Irma Downgraded to Tropical Storm But Flooding Remains a Threat

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2017 as of 4:00 PM EST

The NOAA National Hurricane Center reported that Tropical Storm Irma continues to weaken as the storm moves into Southern Georgia. Although the downgrade to a tropical storm status implies a less severe threat than a hurricane status, Irma continues to pose threats of flooding to Northern Florida and the areas in the storm’s path.

FEMA also cautioned residents impacted by Irma to heed the guidance of local officials and only to return home if directed to do so.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also provided guidance about what to do after a hurricane, cautioning residents of the hazards and bacteria that can be present in flood waters.

PUBLIC ADVISORIES

• Here’s the breakdown of public advisories from NOAA’s National Hurricane Center (NHC) 2:00 PM EST, September 11, 2017 Update:
  • Storm Surge Warning is in effect for:
    • South Santee River southward to the Flagler/Volusia County line
    • North of Anna Maria Island to the Ochlockonee River
    • Tampa Bay
  • A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for:
    • North of the Suwannee River to the Okaloosa/Walton County Line
    • North of the Flagler/Volusia County line to the South Santee River
• For all current updates, please refer to products from your local weather service.

EMERGENCY RESOURCES

• FEMA Assistance: Link
• If entering a flooded area or returning to a flooded property, consult the Red Cross Returning Home Checklist
• National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster: link
• Americares: link
• Remember, Ready.gov provides information on how to prepare for a storm and how to keep you and your family safe: link

Hagerty Consulting is an emergency management consulting firm that helps our clients prepare for and recover from disasters. Established in 2001, Hagerty Consulting’s work includes some of the nation’s largest recovery and preparedness projects in more than 30 states, including 9/11, Hurricane Katrina, and Hurricane Sandy.

You can learn more about our disaster recovery practice here.