City continues to monitor progress of Hurricane Irene; Residents advised to take necessary precautions, visit city website for information throughout the weekend.
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Based on current weather projections, which predict that Hurricane Irene will affect the Somerville/Boston area on Sunday with tropical storm-force winds and hurricane-force wind gusts, the City of Somerville is reminding residents of precautions to take in advance of a possible severe weather event. While Somerville is not currently projected to receive significant rain fall, the storm’s track could shift at any moment, and residents are encouraged to prepare for any scenario.

Stocking up on nonperishable foods, water, and prescription medication for approximately 3-5 days is advisable, as is moving basement-level objects to higher ground if your neighborhood is prone to flooding. Batteries and flashlights should be stocked and placed in various locations throughout your home. Residents should shelter at home unless otherwise noted. In case of power outages or other storm-related emergencies, the City will notify residents of emergency shelter locations and assist with evacuations if necessary.

Public safety and DPW crews will be working round-the-clock as necessary to ensure the safety of the entire Somerville community, and residents are also advised to remember the proper uses of phone numbers in emergency situations:

• Call 911 for emergencies.
• Call 311 with non-emergency questions, but please do not call unless there is an urgent question. Phone lines should remain open as much as possible.
• Limit cell phone use as much as possible. This will allow public safety personnel to better access phone lines and receive incoming calls in emergencies.

Residents are also urged to check on elderly or disabled family members, friends, or neighbors who may require additional assistance during the storm this weekend. Important information will be maintained on the City’s website, http://www.somervillema.gov/, throughout the weekend. Additional announcements will be made via Connect CTY and public safety officials.

If you have questions, please refer to the City website for updates.