Alex Paunic’s Post

Can you believe how many record breaking storms Houstonians and southeast Texas have faced in the last 20 years? I have my list of those that broke records below, if you think of others, please comment at the bottom! At MetTel, we are working with the Federal Government and Enterprise clients with locations in hurricane prone areas to analyze their current network and determine the level of redundancy needed for business continuity. Hurricane Beryl was a Cat 1 storm and it caused significant network outages in Houston and beyond that caught many by surprise. As we face the prospects of Francine reaching the US Gulf Coast in the next few days, it's another reminder of the importance of preparation. MetTel is not just providing value to our clients, we are providing a path forward for your clients when their clients and patients need them most. Think of the last 20 years, where Houston and the Southeast Texas area have seen several record breaking storms. The three that come to my mind: Hurricane Rita (September, 2005): What is believed to be the largest mass evacuation in US history and the most intense tropical cyclone on record in the Gulf. I remember USNORTHCOM driving buses full of critical patients and the elderly onto buses at the regional airport and literally securing the buses in the planes and taking off. An incredible feat that saved countless lives. Hoping y'all can share some pictures from this time! Hurricane Humberto (September, 2007): the fastest intensifying storm on record in the North Atlantic landing as a Category 1 Hurricane when it was simply scattered showers in the gulf the day before. Hurricane Harvey (August, 2017): Dropped over 60.5" of rain in Southeast Texas, the most precipitation an area has ever received from a tropical system. Stay safe and stay up to date! https://lnkd.in/gRXKERVi

Hello, As we all closely watch Hurricane Milton, it is clear that staying informed can make all the difference in protecting our families and our community. Thankfully, we are not likely to get the worst of this storm, but it serves as a strong reminder that timely updates are essential during emergencies. Our Emergency Management page https://lnkd.in/em9Ak-Qh contains our recent storm updates. We provide updates at regular intervals—so far we have issued 7 press releases or updates--and will continue to do so throughout the storm as well as in the aftermath. If you follow us on Facebook, Instagram and/or LinkedIn you will also see these updates. To ensure that you receive critical alerts and notifications about storms, road closures, emergency events, and other important updates, we urge you to sign up today for Alerts and Notifications at Alerts & Notifications | Loxahatchee Groves, FL (loxahatcheegrovesfl.gov—either email, text, call and/or all methods. It will really help us to keep everyone abreast of emergency updates, road closings, and other urgent information, etc. Why Sign Up? By joining the Town's alerts & notification system, you will: • Receive real-time updates during hurricanes, storms, and other emergency situations. • Be informed of road closures, evacuation orders, and important safety measures. • Get notifications on community news, events, and important meetings. • Stay connected and better prepared for any situation that may affect our town. How to Sign Up: It’s quick and easy to join! Just follow these steps: 1. Visit our alerts and notifications page: Alerts & Notifications | Loxahatchee Groves, FL (loxahatcheegrovesfl.gov 2. Enter your contact information to receive alerts by text, email, or voice messages. 3. Customize your preferences so you only receive the updates that matter most to you. Stay Ahead of the Next Storm We ask that you take every precaution and heed the warnings of the State and various other agencies, including those that we issue on our website and through social media. While we hope this storm has no significant effect on our community, we have to be prepared for the worst. Please sign up now to ensure you are always in the loop when it comes to critical information that could affect your safety. We have a team out working today wrapping up storm preparations and we will be out after the storm to clean up and assess any damage. We will be working remotely during the storm. If you wish to report a concern please use our online portal at RequestTracker • Loxahatchee Groves, FL • CivicEngage (loxahatcheegrovesfl.gov) Our Public Works department is answering and checking voicemails on 561-793-2418. If you have any urgent safety concerns before or after Hurricane Milton, please reach out to Public Works. Thank you for helping us keep our community safe and connected! Good luck to you all and stay safe. Francine L. Ramaglia, Town Manager

