As Tropical Storm Helene gathers strength and heads towards Florida's Gulf Coast, it’s vital for businesses, particularly those managing fuel systems and underground storage tanks (USTs), to prepare for its potential impacts. With hurricane watches and storm surge warnings in place for much of Florida's western coastline, we at AET Group want to ensure that you’re ready before the storm hits, and we’re here to assist you afterward with cleanup and recovery efforts.
Tropical Storm Helene:
The Latest Updates
According to the National Hurricane Center, Tropical Storm Helene officially formed over the Caribbean Sea, with maximum sustained winds of 45 mph. Helene is projected to intensify rapidly over the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, potentially escalating from a tropical storm to a Category 3 major hurricane in just 48 hours.
By Thursday evening, Helene is forecasted to make landfall, likely in the Florida Big Bend region. However, due to the storm’s size, impacts will be felt far inland and across the Southeast. “Everyone along the Florida Panhandle and Big Bend region needs to be prepared for hurricane impacts,” said AccuWeather lead hurricane expert Alex DaSilva, adding that Helen has the potential to become the strongest hurricane to make landfall in the U.S. this season.
Helene poses a significant risk of life-threatening storm surges, with warnings of water levels rising as high as 15 feet in some areas. Flash flooding and hazardous winds are also anticipated, potentially leaving fuel system operators vulnerable to water intrusion and contamination.
How UST Owners and Operators Can Prepare
In anticipation of Helene's arrival, it’s crucial to take proactive measures to protect your fuel systems. Here are a few steps you can take now to minimize storm-related damage:
Check seals and gaskets: Ensure all gas caps are tightly sealed and that gaskets are secure to prevent water from entering the tanks.
Cover dispensers and nozzles: Use visqueen to wrap dispensers and nozzles, adding an extra layer of protection from heavy rain and flying debris.
Clear the area: Remove any loose objects, signage, or garbage receptacles that could become projectiles in high winds.
Vent line protection: Check vent lines to make sure they are capped or protected from water intrusion.
Power down: To avoid accidental shock or damage to electrical systems, turn off electricity to UST systems before the storm hits.
Inventory and water check: Measure product inventory and check water levels in your USTs to account for any potential loss or contamination post-storm.
Post-Storm Recovery: AET is Ready to Assist
Once the storm passes, UST operators will need to quickly assess damage and ensure their systems are safe to operate. A few key steps to follow when restarting your fuel systems include:
Inspect for leaks or contamination: Check tanks for any leaks, water intrusion, or debris.
Power safety: Ensure that all power to UST systems remains off until the entire system has been inspected for electrical damage.
Test equipment: After reactivating power, thoroughly test pumps, spill buckets, detection devices, and other critical components.
Water-tight checks: Ensure that tanks, spill buckets, and sumps are still water-tight before resuming operations.
Getting You Up and Running Faster
At AET , we understand the urgency of restoring normal operations as soon as possible after a storm. That’s why we’re fully equipped to help you manage the aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene, offering services such as:
Water removal from tanks and sumps
Fuel system repairs and pump-outs
Fuel cleaning and contaminant removal
Storm cleanup and environmental services
You don’t have to face this storm alone—AET is here to help. Reach out to us today to ensure your systems are prepared for Helene, and rest assured knowing we’ll be ready to assist with recovery efforts once the storm has passed.
Stay safe, and let AET handle the storm so you can focus on getting back to business.
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