Important Reminders About Hurricane Preparedness

 What do the following mean?

Tropical Depression – A tropical depression is an organized system of thunderstorms which have a closed wind circulation and have wind speeds of less than 40 miles per hour.

Tropical Storm –  A tropical storm is an organized system of very strong thunderstorms, which like a tropical depression, have a closed wind circulation, but that present steady winds ranging from 40-75 miles per hour.

Hurricane Watch – A hurricane watch is issued when there is a threat of a hurricane within a 24-36 hour period.

Hurricane Warning – A hurricane warning means that hurricane conditions are expected to hit the affected area within 24 hours or less and that immediate action is required.

Hurricane – A hurricane is a severe and intense tropical weather system featuring a pronounced rotary circulation and constant wind speeds of greater than 75 miles per hour.  Hurricanes include heavy rains, high winds and storm surges.  The severity is determined by the category of the storm.

Explain what Hurricane Categories mean?

Hurricanes are rated based upon their wind strengths.  Following are the Safir-Simpson hurricane ratings:

Category 1 Hurricane –  A hurricane presenting winds of 75-95 mile per hour winds.  Such hurricanes normally present some issues of coastal flooding and minor wind damage.  There is also a threat of loss of power.

Category 2 Hurricane – A hurricane presenting 96-110 mile per hour winds.  It is common for Category 2 hurricanes to present the threat of damaged roofs, doors and windows; localized flooding; utility outages (ranging from several days to a week in more severely damaged areas); as well as tree damage.

Category 3 Hurricane – A hurricane presenting winds of 111-130 mile per hour winds.  Category 3 hurricanes present the threat of structural damage; utility outages (the possibility of outages for up to 2 weeks); tree damage; coastal and localized flooding; and floating debris.

Category 4 Hurricane – A hurricane presenting winds of 131-155 mile per hour winds.  A hurricane in this category has the ability to threaten roof and structure damage; tree damage; major coastal and inland flooding; utility outages (the possibility of outages for 2-3 weeks); floating debris and beach erosion.

Category 5 Hurricane – A hurricane presenting winds of 156 mile per hour winds or greater.  A hurricane in this category is extremely severe and in addition to the threats already mentioned under other lower category storms, individuals should expect major structural and roof damage to homes in its path; as well as the potential for major flood damage and coastline erosion.  Utility outages should be expected in affected areas and return of power could take a month or more.  A storm of this magnitude would require massive evacuation.

What is a storm surge? 

A storm surge is the result of water which is pushed toward the shoreline by the swirling winds that are a part of the hurricane.  The combination of a storm surge and normal tides can result in storm tides that are capable in some instances of increasing the water level by 15 feet or more.  The result of this rise in water level, compounded by high winds is the possibility of severe flooding in coastal areas.

What should I do to prepare for hurricane season?

Before the threat of a storm ever presents itself, you should ensure that you have adequate homeowners or renters insurance, as well as flood insurance in you live in an area that could be at risk of flooding.

In the case of a hurricane, should I evacuate myself and my family?

Whether you will need to evacuate depends largely on where you live and the severity and path of the storm.  You are most likely to be asked to evacuate if you live in a coastal or low-lying area, an area that floods frequently or if you live in a manufactured home.  It is important to listen to your local news channels for information on areas that may require mandatory evacuation, as well as those that should consider voluntary evacuation.  From Houston, Interstates 10, Interstate 45, Highway 59 and Highway 290 are the primary evacuation routes.  These routes have planned contra-flow lanes (a point outside of Houston where all lines, including inbound lanes will be used for outbound traffic).  The current city evacuation plan calls for those that are under mandatory evacuation to leave the city first, followed by those who choose to evacuate by choice.

Plan in advance where you will evacuate to should the need arise.

Consider the route that you would take should you be asked to evacuate or should you choose to do so.  Make hotel reservations in advance of your departure to ensure that there will be space available in the area that you are considering evacuating to, as hotels and shelters fill up quickly.  Even better, call a family member or friend if you have one that is located in a safe area.  If you and other family members will not be traveling together, plan meeting points, in advance of your departure.  Ensure that all family members have full tanks of gas, fully charged cell phones and phone numbers for all other family members.

Let a neighbor know that you are evacuating and where you are planning on going.

What if I do not drive or have transportation to evacuate?

If you know that you will not have transportation should storm hit and you are in an area that would normally be required to evacuate, call 211 at the beginning of hurricane season and register with the city for transportation assistance, should emergency evacuation be required.

What should I take if I am required to evacuate? 