Neighbors, With another potentially devastating hurricane approaching our state, it's important that we all take time to prepare and stay informed. You and your loved one’s safety and well-being are my top priorities, and I want to ensure that each of us is ready — as we know, cones can shift and impacts can extend far beyond the initial path of a hurricane. https://lnkd.in/eysicBP5 Here are a few tips: Make sure to keep a battery-powered radio or your mobile devices charged. Get your home ready by installing storm shutters or boarding windows, secure outdoor furniture, trim trees, and clear gutters to reduce the risk of home damage. You can watch alerts through NoMi TV on live stream here, or Comcast Channel 77, or AT&T Channel 99. You can also go to North Miami's social media channels for alerts here. Emergency Evaluation Pick-Up Sites: https://lnkd.in/eWrNnKgZ City of North Miami Flood Zone Map: https://lnkd.in/eacefpuE 2024 Hurricane Readiness Guide: https://lnkd.in/eysicBP5 Please remember to build a hurricane kit that is equipped with essential items, such as non-perishable foods, first aid supplies, batteries, flashlights, important documents in a waterproof container, and medications. It’s also important to have lots of water. You will save money by preparing and storing stormwater as opposed to buying water at the stores. You will need one gallon of water per day for at least three days. Do not store water for too long to avoid harmful bacteria. Instead, store water once hurricane warnings are announced. Click here for how to store water safely. https://lnkd.in/eXawGr3Y Register Online for Emergency & Evacuation Assistance Program: https://lnkd.in/eBJDbe-W Here’s a list for important phone numbers: North Miami Emergency Operations Center: 305-893-6511 Miami-Dade County Answer Center: Dial 311 or 305-468-5900 Florida Power & Light to report outages and street lights that are out: 305-442-8770 North Miami Stormwater Division to report flooding: 305-895-9870 North Miami Streets Division to report fallen trees blocking traffic: 305-895-9878 Remember, preparation is key to staying safe during hurricanes. If we all work together, we can ensure that our North Miami community remains strong and resilient, no matter what comes our way.

Hurricane Milton Advisory: Hurricane Milton has intensified into a Category 5 storm, with sustained winds of 180 mph and gusts over 200 mph. The latest pressure reading is 897 mb, making it one of the strongest storms on record in the Atlantic. Milton’s compact 3.8-mile-wide eye adds to its destructive potential. > Areas at Risk and Expected Impacts: • Storm Surge: Dangerous surges of 5-10 feet are expected in Lee and Charlotte counties, and 4-7 feet in Collier County. • Other Counties at Risk: Tampa, Sarasota, Manatee, Pasco, and Hernando counties. Evacuation orders have been issued in several areas. • Expected Weakening: While Milton may weaken to a Category 3 before landfall, it will still cause severe impacts. > Storm Strength: The strongest hurricanes in the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico have pushed close to the upper limit of what’s possible, with the max potential intensity (MPI) around 190-200 mph. To put it in perspective, the strongest Atlantic hurricanes: • Hurricane Allen (1980): 190 mph (strongest in the Atlantic). • Dorian (2019), Wilma (2005), 1935 Labor Day Hurricane: All reached 185 mph. • Milton (2024): 180 mph, making it one of the strongest storms on record. Milton is expected to be highly destructive. > Action Plan: • Evacuations: Everyone in the affected areas should finalize emergency plans and be in a safe place by Tuesday evening, October 8th, 2024. • Shelters: Three emergency shelters have been opened in Lee County. • Tolls: Suspended on all Lee County bridges. • Elevators in High-Rises: Will be shut off to prevent people from being trapped if power goes out. • My related posts — Florida and Hurricanes: https://lnkd.in/gDSQbauP and https://lnkd.in/gTT3Tahb We’re scheduled to fly out of Ft. Myers Tuesday evening, but if Delta flights are canceled, or if the airport is closed, we have contingency plans and will head inland. > Travel and Airport Status: Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) will not operate flights on Wednesday, October 9th, or Thursday, October 10th. Limited flights today and Tuesday; updates on Friday, October 11th, will be provided. > FPL and Power Outages: FPL is closely monitoring the storm. With the ground already saturated, falling trees may cause power outages. FPL crews are prepared with extra support in place. Stay away from downed power lines, debris, and standing water. For updates, check FPL’s Storm Center: https://lnkd.in/gh3HUJeH or visit FPL.com. FPL has activated its emergency plan: http://fpl.bz/os/. > For More Information, please see National Hurricane Center: https://www.nhc.noaa.gov Please evacuate proactively or as ordered, and stay safe! #Category5 #ClimateChange #EmergencyPreparedness #Evacuation #Florida #FortMyers #HurricaneMilton #HurricanePreparedness #NaturalDisaster #Safety #Sarasota #StormSurge #Tampa #Manatee #Pasco #Hernando

