From the office of Gov. Kaine: Governor Timothy M. Kaine declared a state of emergency today, directing state agencies to take all reasonable actions necessary to protect the health and safety of Virginians from the potentially damaging effects of Tropical Storm Hanna. “Current forecasts predict Hanna will bring tropical storm force winds to Virginia, causing coastal flooding and the very real possibility of tornadoes and power outages,” Governor Kaine said. “Virginians should listen to their local government representatives and local news media for instructions for the duration of the storm.”

In declaring a state of emergency, the governor authorizes state agencies to identify and preposition resources for quick response anywhere they are needed in Virginia. The Virginia Department of Emergency Management has staffed the Virginia Emergency Operations Center with response team members from several state agencies and other affiliated organizations. In addition, the Virginia State Police, Virginia National Guard and Virginia Department of Transportation have additional personnel on standby to respond to areas in the storm’s path.

More information about what Virginia is doing to prepare for Tropical Storm Hanna is available at www.vaemergency.com. Detailed information about how Virginians can stay safe during an emergency is available at www.ReadyVirginia.gov and www.ListoVirginia.gov.