10 Sep Hurricane Florence
Life-threatening storm surge and destructive winds are expected. Massive inland rainfall flooding is also expected from Florence lingering into next week.
Tropical storm force winds may arrive as soon as Wednesday night. Florence is also generating dangerous surf and rip currents along the East Coast.
Areas from the Carolinas to Virginia are at greatest risk for major impacts from Florence. Locations farther south, such as Georgia and farther north into the mid-Atlantic should also monitor Florence for any forecast changes.
NOW is the time to make a plan. Due to the forecast of storm surge, which is the greatest threat to life and property, it is important to know your evacuation zone. Go here: http://flash.org/2018EvacuationZones.pdf to see yours.
Review your property insurance coverage and consider purchasing flood insurance. Keep an updated photo and/or video inventory of your personal belongings, furniture, and children. Store a duplicate copy away from your home.
Pick two meeting places. One place outside of your home in case of a sudden emergency or at a friend’s or neighbor’s house in case you cannot return home. Be sure that everyone knows the address and phone number for each of your meet-up locations. It is best to write down the address and phone number and carry it with you in a ziplock to keep it waterproof.
You will need to plan for two possible scenarios: Remaining in your home after a disaster or evacuating to a safer location. Have a three-day supply of food and water on hand, and plan for one gallon of water per person per day along with non perishable foods. Keep a manual can opener and emergency tools including a fire extinguisher, battery-powered radio, flashlight, and plenty of batteries.
Most importantly, stay together with your loved ones. Plan some fun activities, like board games or coloring books if you have children. Keep an easy to carry crate, and supplies if you have pets that will need to be taken care of as well.