MONITORING HURRICANE MILTON - UPDATE 2 October 7, 2024 - 11:45 AM The City of Cooper City continues to monitor Hurricane Milton. The system has quickly intensified as it moves east/northeast across the Gulf of Mexico. The National Hurricane Center predicts Milton will be a major hurricane when it reaches the west coast of Florida this week. As of the 11 AM Advisory on October 7, no watches or warnings are in effect for our area with regard to Milton. At this time, you should have necessary supplies and a plan in place to make sure your loved ones, pets, and property are protected in case we experience any significant impacts. Visit https://lnkd.in/ennW2B_V for helpful tips and a list of supplies. Periods of heavy rainfall will continue to impact South Florida today. The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for all of South Florida through 8 AM Thursday (October 10). A widespread 4 to 8 inches of rainfall will be possible through the week with localized amounts in excess of 10 inches possible. City Operations City Hall, the Community Center, and Pool and Tennis Center remain on regular schedule. Hours for City facilities, meetings, activities, and programs are subject to change should the forecast deem it necessary. District Water Bodies Our Utilities Department works with the South Florida Water Management District and Central Broward Water Control District to ensure that water levels for respective canals and water bodies are kept at proper levels in anticipation of tropical systems. Furthermore, City staff and a contractor work year-round to clear debris from storm drains. If you have questions or have concerns about a storm drain, please call 954-434-5519. Parks and Sports Complexes Our Parks and Recreation Department is regularly assessing weather conditions on our fields and parks. Parks and sports complexes remain open to the public. If you or your child participate in Optimist programs, please follow Optimist updates for potential cancellations. Solid Waste Services Garbage and recycling collection services remain on a regular schedule. Household hazardous waste drop-off at Wheelabrator on October 12 will take place as scheduled. Please remain vigilant and stay tuned to local media outlets for timely forecasts and updates. You can stay up to date with all Cooper City emergency notifications by visiting https://lnkd.in/eECh_3z3 and signing up for Alert Cooper City. We use this system to keep residents updated on any impacts to City services due to a storm.

As Hurricane/Tropical Storm Beryl approaches landfall in Texas, we wanted to reach out and remind everyone in our professional network to prioritize their safety and well-being during this challenging time. At Precision Group, the safety of our employees, customers, and the wider community is of utmost importance. We urge you to stay informed about the latest updates and advisories from local authorities and emergency management agencies. Follow their guidance and take necessary precautions to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your property. Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind during a hurricane or tropical storm: 1. Stay informed: Stay tuned to local news channels, weather updates, and official announcements. Pay attention to evacuation orders, shelter locations, and emergency contact information. 2. Prepare an emergency kit: Ensure you have essential supplies such as non-perishable food, drinking water, medications, flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, and any necessary documents. Don't forget to include items specific to your needs and those of your family members. 3. Secure your property: Take measures to protect your home and belongings. Trim any loose branches, secure outdoor items, and consider boarding up windows if necessary. Follow any recommendations or guidelines from local authorities regarding property protection. 4. Stay connected: Keep your mobile devices charged and have backup power sources available. Make sure you have emergency contact numbers saved and establish a communication plan with your loved ones. 5. Check on others: Reach out to your neighbors, particularly the elderly, disabled, or those who may need assistance, to ensure they are aware of the situation and have the support they need. 6. Follow evacuation orders: If local authorities issue evacuation orders, please comply immediately. Have a plan in place for evacuation, including a designated meeting point and communication method for your family. During these challenging times, let's support and uplift one another. If you have any resources or information that can assist others, please share it within your network. Together, we can navigate through this storm and emerge stronger. Stay safe everyone!

