a dwelling at an elevated risk of flooding should consider seeking alternative shelter until after the storm passes.
Garbage Collection Information
Residents should refrain from cutting trees or doing additional landscaping projects until after this storm passes. Sanitation collections will continue on a regular collection schedule until further notice. Property owners are asked to secure garbage and recycling carts immediately after collection and for the duration of the storm.
Cancellations
Several City-sponsored events have been canceled through this weekend. Please be sure to check the website calendar for the latest event information.
Storm Preparations Underway
To prepare for the possibility of severe weather including heavy rainfall that could coincide with high tides and gusty winds, City crews are taking the following steps:
- Public Works crews are deploying barricades and flood safety signage as a precautionary measure along State Road A1A on Hollywood Beach and in parts of Hollywood Lakes (North and South Lake, areas near the Intracoastal Waterway.) If possible, avoid driving in these low-lying areas. When these roadways become inundated, it is very difficult to see the roadway to distinguish it from the Lake or Intracoastal, and maintain control of the vehicle to safely navigate passage.
- Public Utilities crews are checking all primary and auxiliary pumps to ensure they are working properly and will be checking and clearing storm drains.
- Police patrol units are monitoring roadways in flood prone areas.
- While utilities crews will be checking and clearing storm drains, residents who are able can assist by ensuring that storm drains near their homes remain cleared throughout the week.
Reminder: Flood Safety Information
- Motorists should not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Floodwaters can damage your vehicle and prevent you from seeing safety hazards in the roadway.
- Use caution with electrical appliances, electrical cords and outlets if floodwaters have entered your home.
- Residents should not go outside or wade in standing flood water, which can contain contaminants. Following a heavy storm, sharp debris and other items from overturned garbage bins could be hidden in the water and cause injury. Standing water also may contain harmful bacteria that could cause infection.
- Health officials remind the public to not let children or pets play in flood water.
- Call 911 if flood damage to your home has created an emergency situation such as a fire.
- Residents should have their homeowner’s insurance information and flood insurance information readily available. If you experience flood damage, seek advice from your insurer on documenting the damage and drying out your home. The same applies for contacting your vehicle insurance provider if you find your vehicle has been damaged.
More information and updates available at https://hollywoodfl.org/