As hurricane Isabel continues to churn northward toward central Virginia, members of both the University and Charlottesville community continue emergency preparations in anticipation of its landfall.
Although the strength and direction of the hurricane could change significantly in the next two days, both University and local officials urge Charlottesville residents to take precautionary measures such as stocking up on food and water, "buttoning up" their residences and securing outdoor furniture and other items which could cause damage with the expected high winds and heavy rain.
"Be prepared, but calm," Director of Facilities Operations Chris Willis said. "This far inland we're not going to see houses blown around, [but if the storm is significant enough] one can expect power outages and trees tipping over, especially with the wet year we've been having."
Willis advised students, especially those living off Grounds, to stay inside buildings and avoid traveling if at all possible. He was, however, more reassuring in his evaluation of University facilities, including on-Grounds housing.
"Students in dorms [will have fewer] worries about things like food and water, we have that supply for them and we'll be working to sustain that," Willis said.
Storm updates are frequent throughout the day but officials believe that Isabel will come to the west, hitting Charlottesville at 2 a.m. Friday morning, University Spokesperson Carol Wood said.
"What the scientists have told us is that when a storm moves this way it increases the chances of tornados and flooding. Students should have a heightened awareness of their environment," she said.
The impending storm is affecting communities all across the state -- the College of William & Mary cancelled classes as of 9:45 p.m. Tuesday. Students in college housing were asked to vacate their rooms by 5:00 p.m. today.
Isabel's influence may be felt markedly in Charlottesville because it is a key evacuation area; local hotels also are starting to cope with evacuees.
"We're booked up," said James Hawkins, an employee at the Cavalier Inn.
Local grocery stores also reported a shortage of supplies, but most said they were confident in their ability to restock the shelves within the next 24 hours.
"They're pretty good at getting stuff back into the store. We'll sell out during the day, but tonight when the trucks come in at midnight they'll be loaded with batteries and water and even milk," said Ron Sexton, a Giant employee. "We're ready."
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