As Hurricane/Tropical Storm Beryl approaches landfall in Texas, we wanted to reach out and remind everyone in our professional network to prioritize their safety and well-being during this challenging time. At Precision Group, the safety of our employees, customers, and the wider community is of utmost importance. We urge you to stay informed about the latest updates and advisories from local authorities and emergency management agencies. Follow their guidance and take necessary precautions to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your property. Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind during a hurricane or tropical storm: 1. Stay informed: Stay tuned to local news channels, weather updates, and official announcements. Pay attention to evacuation orders, shelter locations, and emergency contact information. 2. Prepare an emergency kit: Ensure you have essential supplies such as non-perishable food, drinking water, medications, flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, and any necessary documents. Don't forget to include items specific to your needs and those of your family members. 3. Secure your property: Take measures to protect your home and belongings. Trim any loose branches, secure outdoor items, and consider boarding up windows if necessary. Follow any recommendations or guidelines from local authorities regarding property protection. 4. Stay connected: Keep your mobile devices charged and have backup power sources available. Make sure you have emergency contact numbers saved and establish a communication plan with your loved ones. 5. Check on others: Reach out to your neighbors, particularly the elderly, disabled, or those who may need assistance, to ensure they are aware of the situation and have the support they need. 6. Follow evacuation orders: If local authorities issue evacuation orders, please comply immediately. Have a plan in place for evacuation, including a designated meeting point and communication method for your family. During these challenging times, let's support and uplift one another. If you have any resources or information that can assist others, please share it within your network. Together, we can navigate through this storm and emerge stronger. Stay safe everyone!

Businesses have multiple needs for hurricane preparedness. Planning and preparation are the keys to protecting people and property amid a storm. If you're headquartered in Florida, have satellite offices, employees or assets here, it is important to be prepared for a range of potential risks to your operations including what is predicted to be a very active hurricane season. If you are private company working with our state agencies, it is also vital to remember the critical role our public servants have pre-, during and post-disaster, and lend all the support and patience possible. We're in this together, Florida! Read more from Business Observer and review the resources on FloridaDisaster.org. https://lnkd.in/g-MzjWST https://lnkd.in/gJCbMGSt

