Keeping an eye out for tropical storm Kyle

The provincial Emergency Management Office (EMO) is advising the public to take the necessary precautions as tropical storm Kyle approaches the Maritimes.

"Although Environment Canada expects this storm to track towards New Brunswick, these storms are unpredictable," Carolyn Bolivar-Getson, Emergency Management Minister, said Friday.

"The best way to keep our families safe is to be prepared for any potential impacts from storms like Kyle."

EMO is monitoring the storm closely. Kyle is expected to make landfall near Saint John, N.B., Sunday night or early Monday.

According to a statement issued by the Canadian Hurricane Centre of Environment Canada in Dartmouth at 9 p.m. on Friday, warnings for the Maritimes have not yet been issued. Indications were that rain and wind from Kyle may be delayed until Sunday evening. Tropical systems similar to Kyle typically bring 50-100 mm of rainfall mainly to locations left of the track of the storm thus bringing the heavy rainfall threat to New Brunswick.

Although Kyle is likely to begin its weakening trend as it approaches the Maritimes Sunday evening, wind gusts to tropical storm force (90 km/h) are likely and hurricane force wind gusts (120 km/h) are still possible.

Given the track of Kyle on Friday, both wind and rain will be an issue for the Maritimes beginning Sunday and into Monday. Rain associated with a frontal system over New England is expected to push into New Brunswick well ahead of Kyle, which will augment the total rainfall amounts, thus increasing the chance of localized flooding.

Storm surge and high waves could be an issue for western Atlantic coastal Nova Scotia.

"One of the most important things individuals can do is listen for updated weather information or public safety bulletins and act accordingly," said Craig MacLaughlan, deputy head and CEO of the Emergency Measures Office.

Other ways to prepare for a weather-related emergency:

-- Maintain an emergency kit, including food, a supply of water, clothing, blankets medication, a flashlight, battery-powered radio, extra batteries, and a first aid kit.

-- Have cash on hand in case of a prolonged power outage.

-- Prepare freezer packs by placing water-filled soda or plastic milk containers in your deep freezer. These can be used to help keep the freezer and/or refrigerator cold in the event of a power outage.

-- Choose a shelter area away from windows for you and your family. A basement, storm cellar or closet beneath the stairs can provide a good shelter in a severe storm.

-- Choose a meeting place for family members and set up some form of communication to notify each other of whereabouts and safety.

-- Make arrangements to help a senior or other person in the neighbourhood who may need added assistance.

-- Secure objects on your property that could be torn loose or blown around. Protect your home as much as possible from heavy rains and floods.

-- Refrain from going to coastal areas to watch a severe storm. This can be very dangerous.

People can visit the EMO website at www.gov.ns.ca for more information on emergency preparedness.