1. YALE/TULANE ESF-8 PLANNING AND RESPONSE PROGRAM SPECIAL REPORT
HURRICANE SANDY
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Virginia
Virginia Department of Emergency Management FEDERAL GOVERNMENT
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Baltimore Office of Emergency Management STORM SURGE
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Delaware
Delaware Emergency Management Agency WATCHES AND WARNINGS DOD
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Pennsylvania FEMA REGION STATUS
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New York State
New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services TRAVEL
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New York City
New York City Office of Emergency Preparedness ORGANIZATION
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Connecticut
CT Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection
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Rhode Island
Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency
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Hurricane Sandy Preparations
Massachusetts
Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency
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Boston
Boston Office of Emergency Management Agency
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AS OF 11:00 PM EST
28 OCT 12

2. BACKGROUND
• Hurricane Sandy is a late-season tropical cyclone that is affecting
Jamaica, Cuba, The Bahamas, Haiti and Florida, and threatening the
East Coast of the United States.
• The eighteenth tropical cyclone, eighteenth named storm, and tenth
hurricane of the 2012 Atlantic hurricane season, Sandy developed
from an elongated tropical wave in the western Caribbean Sea on
October 22. It quickly strengthened after becoming a tropical
depression and was upgraded to a tropical storm six hours later.
Sandy moved slowly northward toward the Greater Antilles and
gradually strengthened.
• On October 24, Sandy was upgraded to a hurricane, shortly before
making landfall in Jamaica. Upon moving further north, Sandy re-
entered water and made its second landfall in Cuba during the early
morning hours on the next day, October 25, as a Category 2
hurricane.
DEATH TOLL: At least 68 people were killed across the Caribbean,
Bahamas, and the United States.
THE PERFECT STORM
• Two atmospheric processes are counteracting each other at the
moment. Strong upper winds are trying to tear the storm apart, but a
split in the upper flow is causing, essentially, a strong suction from
above which is helping the storm keep going.
• This situation will likely result in some weakening which would mean
Sandy would drop below hurricane strength. But then the polar jet
stream takes over and re-energizes the storm increasing the winds
and growing the size. A sharp dip in the jet stream will pick up the
reinvigorated Sandy and swing it toward the East Coast.
Hurricane Sandy on October 26, 2012 SOURCE: NASA

3. CURRENT SITUATION
• According to the National Weather Service Hurricane Sandy is expected to
bring life-threatening storm surge flooding to the mid-Atlantic coast including
Long Island Sound and New York Harbor and will bring coastal hurricane
winds and heavy Appalachian snows.
• At 800 pm EDT - The center of Hurricane Sandy was located near latitude
34.0 north...Longitude 70.9 west. Sandy is moving toward the northeast near
15 mph and this general motion is expected to continue this evening. A turn to
the north and then the northwest is expected tonight and early Monday. On
the forecast track, the center of Sandy is forecast to be near the mid-Atlantic
coast Monday night.
RISKS & ISSUES
WINDS
• Gale force winds are forecasted to reach Long Island and southern New
England by early Monday (October 29).
• Hurricane-force winds, at least in gusts, are likely over the warning areas
and sections of the Mid-Atlantic region north of the warning areas by late
Monday (October 29).
STORM SURGE: A storm surge is possible along the track, with the largest
wave heights of between 5 to 10 feet (1.5 to 3.0 m) from Long Island Sound to
Raritan Bay.
RAIN: Rainfall totals of 3 to 6 inches (76 to 150 mm) are expected over far
northeastern North Carolina, with isolated maximum totals of 8 inches (200 mm)
possible. Amounts of 4 to 8 inches (100 to 200 mm) are expected over the Mid-
Atlantic states, including the Delmarva peninsula with isolated maximum
amounts of 12 inches (300 mm) possible. Amounts of 1 to 3 inches (25 to 76
mm) with isolated maximum amounts of 5 inches (130 mm) are possible from the
southern tier of New York through New England.
The Weather Channel
National Hurricane Center- Hurricane Sandy