The Eyewall Hurricane Francine on initial approach to Louisiana this morning By Matt Lanza on September 11, 2024 Headlines Francine make its initial approach to the Louisiana coast as a high-end category 1 hurricane. Francine will make landfall late this afternoon or evening, likely between the Atchafalaya Delta and Port Fourchon. Significant wind and surge issues are likely at the coast with lesser impacts inland but tropical storm force winds and power outages a good bet between Lafayette and coastal Mississippi. 4 to 8 inches of rain expected in Louisiana and southern Mississippi with flash flooding likely in spots. Francine will slam on the brakes near Memphis but should basically just die off in place with scattered rains the rest of this week across the Southeast. 4 AM CT advisory, warnings, and track. (NOAA NHC) Francine now Hurricane Francine has 90 mph maximum sustained winds this morning, as it did some work overnight to get more organized. It has a few hours left to gain some more intensity before it runs into dry air and wind shear that will likely take its toll on the storm. Francine's forecast and impacts As of the 4 AM CT advisory, Francine was moving northeast at 10 mph. This speed should pick up some through the day. On its current track, a landfall between the Atchafalaya Delta and Port Fourchon seems most likely. That should occur late this afternoon or evening. The rain forecast for Francine shows peak totals west of New Orleans. Flash flooding is likely in spots, and the Weather Prediction Center has a moderate risk (level 3 of 4) for flash flooding risk in much of southeastern Louisiana and portions of southern Mississippi. A moderate risk of flash flooding (level 3/4) is in place for eastern Louisiana and southern Mississippi today. In addition to excessive rainfall, we expect to see isolated tornadoes today, and a slight risk (level 2/5) for severe storms exists in eastern Louisiana, extending east to the Florida Panhandle. In terms of wind, the highest risk will be right at the coast, obviously. As you push inland, we'll see hurricane-force wind risk extend into Morgan City, Houma, and perhaps extreme southwest portions of the New Orleans metro. New Orleans proper should see moderate to high-end tropical storm force winds, as will Baton Rouge, perhaps Lafayette, and up into portions of southern Mississippi. Beyond the coast, Francine will accelerate north into Mississippi, but it will slam on the brakes (as a non-tropical storm) just south or west of Memphis. As it just sort of sits, spins, and dies off, periods of scattered showers and storms will impact parts of the Southeast through the rest of the week off and on. No serious flooding is expected at this time, but it'll be a good idea to keep tabs on things in Georgia, Tennessee, and Alabama perhaps heading into the weekend. No other land concerns in the tropics right now. We'll have another update before evening today.

Preparing for Hurricane Milton: How RPG Can Help You Recover As Hurricane Milton approaches Tampa as a powerful Category 3 storm, residents throughout the region are bracing for potential impacts. At Resource Pavement Group (RPG), we understand the anxiety and uncertainty that comes with preparing for a storm of this magnitude. Our priority is the safety and well-being of our community, and we're here to support you before, during, and after the storm. Should Hurricane Milton leave damage in its wake, RPG is ready to provide comprehensive restoration services to help you get back on your feet. How RPG Can Help After the Storm In the aftermath of a hurricane, the damage to homes, streets, and sidewalks can be extensive. As communities in the Tampa area begin the recovery process, having a trusted partner like RPG can make all the difference. Our services cover all aspects of storm damage repair, ensuring that you have the support you need to rebuild: Home Repairs: From roof damage to compromised windows and siding, we provide expert repairs to secure your home. Whether it’s temporary fixes to keep your home weather-tight or full-scale restorations, our team is ready to help. Driveway and Pavement Restoration: Severe weather can leave driveways cracked, uneven, and unsafe. RPG specializes in repairing and resurfacing driveways and parking areas, ensuring that your property is both functional and visually appealing. Street and Sidewalk Repairs: Damaged streets and sidewalks can be hazardous after a storm, impacting daily life and mobility. RPG offers professional repair services for public and private pathways, making them safe and accessible once again. Essential Safety Tips for Hurricane Milton As you prepare for Hurricane Milton, it’s important to prioritize safety. Here are some key steps to help protect your family and property: Secure Loose Items: High winds can turn outdoor furniture, planters, and other loose items into dangerous projectiles. Bring these items indoors or secure them to reduce potential damage. Stock Up on Essentials: Make sure you have enough water, non-perishable food, batteries, flashlights, and a first aid kit to last for at least a few days. Don’t forget to include necessary medications and pet supplies. Know Your Evacuation Plan: Familiarize yourself with local evacuation routes and have a plan for where you will go if an evacuation order is issued. Keep your vehicle's gas tank full and have an emergency kit in your car. Stay Informed: Monitor local news and weather alerts to stay updated on Hurricane Milton’s path. Being aware of the latest updates can help you make critical decisions for your safety. Keep Important Contacts Handy: Save key contact numbers in your phone, including those for emergency services, your insurance provider, and RPG. If you need immediate assistance with storm damage repairs, call RPG at 888.852.7742.