USA: Navy Prepares for Tropical Storm Karen

As Tropical Storm Karen makes its way northward through the Gulf of Mexico, U.S. Navy bases, Sailors, and their families along the Gulf Coast are making preparations for severe weather.

While the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) does not anticipate the storm to reach hurricane strength, Cmdr. Douglas Wahl, Oceanographer for U.S. Fleet Forces Command said that personnel are already keeping a close eye on the storm.

“U.S. Fleet Forces staff oceanographers and Battle Watch Commander are tracking Tropical Storm Karen to ensure there are no impacts to CTF-80 units,” Cmdr. Wahl said.

As of Friday afternoon, several Navy installations along the Gulf Coast increased readiness although no evacuation orders for personnel or families were expected. Currently, no U.S. Navy ships are underway in the expected area. Most ships are expected to remain in port or stay out of the hazardous area. U.S. Navy installations have also ensured the safe and orderly storage of aircraft and equipment in their respective hangars.

“The primary focus of CNIC installations is safety of personnel in the storm’s path and the protection of our nation’s war fighting equipment,” said Capt. Doug Cochrane, chief of staff, Navy Installations Command. “After storm passage, we will work safely and diligently to restore mission capability and continue to monitor the health and safety of our warfighters, families and friends.”

Before an emergency arises, Sailors and their families know where to find additional information. To ensure you are prepared for a storm, go to the Navy’s webpage, www.navy.mil, where you and your family can find an emergency preparedness checklist and other information useful in times of emergency.

“We also encourage our Sailors and their families to have a disaster readiness plan in place so they’re personally ready for any events of this nature,” explained Capt. Jeffrey Griffin, U.S. Fleet Forces Command, Maritime Operations Center Division Chief.

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Press Release, October 06, 2013; Image: US Navy