4. PROBABILITIES
National Hurricane Center

5. POTENTIAL STORM SURGE > = 3 FEET
Surge-related flooding depends on the relative timing of the
surge, the tidal cycle, and can vary greatly over short
distances. Given the large wind field associated with Sandy,
elevated water levels could span multiple tide cycles
resulting in repeated and extended periods of coastal and
bayside flooding.
Elevated waters could occur far removed from the center of
Sandy.
These conditions will occur regardless of whether
Sandy is a tropical or post-tropical cyclone.
For information specific to your area please see products
issued by your local National Weather Service Office.
National Hurricane Center- Hurricane Sandy

6. ACTIVE WATCH / WARNINGS
National Weather Service

7. FEMA REGION STATUS
20121028 FEMA Daily Ops Briefing_830.pdf

8. FEMA REGION STATUS
20121028 FEMA Daily Ops Briefing_830.pdf

9. Contamination of HEALTH THREAT FROM HURRICANE
Drinking Water
Water-Borne Disease
TIC/TIM Vector-Borne Disease
Rodent-Borne Disease
Environmental Molds/Allergens
Sanitation
Infections Surveillance
Infectious Diseases - Water Quality
Debris and Waste Food safety - Air Quality
- Spills/Releases
HAZMAT Exposure
- Breeding Sites
Flooding - Harborage Areas
- Health Services
- Shelters
Health - Food Service
Facilities - DNBI
Patient Evacuation
Essential - Animal
Patient Care
Services Drowning Assessment
Waterborne Illnesses - Operational Risk
Infrastructure Utilities Foodborne
Chronic Diseases Coordination
Airports/Sea Ports Infectious Disease - Who
CO Poisoning Increased - What
Hurricane Morbidity & - Where
Road Networks Mortality - When
- How
Services Emergency Services Fill Gaps
911 - Health Services
Government Command and Control Public Health - Vet Services
Homecare - Immunizations
Info - Communication Animal Control - Pharmaceuticals
- Medical Supplies
- Vector Control
Coordination
- Rodent Control
- Sanitation Inspections
Loss of Assets - Outbreak Response
- Transportation
- Evacuation
Displacement Acute Respiratory Infections
Meningitis Build Capacity
Socio-Economic - Education
Loss of Shelter Measles
Dehydration - Training
Loss of Employment Diarrhea
Chronic Disease
Loss of Access
To Food/Water

10. PERSONAL HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS ACTIVITIES
DEVELOP / UPDATE / REVIEW PERSONAL PLAN STOCK DISASTER SUPPLY KIT
 Know your home’s vulnerabilities to Storm Surge, Flooding and Wind  Water (1 gallon per person per day)
 Locate a safe room or safe area in your home or community for each hazard  Food for 3 to 7 days
 Determine escape routes and places to meet  Non-perishable food items
 Have an out-of-state friend or family contact as a single point for all persons in the home  Foods for infants/elderly
 Have a place to go for evacuations  Snack foods
 Be aware of traffic considerations  Non-electric can opener
 If using a hotel/motel, make reservations first  Cooking tools/fuel
 Ensure that destination is pet-friendly ,if necessary  Plates/utensils
 Plan for what to do with pets if you need to evacuate  Blankets/Pillows
 Post emergency phone numbers and ensure children know how and when to call 9-1-1  Medications
 Review insurance coverage – flood damage may not be covered  Ice Chest
 Stock non-perishable emergency supplies and a Disaster Supply Kit  Matches
 Ensure First Aid Kits are stocked  Clothing
 First Aid Kit
PREPARE YOURSELF AND YOUR HOME FOR THE STORM  Toiletries
 Bring in everything not attached to the house (plants, wind chimes, patio furniture, etc.)  Special Items – Babies/Elderly
 Fill clean 2 liter bottles with water and place in freezer  Flashlight/Batteries
 Make and store ice (if possible)  Radio (Battery Operated NOAA)
 Refill medications  Phones – Fully Charged w/Extra Batteries
 Ensure vehicles are fully fueled  Keys
 Charge all cell phone batteries  Toys/Books/Games
 Board windows  Important Documents (In Waterproof
 Place changes of clothing in plastic bags Container)
 Fill trash can or tub with water  Tools and Tape
 Turn refrigerator and freezer to their lowest setting (coldest)  Pet Care Items
 Unplug valuable electronics and turn off gas/electricity to house  Identification and Photos
 Place memorabilia in plastic bags  Ample food and water
 Detach propane tank(s) from gas grill(s)  Medications
 Cover pools and super-chlorinate  Immunization Records
 Tie down any boats that are on trailers or move into a garage  Muzzle, collar, leash
 Get extra cash, ATMs will not work without electricity  Crate
 Gather additional radios, verify battery needs (batteries should be changed every 6 months)
 Gather lanterns and extra oil (do not use in high wind conditions)

11. HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS CHECKLIST
DURING THE STORM AFTER LANDFALL
 Listen to the radio or TV for information.  Continue listening to a NOAA Weather Radio or the local news for the latest updates.
 Secure your home, close storm shutters and secure outdoor  Stay alert for extended rainfall and subsequent flooding even after the storm has ended.
objects or bring them indoors.  If you have become separated from your family, use your family communications plan or contact
 Turn off utilities if instructed to do so. Otherwise, turn the FEMA or the American Red Cross.
refrigerator thermostat to its coldest setting and keep its doors  FEMA has established the National Emergency Family Registry and Locator System (NEFRLS),
closed. which has been developed to help reunite families who are separated during a disaster.
 Turn off propane tanks  The American Red Cross also maintains a database to help you find family. Contact the local
 Avoid using the phone, except for serious emergencies. American Red Cross chapter where you are staying for information.
 Moor your boat if time permits.  If you evacuated, return home only when officials say it is safe.
 Ensure a supply of water for sanitary purpose such as cleaning  If you cannot return home and have immediate housing needs. Text SHELTER + your ZIP code to
and flushing toilets. Fill the bathtub and other larger containers 43362 (4FEMA) to find the nearest shelter in your area (example: shelter 12345).
with water.  For those who have longer-term housing needs, FEMA offers several types of assistance,
 Find out how to keep food safe during and after and emergency. including services and grants to help people repair their homes and find replacement housing.
YOU SHOULD EVACUATE UNDER THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS: Apply for assistance or search for information about housing rental resources
 If you are directed by local authorities to do so. Be sure to follow  Drive only if necessary and avoid flooded roads and washed¬ out bridges. Stay off the streets. If
their instructions. you must go out watch for fallen objects; downed electrical wires; and weakened walls, bridges,
 If you live in a mobile home or temporary structure – such shelter roads, and sidewalks.
are particularly hazardous during hurricane no matter how well  Keep away from loose or dangling power lines. Report them immediately to the power company.
fastened to the ground.  Walk carefully around the outside your home and check for loose power lines, gas leaks and
 If you live in a high-rise building – hurricane winds are stronger at structural damage before entering.
higher elevations.  Stay out of any building if you smell gas, floodwaters remain around the building or your home
 If you live on the coast, on a floodplain, near a river, or on an was damaged by fire and the authorities have not declared it safe.
island waterway.  Inspect your home for damage. Take pictures of damage, both of the building and its contents,
READ MORE ABOUT EVACUATING YOURSELF AND YOUR FAMILY. IF for insurance purposes. If you have any doubts about safety, have your residence inspected by a
YOU ARE UNABLE TO EVACUATE, GO TO YOUR WIND-SAFE ROOM. qualified building inspector or structural engineer before entering.
IF YOU DO NOT HAVE ONE, FOLLOW THESE GUIDELINES:  Use battery-powered flashlights in the dark. Do NOT use candles. Note: The flashlight should be
 Stay indoors during the hurricane and away from windows and turned on outside before entering - the battery may produce a spark that could ignite leaking
glass doors. gas, if present.
 Close all interior doors – secure and brace external doors.  Watch your pets closely and keep them under your direct control. Watch out for wild animals,
 Keep curtains and blinds closed. Do not be fooled if there is a lull; especially poisonous snakes. Use a stick to poke through debris.
it could be the eye of the storm – winds will pick up again.  Avoid drinking or preparing food with tap water until you are sure it’s not contaminated.
 Take refuge in a small interior room, closet or hallway on the  Check refrigerated food for spoilage. If in doubt, throw it out.
lowest level.  Wear protective clothing and be cautious when cleaning up to avoid injury.
 Lie on the floor under a table or another sturdy object.  Use the telephone only for emergency calls.
 Avoid elevators.  NEVER use a generator inside homes, garages, crawlspaces, sheds, or similar areas, even when
using fans or opening doors and windows for ventilation. Deadly levels of carbon monoxide can
Ready.Gov quickly build up in these areas and can linger for hours, even after the generator has shut off.

