Nova Scotians Urged to Stay Indoors During Storm

As Hurricane Earl moves across Nova Scotia, Emergency Management Officials are urging Nova Scotians to stay indoors during the storm.

Hurricane Earl is a large, powerful storm and will likely be felt across the province.

Hurricane watches remain in effect for Halifax, Lunenburg, Queens, Shelburne and Yarmouth counties. A hurricane watch for Guysborough County has been issued. A h urricane watch for Digby has ended.

Tropical storm warnings are in effect for the entire province.

As of 9 a.m. today, Sept. 4, data from Environment Canada showed that maximum wind gusts could reach 130 kilometres an hour.

To facilitate the movement of emergency first responders and utility crews, people are asked to avoid going out and to stay off the roads during and after the storm.

If travel is completely necessary, slow down and be cautious of flooding and debris like downed power lines and tree branches. Before heading out, check for road closures by calling 511 or visiting http://gov.ns.ca/tran .

EMO is working with a network of regional and municipal emergency managers across the province, co-ordinating closely with the private sector, utility and not-for-profit partners.

Crews from the province's utilities are standing by and preparing to address any service interruptions that may be caused by the storm. Extra crews have been moved into areas expected to be most affected.

The Department of Health advises that the Good Neighbour Protocol has been activated. This will allow unionized health-care workers to work in other jurisdictions where additional staff may be needed.

Remember that, as the eye of the hurricane passes over, there will be a lull in the wind for a short time. Stay in a safe place and make emergency repairs only. Once the eyes has passed, the winds will return from the opposite.

As always, Nova Scotians are advised to call 911 in an emergency situation and to have some basic supplies prepared, including an emergency kit and amenities to help cope with a power outage. If you require non-urgent or non-emergency health information, please call HealthLink 811.

For more information on preparing for and ensuring the safety of your family during a hurricane, visit the EMO website at www.gov.ns.ca/emo .