How 'Frankenstorm' Will Affect Upper St. Clair
Officials tell residents to prepare for a three-day power outage.
With "Frankenstorm" barreling its way up the East Coast, Halloween week is looking more like a trick than a treat for Upper St. Clair residents.
A lot of rain—and even some snow—is predicted to hit the area as Hurricane Sandy blows near. The Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency indicated that high winds and the risk of flooding may result in extensive damage to roads, streets, bridges and property.
Officials at the state, county and local level scrambled on Friday to prepare its residents.
Gov. Tom Corbett declared a state of disaster emergency for Pennsylvania.
Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald urged the public to be prepared for the storm—whether it be to stay in their homes during the duration, or to evacuate if it is recommended or ordered by local authorities.
“Residents should have enough provisions in their homes to last at least 72 hours because help from emergency responders may not be immediately available when severe weather strikes,” he stated.
The county Emergency Operations Center's Chief Alvin Henderson said, “At a minimum, residents should have the following on hand: flashlights and extra batteries; portable, battery-operated radio and extra batteries; first aid kit and manual; emergency food and water; non-electric can opener; essential medicines/prescriptions; cash, credit cards and important legal documents; and sturdy shoes.”
The American Red Cross Western Pennsylvania Region is preparing for the possibility of flooding and power outages in the area as a result of the storm. Volunteers and staff have been put on alert, supplies and resources are being inventoried and prepared, and preparations are being made for the possibility of opening shelters.
Upper St. Clair Public Works also spent Friday preparing for the storm, however, no one was available to comment to Patch.
Upper St. Clair Patch will continue to follow the latest storm developments. Send your tips to Editor Becky Brindle and upload your photos and videos to the media box above.
Those interested in following the path of the storm may also access the National Hurricane Center. The Red Cross website can be accessed here for preparedness tips.
