TROPICAL STORM ISAAC UPDATE #6 - Sanibel is Under a Tropical Storm Watch

CURRENT FORECAST

A tropical storm watch is now in effect for Sanibel. A tropical storm watch means that sustained winds in excess of 39 mph are likely to be in our area within 48 hours.

The City of Sanibel continues to track Tropical Storm Isaac. Sanibel will likely be affected by tropical storm force wind gusts on Sunday, August 26th in the late afternoon to early evening with heavy rains from the leading storm bands.

Rainy weather associated with a low pressure system located south of Collier County will begin to affect Sanibel this afternoon. If you are planning preventative measures to prepare for tropical Storm Isaac, time is of the essence.

CITY HALL IMPORTANT NEWS & CLOSINGS

Based on the current forecast for Tropical Storm Isaac, the following municipal closings are in effect:

• Sanibel Recreation Center and the Center-4-Life will be CLOSED on SUNDAY, AUGUST 26th, 2012
• ALL City Hall Offices, including the Sanibel Recreation Center and Center-4-Life, WILL BE CLOSED on Monday, August 27th, with the exception of Public Safety and First Responders.

LEE COUNTY SCHOOLS – The Lee County School District has announced that all Schools will be CLOSED on Monday, August 27th, 2012. For more information, please click here to monitor the Lee County School District’s website.

J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge – Will be closed beginning today, August 25th through Tuesday, August 28th. The Refuge will reopen on Wednesday, August 29th.

ILLEGAL SOLICITORS – The Sanibel Police Department has advised they have responded to several complaints regarding illegal door to door solicitors on Sanibel today. The Sanibel Police Department is requesting citizens to contact them immediately at (239) 472-3111, if someone you do not know approaches your door without proper identification and for the purpose of soliciting goods or services.

SAND BAGS are now available at the Sanibel Fire District, Station #1, located at 2351 Palm Ridge Road. Please be prepared to fill and haul your own sandbags.

The City of Sanibel advises all residents to complete preparation as a precaution for your family's safety and protection of property. Now is the time to confirm that your family disaster plan is ready, hurricane shutters are installed and you have a plan for evacuation if the need arises. Check your hurricane supplies and make sure you have adequate prescriptions. Also make sure you have a plan for your pets.

Please continue to monitor Tropical Storm Isaac. The City of Sanibel Website www.mysanibel.com will keep you updated as we receive further information on Tropical Storm Isaac as it becomes available. You can also check for updates on the City’s Hurricane Hotline at 800-933-6093.

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