NEWS RELEASE
Tropical Depression 9 – Town of James Island Media Release #1
The Town of James Island participated in a Tri-County Conference Call earlier today to discuss the possible effects of Tropical Depression 9. The National Weather Service gave a briefing and confirmed the Tropical Depression is very likely to strengthen into a Tropical Storm by the end of today as it makes landfall on the west coast of Florida and moves northwest through Georgia and South Carolina. Heavy rains are likely to begin by midnight on Thursday evening and last throughout the first part of the day on Friday. The Charleston area is expected to receive 4-7 inches of rain and experience wind gusts of 45 to 55 miles per hour. The worst of the rain is expected to be Friday morning, and with high tide at 9:22 am Friday morning flash flooding is likely so residents are urged to stay home on Friday. Possible school and bridge closings will be announced as more information becomes available. There is also a low risk for tornados on Friday into the evening hours. Please make preparations by securing any loose items outdoors and have emergency supplies ready in the event we experience a loss of power due to the high winds and falling tree limbs.
The Town will continue to monitor the situation and send out regular updates as more information becomes available.
Other important information:
2016 Charleston County Hurricane guide: http://bit.ly/HurricaneGuide2016High Wind and Bridge policy: http://www.charlestoncounty.org/departments/emergency-management/files/bridgeprocedureshighwinds.pdf
Definition of OPCON levels: http://www.charlestoncounty.org/departments/emergency-management/opcon.php
Charleston County Citizen Alert System: Charleston County residents can register for the Charleston County Citizen Alert System, a free program that allows the public to receive voicemail, text message, and e-mail notifications about emergency situations.
Register online at: https://member.everbridge.net/index/453003085611698#/login