FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 9/22/2023 15:30

Chincoteague’s Emergency Management Team continues monitoring what is now Tropical Storm Ophelia.

Tropical Storm Warnings and Storm Surge Warnings have been issued for our area by the National Hurricane Center.

Winds have become breezy and will increase to 35 – 45 mph from the NE with gusts 55mph + late tonight and Saturday. An isolated tornado is possible Saturday.

2 – 4 inches of rain with isolated 6-inch amounts are expected.

Minor to moderate tidal flooding will occur at the time of high tide 3-5AM Saturday morning and again at 3-5PM Saturday afternoon. Homes and businesses near the waterfront should prepare for tidal flooding as well as those in poor drainage areas could expect rain water run-off.

Power outages are likely. Roads could become impassable due to downed trees and rain/tidal flooding.

VDOT is monitoring the causeway and will attempt to give our team a one-hour notice should a closure be necessary. We will notify of the closure through our Code Red system and web/social media.

You can sign up for Code Red Calling at www.chincoteague-va.gov or you can text “PONYPEN” to 99411 to enroll via cell phone.

Issuing Authority:   E. B. Rush, Director of Emergency Services, Town of Chincoteague, 757-336-3155

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 9/21/2023 13:30

The Town of Chincoteague’s Emergency Management Team has been monitoring the potential of a coastal low developing.

The threat is now imminent and Tropical Storm Warnings for Potential Tropical Cyclone 16 have been issued by the National Hurricane Center and a storm could be named later today.

Regardless of name, this system will be the most significant seen in our area in some time and preparations should begin now.

Winds will increase tomorrow to 35 – 45 mph from the NE and could gust to 60+ mph tomorrow night and Saturday.

2 – 4 inches with isolated 6-inch amounts of rainfall can be expected.

Minor to moderate tidal flooding will occur at the time of high tide 3-5AM Saturday morning and again at 3-5PM Saturday afternoon and there is a Storm Surge Watch in effect.

Please prepare now for tropical storm conditions. Secure all outdoor items that can be blown and/or float, including construction materials. Prepare for power outages, as they are likely. Roads could become impassable. Do not drive through flooded roads as salt water will destroy your vehicle and the wake will damage homes and businesses.

VDOT will be monitoring the causeway and will attempt to give our team a one-hour notice should a closure be necessary.

Please stay tuned to local media, the Town’s Official Facebook page or EOC page, and www.chincoteague-va.gov for updates and further instructions. You can also sign up for Code Red Reverse Calling at www.chincoteague-va.gov

Authority:

B. Rush, Director of Emergency Services

Town of Chincoteague

757-336-6519