12. PREVENT ILLNESS AFTER A DISASTER
PROTECT YOURSELF FROM ANIMAL - AND INSECT-RELATED KEEP FOOD AND WATER SAFE
HAZARDS wild or stray animals and biting or stinging insects.
 Avoid  Food may not be safe to eat during and after an emergency. Water may not be safe for cooking.
 Call local authorities to handle animals.  Water may not be safe to drink, clean with, or bathe in after an emergency, such as a hurricane or
flood. During and after a disaster, water can become contaminated with microorganisms (for
 Get rid of dead animals, according to local guidelines, as soon as you can. example, bacteria), sewage, agricultural or industrial waste, chemicals, and other substances that
can cause illness or death.
 For more information, contact your local animal shelter or services, a veterinarian, or the
humane society for advice on dealing with pets or stray or wild animals after an emergency.  Listen to and follow public announcements. Local authorities will tell you if water is safe to drink or
to use for cooking or bathing. Follow local instructions to use bottled water or to boil or disinfect
 For information on specific animal and insect issues, see protect yourself from animal- and water for cooking, cleaning, or bathing.
insect-related hazards after a natural disaster.
 For more information, see keep food and water safe after a natural disaster or power outage.
PREVENT CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING PROTECT MENTAL HEALTH
 The days and weeks after an emergency are going to be rough. Some sleeplessness, anxiety, anger,
 Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas that can cause sudden illness and death if you
hyperactivity, mild depression, or lethargy are normal and may go away with time. If you feel any of
breathe it. Never use generators, pressure washers, grills, camp stoves, or other gasoline, propane,
these symptoms acutely, seek counseling. Your state, local, tribal health departments will help you
natural gas, or charcoal-burning devices inside your home, basement, garage, or camper—or even
find local resources, including hospitals or health care providers that you may need.
outside near an open window, door, or vent.
 Seek medical care if you are injured, feel sick, or have acute stress and anxiety.
 Don't heat your house with a gas oven.
 Keep as many elements of your normal routine incorporated into the disaster plans as possible,
 If you are too hot or too cold, or you need to prepare food, don't put yourself and your family at risk
including activities to calm children's fears.
for co poisoning—look to friends, family, or a community shelter for help.
 Be aware that you may have fewer resources to attend to your day-to-day conflicts, so it is best to
 If your co detector sounds, leave your home immediately and call 911.
resolve what you can ahead of time.
 Seek prompt medical attention if you suspect co poisoning and are feeling dizzy, light-headed, or
 Turn to family, friends, and important social or religious contacts to setup support networks to deal
nauseated.
with the potential stressors.
 For further guidance on avoiding UP SAFELY AFTER FLOODS
CLEAN co poisoning, see protect yourself from carbon monoxide  Let your child know that it is okay to feel upset when something bad or scary happens. Encourage
your child to express feelings and thoughts, without making judgments.
 To prevent illness, disinfect and dry buildings and items in them. This will prevent growth of some bacteria, viruses,
mold, and mildew that can cause illness.
 For additional resources, see disaster mental health resources.
 For more information, see flood water after a disaster or emergency.
WASH YOUR HANDS
 Always wash your hands with soap and boiled or disinfected water before preparing or eating food, after toilet use, after participating in cleanup activities, and
after handling articles contaminated by floodwater or sewage. Use warm water when available. Wash children's hands frequently (always before meals).
 Disinfect water for washing by mixing 1/8 teaspoon of household bleach per 1 gallon of water). Let it stand for 30 minutes. If the water is cloudy, use a solution of
1/4 teaspoon of household bleach per 1 gallon of water.
 If water isn't available, use alcohol-based products made for washing hands.
 For more tips on washing your hands, see hand hygiene after a disaster.

