Philly Preps for Hurricane Sandy

With heavy rain and winds in the 60 mph ranged expected to hit Philadelphia from Hurricane Sandy as early as Monday, the city has begun preparing for the worst. Here's what you need to know.

Sunday Prep

According to a release from the city, a flood watch and a high wind watch will be in effect for the area as of Sunday evening. Residents located in "low lying ares with a history of flooding" are advised to "prepare immediately" or find alternative shelter by 2 p.m. on Sunday.

In the Northwest, the city highlighted the following areas as potential flood zones:

• Manayunk along Main Street
• Kelly Drive
• Lincoln Drive along the Wissahickon Creek
• Residents along the Wissahickon and Creshiem creeks should also be mindful of flooding

Where To Go:

The city is planning to open three shelters in the city for residents who cannot arrange other temporary relief, including one in the Northwest. All three shelters are scheduled to open at 4 p.m. Sunday.

• Roxborough High School, 6498 Ridge Avenue
• West Philadelphia High School, 4901 Chestnut Street
• Fels High School, 5500 Langdon Street

Cots, blankets, food and beverages will be provided at the shelters, but the city is advising residents to bring copies of important documents, such as photo IDs, insurance cards and birth certificates, with them to the shelters.

Other items that may be needed at a shelter:

• extra set of car and house keys
• credit and ATM cards
• cash, especially in small bills like ones, fives, and tens
• flashlight and extra batteries
• battery-operated radio and extra batteries
• sturdy, comfortable shoes, lightweight rain gear
• contact and meeting place information for your household
• a small regional map

What About Pets?

If residents wish to evacuate with their pets, they can bring them to the shelters.  

They should also bring appropriate pet supplies including:

• leash
• pet food and treats
• pet Identification
• pet carriers
• veterinarian Records

Stay Informed:

The city is advising residents to stay informed in the following ways:

• Weather information is available from the National Weather Service at www.weather.gov/phi
• Residents can also sign up for emergency text alerts from the City's ReadyNotifyPA Emergency Public Notification at www.phila.gov/ready
• Updates will also be provided at www.twitter.com/PhilaOEM
• Residents should call 311 for updates or to report issues.