A number of Virginia Tech experts are available to provide insight on weather event.

Even if the storm remains at sea, it is expected to cause significant coastal damage. Many models have it affecting the coast at high tide, which will be especially problematic.

Jennifer L. Irish is an authority on the physical impacts of coastal hazards including storm surge, tsunami inundation, and erosion. She is an associate professor of civil and environmental engineering and can be reached at [email protected]

Also, Robert Weiss, an associate professor of geosciences, has a unique perspective on this coastal threat. He studies the response of the physical environment to tsunami generated by earthquakes, slides and oceanic meteorite impacts. Contact him at [email protected]

Urban flooding is a serious threat and stormwater management is crucial during a severe weather event. Contact Randel L. Dymond, an associate professor of Environmental and Water Resources Engineering at [email protected].

Coastal Ecologist Jim Fraser is available to provide a scientifically informed response on how to manage damage. A wildlife professor at Virginia Tech, he has studied the ecology of the barrier islands for 25 years. His e-mail goes directly to his cell phone so reach him at [email protected] and he will get back to you.

Virginia Cooperative Extension reminds people to be prepared for emergencies. For media interviews with an expert on how families can best prepare, contact Mike Martin, Virginia Cooperative Extension emergency response specialist, at 540-231-0816 (office), 540-315-0816 (cell) or email [email protected].