Thursday, June 6, 2013

As Tropical Storm Andrea approaches, Learn How to Prepare for Flash Flood and Other Risks

As Tropical Storm Andrea approaches, Learn How to Prepare for Flash Flood Risks

WASHINGTON - The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), through its regional offices in Atlanta, Ga. and Philadelphia, Pa. is monitoring the conditions of Tropical Storm Andrea. As Tropical Storm Andrea approaches Florida, FEMA urges citizens to closely monitor the storm and take steps to be as prepared as possible, in advance of severe weather and most importantly, follow the direction of state, tribal and local officials.

 

Turn Around, Don’t Drown

Tropical Storm Andrea is projected to bring significant rainfall and the risk for flash flooding in many areas. If you are caught in a storm, remember to stay away from flood waters.  Driving through a flooded area can be extremely hazardous and almost half of all flash flood deaths happen in vehicles. When in your car, look out for flooding in low lying areas, at bridges, and at highway dips. As little as six inches of water may cause you to lose control of your vehicle.  Remember – turn around, don’t drown.

Here are some things everyone can do to prepare for the 2013 hurricane season:

As the first named storm of the 2013 Atlantic Hurricane Season, Tropical Storm Andrea is a good reminder that if you live in a coastal state, now is the time to be prepared, including determining if you live in an evacuation zone.  As always, residents should listen to the instructions of state, tribal and local officials, and evacuate if told to do so.  Visit www.Ready.gov or http://www.ready.gov/considerations for more information on how you can get your business, family, pets and people with access or functional needs ready for a hurricane or other emergency. 

Know your risk:  Understand how hurricanes can affect where you live, work, go to school and play and how the weather could impact you, your family and your community. When you understand your risk, you are more likely to know how to prepare.  Check the weather forecast regularly and sign up for local alerts from emergency management officials and obtain a NOAA Weather Radio.

Take action:  Pledge to develop an emergency plan and practice how and where you will evacuate if instructed by your emergency management officials. Pledging also provides information on how to strengthen your home and business against hurricanes.  You can also download FEMA’s mobile app so you can access important safety tips on what to do before, during and after a hurricane.  Understand the National Hurricane Center warning and alerts. 

Be an Example:  Once you have pledged and taken action, be an example by talking to your family, friends, colleagues, and neighbors on what you have done to prepare and to inspire others.

For more information on hurricanes, and what you can do to protect yourself and your family, visit www.Ready.gov.

Information can also be found on your smartphone at m.fema.gov

 

FEMA's mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.

 


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