Youngkin Deploys State Police Boats, Crews and Helicopters to Coastal Virginia Ahead of Hurricane Erin
Virginia's governor said state resources have been positioned in Hampton Roads and on the Eastern Shore as Hurricane Erin is expected to pass closest to the coast early Thursday.
By Rahul Mehta ·
Gov. Glenn Youngkin said Wednesday night that state resources are in place to support first responders in Hampton Roads as the region prepares for possible effects from Hurricane Erin.
According to WTKR Chief Meteorologist David Aldrich, the coastline of North Carolina and Virginia is likely to feel the storm's worst effects from midnight to 8 a.m. Thursday. The core of Erin is expected to remain over open water, but the storm's tropical storm force winds extend a long way from its center and could threaten coastal communities.
Speaking at a briefing on Wednesday evening, Youngkin cautioned that coastal areas will face a flooding risk when the hurricane makes its closest approach to the coast early Thursday morning. He said tidal flooding and tropical storm warnings now stretch along much of the East Coast. "We are seeing it offshore on the Atlantic East Coast, but onshore for Virginia Beach, the Eastern Shore — which includes both Accomack and Northampton County," the governor said.
To get ready, Youngkin said he has asked Virginia State Police to position resources ahead of the storm. That includes sending boats and crews to points along the coast, among them the Eastern Shore and Hampton Roads, and keeping helicopters ready to respond if needed.
"This is a dangerous storm," the governor said. He noted that Hampton Roads has an exceptionally deep pool of first responders, owing to its location and history, but said the state has added to those local forces with its own support.
On the question of travel, Youngkin said that as of about 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, bridges and tunnels were scheduled to remain open. He cautioned that this could change, and said officials will monitor road conditions as Erin passes along the coast.
The governor closed with a plea for caution. "Make sure you have a plan. And do not drive through heavy water. Your car is not a submarine," he said, urging residents to stay off the roads and remain somewhere safe while the storm passes.
Originally published by News Media House · Source: WTKR News 3