13. PREVENT ILLNESS AFTER A DISASTER
PREVENT ILLNESS FROM SEWAGE PREVENT OR TREAT WOUNDS
 Immediately clean out all open wounds and cuts with soap and clean water. Keep wounds covered
with clean, dry bandages that are large enough to cover the wound and contain any pus or
 If there is flooding along with a hurricane, the waters may contain fecal material from drainage.
overflowing sewage systems and agricultural and industrial waste. Although skin
contact with floodwater does not, by itself, pose a serious health risk, there is risk of  Change bandages as needed and when drainage can be seen through the bandage. Contact a
disease from eating or drinking anything contaminated with floodwater. doctor to find out whether more treatment is needed (such as a tetanus shot).
 If there has been a backflow of sewage into your house, wear rubber boots and  If a wound gets red, swells, or drains, seek immediate medical attention.
waterproof gloves during cleanup. Remove and discard contaminated household
materials that cannot be disinfected, such as wall coverings, cloth, rugs, and drywall.
AVOID WILD OR STRAY ANIMALS
 If you are bitten by any animal, seek immediate medical attention. If you are bitten by a snake, try
 If you have any open cuts or sores that will be exposed to floodwater, keep them as to identify it, so that if it is poisonous, you can be given the correct anti-venom.
clean as possible by washing them with soap and applying an antibiotic ointment to
 Do not cut the wound or attempt to suck the venom out. (See also the CDC rabies website, rat-bite
discourage infection. fever: frequently asked questions, and medical problems and treatment considerations for the red
imported fire ant [PDF, 658 KB/8 pages].)
 Wash clothes contaminated with flood or sewage water in hot water and detergent and
separately from uncontaminated clothes and linens. CONTACT WITH HAZARDOUS MATERIAL
 If your skin or eyes may have come in contact with hazardous materials, such as acid from a car
 Do not allow children to play in floodwater areas and do not allow children to play with battery, wash thoroughly with decontaminated water and seek medical attention as needed.
floodwater-contaminated toys that have not been disinfected. Disinfect toys by using a
solution of one cup of bleach in five gallons of water. Some toys, such as stuffed
TETANUS IMMUNIZATION
animals and baby toys, cannot be disinfected; they should be discarded.
 If you have wounds, you should be evaluated for a tetanus immunization, just as you would at any
other time of injury.
PREVENT TEMPERATURE-RELATED ILLNESS
 If you receive a puncture wound or a wound contaminated with feces, soil, or saliva, have a doctor
When standing or working in water that is cooler than 75 f (24°c): or health department determine whether a tetanus booster is necessary based on individual
 Wear rubber boots. records.
For further guidance e, see emergency wound care after a natural disaster.
 Ensure that clothing and boots have adequate insulation.
INFECTIOUS DISEASE
 Take frequent breaks out of the water.  Short bouts of diarrhea and upset stomach and colds or other breathing diseases sometimes occur in
developed countries, such as the united states, after a natural disaster, particularly among large
groups of people in a shelter. Basic hygiene measures like frequent hand washing or use of an alcohol
 Change into dry clothing when possible. hand gel, especially after using the restroom or changing diapers and before eating, can help prevent
these diseases.
 Diseases like cholera or typhoid are rare in developed countries and do not typically occur after a
natural disaster.
 For information on infectious disease, see infectious disease after a disaster.
IMMUNIZATIONS
For information on immunizations for evacuees, relief workers, emergency responders and travelers, see
immunization after a natural disaster.