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Hurricane Dennis

County casts fearful eye toward Dennis

Officials hope the hurricane will pass, but they are preparing to order evacuations and open shelters if necessary.

By MARY SPICUZZA
Published July 8, 2005

BROOKSVILLE - With Hurricane Dennis headed for Cuba and the Gulf of Mexico on Thursday, Hernando County officials were preparing for the worst, while hoping for the best.

"We're still within the cone of uncertainty," said Mark Tobert, county preparedness and response coordinator.

Tobert said the county would not make any decisions about protective actions, such as ordering evacuations or opening shelters, until late this afternoon.

Throughout the day, officials will monitor the forecast track and gather data. They plan to participate in a conference call with state officials at 5:15 p.m. and then, if necessary, coordinate with other officials in the Tampa Bay area.

"We're going to plan so we're synchronized," Tobert said.

Hernando residents were urged to begin making storm preparations. Tobert encouraged people to stock up on disaster supplies, such as flashlights, bottled water and a two-week supply of nonperishable foods and prescription medicines.

Other hurricane preparedness tips include: making a disaster plan, planning an evacuation route, protecting your home before the storm, purchasing a battery-powered weather alert radio and reviewing insurance policies.

Anyone with questions may contact Hernando County Emergency Management at 754-4083. If Hernando is likely to be affected by the hurricane, recorded updates will be provided by phone at 754-4111. Updated information may also be found at the county Web site: http://www.co.hernando.fl.us/em/

Mary Spicuzza can be reached at mspicuzza@sptimes.com or 352 848-1432.

[Last modified July 8, 2005, 01:10:50]