Hurricane Irma Preparations

TO:  Vice Presidents, Vice Provosts, Deans, Directors, Department Heads, and Managers
FROM:  Kyle Cavanaugh, Vice President of Administration, Emergency Coordinator
RE:  Hurricane Irma Preparations

As we continue to track and monitor Hurricane Irma off the Florida coast, Duke’s Severe Weather Operations Team is making preparations for potential impact on North Carolina early next week.

According to the latest forecast from the National Weather Service, confidence is increasing that the path of Irma will affect central North Carolina beginning Monday, but it is too early to estimate the significance of the impact. If the storm stays on the projected path, the greatest impact is expected Monday night and Tuesday with the possibility of heavy flooding rains, strong wind gusts producing sporadic power outages, and tornadoes among the primary threats.

This weekend’s activities and events should not be impacted by the storm. But the Severe Weather Operations Team, including representatives from Duke Police, Facilities, Student Affairs, Engineering & Operations, and Communications is actively making preparations for early next week. Facilities crews are inspecting storm drains and assessing potential flooding areas. Construction sites are being secured, and fuel has been obtained for generators and transportation needs.

The Duke Marine Lab in Beaufort, N.C., has also begun hurricane preparations to secure the island. Decisions regarding evacuation of students from the island will be made on Saturday once forecasts become more specific regarding the projections for the North Carolina coast.

Given the possibility of severe weather early next week, please ensure staff members are aware of the service category for their position and how they will be notified if the severe weather and emergency conditions policy is activated. Thank you.