Hurricane Irene...

       As most of you already know, a category 1 hurricane is going to hit the east coast this weekend. Every news channel and radio station are talking about the impact of this hurricane on our area. This hurricane will blow through full force, originating in Puerto Rico, now traveling the coasts of Delaware, Rhode Island, North Carolina, New York, Connecticut, and New Jersey. Governor Chris Christie of New Jersey issued a mandatory evacuation off the coast of New Jersey, which will be hit with full force. My family's summer home is just one block away from the shore in Ocean Grove, NJ. NYC as well as Long Island have been issued evacuations. State emergencies have been mandated and bridges located in NY have been closed. Many college students move into dorms and start classes this week but due to inclement conditions, many of these dates have been post-poned.
   Now, a lot of people believe this hurricane is mostly hype and that we will not be hit as badly as they say. People are anxiously awaiting the storm, rushing to the grocery store buying supplies for their homes, emptying the shelves of super stores such as Wal-Mart. Each story is different and changing about the effects and nature of this storm. The latest update I have heard is that in NY and NJ there will be 60 mph winds which will last for 12 hours. The storm was supposed to begin around 8pm eastern time and mostly hit the Hudson Valley area and the city in New York.
     What you should expect: I have never been in a hurricane, or one this large at least, in my lifetime because I am an eastern girl. But I do know from what I have seen occur in other places around the world and country winds will be extremely high, trees and free floating debris from houses and excessive flooding will occur. It will make driving conditions impossible, as well as visibility. Flights will be delayed as well as transit authorities. Power outages will affect millions and you can prepare to be without it for days maybe weeks due to the high amount of grids and lines that are down.
     Here is what you need to do: Although this is basic stuff, just remember to stay indoors and get as far away from windows as you can. Stay in a closet, or bathroom without windows, or a basement. Keep flashlights, water, food, and first aid kits handy, a radio/ tv and loved ones nearby. Keep a close watch on the radar on a news station or radio, and try not to panic! You can expect to see live coverage of news for days to come, and sadly, news of those who have been injured and yes, even killed during this storm. (5 have already lost their lives to Irene)
         When it is all over, your backyard and even house, may look like a war zone but if you and your family are  safe and sound, that is all that matters. Remember, houses can be rebuilt and material items replaced. A person can not. So, please be safe and God bless. I will try to keep you updated on how it is over here. Peace <3