Province urging you to be ready for Hurricane Fiona

The provincial government wants you to be ready for Hurricane Fiona.

Officials are reminding Nova Scotians to minimize the risk of property damage and personal injury by being prepared for potentially severe weather this weekend.

Current forecast models indicate Fiona could merge with another system as it approaches the province, with heavy rainfall beginning Friday.

Nova Scotians should prepare as strong winds, heavy rain and storm surges can cause power outages, flooding and significant damage.

Municipal Affairs and Housing Minister John Lohr says being prepared is the best thing we can do in a storm.

“With Fiona heading our way, it’s important to take steps to prepare before the storm hits. Working together, we can weather the storm.”

You should monitor local weather forecasts and be ready for the storm’s arrival.

The basic checklist includes:

• having enough food and water for 72 hours

• monitoring local media outlets for updates

• securing gates, doors and windows

• moving yard furniture and securing trash cans, hanging plants and anything that can be picked up by wind

• checking radio batteries

• filling vehicles with gas and parking them away from trees

• keeping pets inside

• moving any type of watercraft to high ground

• ensuring personal and family safety

• checking on neighbours

• not leaving candles unattended.

NSEMO is working with Environment Canada, other provincial departments, municipal emergency management offices and other partners to gather information and identify possible local risk areas in advance of the approaching storm.