Hello to all…
*** EASTERN MASSACHUSETTS ARES IS STANDING DOWN ITS STAND-BY FOR ALL AREAS EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY ***
Eastern Massachusetts ARES is standing down from its standby status that began on February 8, 2016 at 10:00AM. The storm did not bring as big of an impact to the region as was predicted. The strongest winds occurred early in the storm before the snow took hold. The snow was not heavy and wet as it was on Friday, and slightly less snow fell than predicted (6″-11″ vs 10″-18″). However, blizzard conditions were met in southeast Massachusetts and travel and road conditions were not good. There were multiple motor vehicle accidents across the region as well as coastal flooding and more wires and trees down.
I would like to thank everyone who offered their time and gave their availability for deployment either locally or in an ARESMAT scenario. Even though no deployments were required I hope everyone took this opportunity to check their go-kits, check your supplies, and know that the call could come at anytime.
NWS storm products:
Blizzard Classification:
https://nwschat.weather.gov/p.php?pid=201602082238-KBOX-NOUS41-PNSBOX
Local Storm Report (LSR):
http://kamala.cod.edu/offs/KBOX/1602091506.nwus51.html
Public iNformation Statement (PNS):
http://kamala.cod.edu/offs/KBOX/1602091422.nous41.html
What is ARES Stand-By mode?
ARES stand-by mode is to alert Amateurs within ARES that a mobilization is possible on a wide-scale and that some localized mobilizations are or could be taking place in isolated areas. It means to take a look at your Go-Kit and have batteries and equipment ready to go and charged up and take care of any requirements at home in case a mobilization is required and you can participate. Do NOT self-deploy. Wait for guidance from leadership for any deployment. It is an honor to be ready even if you don’t deploy for the event. Hopefully, this is just another exercise of our preparedness and capabilities. If not, the ARES leadership looks forward to working with you if any wide scale mobilization is required after the impact of this major storm to the region is fully understood.
Thanks for your continued support of Eastern Massachusetts ARES!
Respectfully Submitted,
Marek Kozubal (KB1NCG)
ARES Eastern MA Section Emergency Coordinator