Montgomery Township is taking all necessary steps to be ready for this storm. While Montgomery's emergency management team hopes that the storm track and intensity will be less severe, we are erring on the side of caution. We encourage all Montgomery residents to prepare now.

Depending on where and how it hits land, Hurricane Joaquin has the potential to cause significant disruptions. Utilities such as electricity, phone, water, and internet service may be disrupted. Outages could last for more than 24 hours and heat could be out in homes. Grocery stores and pharmacies could close or residents might not be able to reach them. Because of Montgomery's river basin location, road closures may occur. Travel may be unsafe or impossible during and soon after the 

storm, when flood waters may still be rising.

Please anticipate these possibilities and prepare to be able to "shelter in place" - remain at home until vehicular traffic and utility services are restored.

Residents who feel they are unable to shelter in place should develop a plan to leave the region before the storm arrives.

Please consider the following household preparations in the next few days:

TO MINIMIZE DAMAGE

* Remove or secure all objects that may become  

air borne from yards and porches.

* Check sump pumps and  

back-up batteries.

* Clear valuable items off floors of basements.

* Make sure gutters and leaders and sump pump drains are clear.

* If there is a roadway storm drain near your home, make sure it is clear of debris.

* Fill up gas tanks and garage your vehicles during the storm, avoid parking under trees.

* If you have a generator you plan to use should power fails, test it now. Read through these Generator Safety Tips or