HARRISBURG – A lot of rain and wind but no serious flooding.  That’s the current expectation from Tropical Storm Hanna, which will speed up the eastern seaboard today.

A flood watch has been posted for all of Saturday into Sunday morning.  That would apply mainly to small streams and poor drainage areas.

Larger streams, including the Delaware River, are not expected to cause problems.  Helping the situation are reservoir levels, down because of the very dry weather the past several weeks.  Also helping will be the very dry ground which can absorb much of the rain.

As all eyes along the eastern seaboard remain locked on Tropical Storm Hanna, the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency is reminding Pennsylvanians to prepare ahead of time for disasters.

“Tropical Storm Hanna, along with the other storms currently in the Atlantic, provides citizens across the state with a timely reminder to double-check or create an emergency kit and emergency plan for themselves and their loved ones,” said PEMA Director Robert P. French. “September is National Preparedness Month and the time to prepare for a disaster is before it happens. Our message to citizens is to be informed, be prepared and be involved.”

While the latest forecast suggests Hanna may not be as severe as originally anticipated, the National Weather Service says Tropical Storm Hanna still could bring heavy rain to much of eastern and southeastern Pennsylvania. While major flooding is not anticipated, small creeks and streams could see rising levels as the storm progresses.

Strong winds from a tropical system could cause damage to homes and buildings if items outside are not secured or taken indoors. This includes things like lawn decorations, outdoor furniture, and boats and marine equipment, which can become dangerous projectiles in a storm.

Citizens can put together an emergency kit to be used in any disaster – with supplies to sustain each member of the household, including pets, for three days – using a duffel bag, small suitcase, or large plastic container. The kit should include things like:

• Battery-operated flashlight and radio, with extra batteries
• One gallon of water per person per day
• Essential medication and copies of prescriptions
• First aid kit
• Non-perishable food
• Manual can opener
• Cash, credit cards and important legal documents

For more information about emergency preparedness in Pennsylvania, visit www.PEMA.state.pa.us.