by Palm Beach, Florida — With Tropical Storm Erin expected to intensify into a major hurricane as it moves west across the Atlantic, local officials are urging residents to take proactive steps to prepare.
During the Town Council meeting on August 12, Mayor Danielle Moore reminded residents that hurricane season is in full swing and encouraged participation in the town’s updated emergency alert system.
Updated Emergency Alerts for Residents
Palm Beach’s emergency alert system, enhanced in December 2023, now allows for location-specific notifications about weather hazards, police activity, traffic delays, road closures, and other urgent matters.
“As a reminder, we are in hurricane season,” Mayor Moore said. “Make sure you have signed up for town alerts. Visit the town’s hurricane preparedness web page to make sure you know exactly what you’re doing.”
Re-Entry Program After a Storm
Moore also stressed the importance of the town’s re-entry program, which operates in five phases after a hurricane or major storm.
Out-of-town residents, property owners, leaseholders, and business representatives must apply for inclusion on the re-entry list to gain post-storm access to the island. Applications require a government-issued ID and remain valid until December 31, 2026.
Residents who may be away during a storm are urged to ensure their staff have proper credentials for re-entry. “We want them to be able to get on as quickly as possible and still continue to keep our residents and the town safe,” Moore said.
Post-Disaster Checklist
The town has also prepared a post-disaster checklist to help residents safely navigate recovery after a hurricane. Recommendations include:
- Avoid standing water, downed power lines, and damaged structures.
- Photograph damage before starting cleanup or repairs.
- Call 911 only for life-threatening emergencies.
- Obtain a building permit before making structural repairs.
- Return home only after the town issues an official “All Clear.”
Read Also: Tropical Storm Erin Expected to Become Category 3 Hurricane — What Florida Needs to Know
Current Status of Tropical Storm Erin
As of the 11 a.m. advisory on August 13 from the National Hurricane Center (NHC), Erin was located about 1,305 miles east of the northern Leeward Islands with maximum sustained winds near 45 mph and higher gusts. The storm was moving west at 17 mph.
Forecasters expect Erin to strengthen into a hurricane by Friday and possibly reach major hurricane status by Saturday, meaning sustained winds over 110 mph.
The projected path places Erin near or just north of the northern Leeward Islands this weekend, with potential impacts to the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. However, most reliable forecast models indicate Erin will likely curve away from the United States.
Importance of Early Preparation
With storms capable of rapid intensification, Palm Beach officials emphasize the importance of having a hurricane plan in place well before landfall is possible. This includes securing property, gathering emergency supplies, and ensuring all family members know evacuation procedures.
Mayor Moore reiterated that timely information can save lives during severe weather. “We encourage everyone to use the tools available to stay informed and to act quickly when alerts are issued,” she said.
While the current forecast suggests Erin will remain offshore from the U.S., Palm Beach officials are treating the storm as a reminder that preparedness is essential during hurricane season.
How prepared do you feel for a potential hurricane? Share your thoughts in the comments at ibwhsmag.com.
