Pa. Officials Provide Update On Hurricane Joaquin

By Ian Bush

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Preparations in Pennsylvania for more rain and for the potential impact from Hurricane Joaquin do not include a state of emergency -- at least, not yet.

Governor Tom Wolf says if it becomes necessary to take that step:

"I am prepared and everything is in place," said Gov. Wolf.

Including the money, despite the months-long budget stalemate.

"There is no budget issue here. We will do what we have to do and we have the funds to do it," said Gov. Wolf.

Should Joaquin put Pennsylvania in its crosshairs, Wolf advises taking steps as you would a snowstorm.

"Have three days worth of food. If you need medications, have three days worth of medications so that you're set."

It's a good idea to also have a car charger around for your cell phone.

Credit the relative lack of rain over the past month for keeping rivers and stream levels low.

"So we have some capacity, fortunately, as a result of that, and that will be helpful," said Gov. Wolf.

But with so much rain in such a short time and an uncertain impact from Joaquin, Gov. Wolf warns:

"If it becomes necessary to evacuate, either because you think you're not safe where you are or because you've been asked to evacuate by the county emergency management agencies, do so as quickly as you can."

PennDOT says road crews are ready to work around the clock to help clear flooding.

"They're out right now to areas that are prone to flooding. Our crews are looking for tree limbs, making sure that all inlets are cleared," said secretary Leslie Richards.

State police, the National Guard, and the health department are coordinating their response plans with the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency.