Hurricane Irene Expected to Reach into Central Massachusetts
August 26, 2011: Hurricane season has begun, and it is starting with a fury. Hurricane Irene is expected to make a grand entrance late this weekend, and if the weather forecasters are correct, she will wreak havoc in most of the east coast states. In fact, the weather experts say that her winds and rains may be felt as far out as 200 miles from the eye of the storm.
In Massachusetts, we usually experience some of the tail-end effects of hurricanes, often after they have been downgraded to tropical storm status. However, last night, I saw a broadcast that showed Irene's expected course will drive right through downtown Manhattan and up to Massachusetts. She is expected to pass to the west of Boston, a surprising path for a hurricane and something that those of us in Central Massachusetts need to watch closely.
Already, residents in this area are stocking up on bottled water and non-perishable foods. We can expect power outages and flooding. When Hurricane Katrina was in force, we had roads that were flooded so badly they were closed for days. I was out showing properties, and vividly remember opening the cellar door on a house and finding 3 feet of water in the basement.
Please alert any people you know who may not be tuned into the weather report. Gather your supplies and prepare to be in a safe place on Sunday and Monday, August 28 and 29. Having survived the tornado of June 1st, we know what needs to be done. This time, thank goodness, we have fair warning.
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