If you will be evacuating by car, ensure that you have a full tank of gas.  Plan to take: 

v     several changes of clothing and a change of shoes (ensure that you put your name on backpacks/tote bags if you are going into a shelter.)

v     toiletries/personal hygiene items

v     plenty of water (1 gallon per person/per day with enough for at least 3 days)

v     easy to eat food/snacks

v     hand wipes

v     trash bags

v     infant supplies – diapers, baby wipes, formula, etc.

v     paper plates/paper towels/plastic utensils and cups

v     a manual can opener

v     a first aid kit

v     fully charged cell phones

v     at least a month’s supply of prescription drugs

v     extra eyeglasses, as appropriate

v     hearing aid batteries, if applicable

v     several flashlights with extra batteries

v     a battery powered radio with extra batteries

v     extra cash (ATMs may not be working for some time if a storm hits)

v     important keys (home, safe deposit boxes, storage units, extra car keys, etc.)

v     important documents (social security cards, banking information, medical/homeowner/flood insurance information, etc.)

v     basic set of hand tools (screw drivers, wrench, hammer, etc.)

v     toys, books and games to keep children busy

v     immunization records, food, water, leash and carrier for any family pets

v     pillows and blankets

v     the phone numbers of family members, friends, doctors, insurance agent(s), as well as emergency service numbers.

Develop a Hurricane Shelter in Place Plan.

Since many areas in the city will not fall under a mandatory evacuation plan, it is important for your family to develop a Hurricane Shelter in Place Plan that will best address the needs of all family members, including children, the elderly and pets.

Important Considerations When Sheltering in Place: 

v    Whether you stay or you evacuate, ensure that you have the phone numbers of family members and friends, as well as those for emergency services readily available.

v     Ensure that all children in the home know how and when to use 911.

v     Pick an out of state family member or friend as a central point of contact.  Leave it to this person to pass on information to other family members/friends, as your energy will be best served in preparing your home and family for the storm.

v     Ensure that family cars have full tanks of gas.

v    Visit the bank for cash, as banks and ATM machines may not be accessible after a storm.  Carry cash (including smaller bills) and at least one credit card.

v     Ensure that you have a battery powered radio and plenty of extra batteries.

v     Have flash lights available for each family member, along with extra batteries.

v     Have candles and matches available for use, should the electricity go out.  Use candles only during daytime hours when family members are awake.

v     Have a month of prescription medications available as pharmacies may not be accessible following a storm.

v     Have a fully outfitted first aid kit.

v     Have an emergency food supply kit (see list below).

v     Food items and water for family pets.

v     Have basic tools available, including, but not limited to screwdrivers, wrench; hammer, etc.

v  Ensure that you have all important documents close at hand and in a waterproof container or zip-lock bag.  These documents would include social security cards, insurance documents, banking information, medical information and any other important family specific documents.

v     Have hand wipes in case you are not able to use water.

v     Ensure that you and your family members have fully charged cell phones.

v     When the hurricane comes ashore, stay indoors and away from windows.  The center of the storm, known as the “eye” can be deceiving, as it is provides for a period of calm.  Beware that the worst part of the storm actually follows the “eye”, as the winds blow in from the opposite direction, resulting in damage to buildings, trees, shrubs and other objects which escaped damage during the first portion of the storm.

v   Hurricanes can spawn tornadoes during or following the storm, so ensure that you remain alert for any tornado warnings.  Should you be in an area under a warning, take shelter in the center of your home, in either a closet or bathroom, away from windows.

v     If you should be caught out during a storm, never drive into areas of the road which are flooded.  If you are caught in an area where water is rising rapidly, get out of the car and climb to higher ground.

Know what to do to secure your home.

What about utilities? 

If you remain sheltered in place during a hurricane, it is important to remember the following: 

v      If time allows in advance of a storm and you are instructed to do so, shut off water and electricity supplies to your home.

v   CenterPoint Energy recommends that you do not turn off natural gas service at your meter, as it is critical to maintain pressure in the lines to ensure that water does not enter the line in case of flooding.  You can however, turn off the gas at  the connection point of each appliance.

v    Stay away from any fallen or low hanging power lines and if you have a means of communication available, report such problems to CenterPoint Energy.

v    If your home has experienced flooding, it is best to arrange for a licensed electrician to look over your house’s electrical system prior to trying to restore power.

v   If upon your return to your home, you should smell gas, leave the house immediately and call CenterPoint Energy immediately.

Other important things to consider when securing your home: 

v    Bring inside any lawn furniture, trash cans, hanging baskets, yard decorations or other items that might be picked up and tossed around by the wind.

v    Plan to cover your windows.  The most common means of doing so is with plywood.  If you want to be prepared for a storm in advance, pre-cut and label your plywood boards.  This will eliminate the need to stand in long lines trying to purchase plywood at the last moment.  Do not use tape on your windows, as it will not prevent them from breaking.

v     Have a basic tool kit handy.

v     Have several heavy duty tarps available, as they may come in handy following the storm.

What you should have available in an emergency food supply kit? 

v    Enough drinking water for a week.  Take one gallon per person/per day.

v    Enough food for a week, focusing on non perishable items, such as canned food and juices, and packaged snack foods.  Remember to have a manual can opener available, as well as paper plates, plastic eating utensils and cups.

v     Special food needs for infants, children and the elderly, as appropriate.

v     Hand wipes.

Don’t forget your pet(s). 

v     Ensure that your pets are current on their vaccinations and bring their immunization records if you are evacuating.

v     Have enough food and water for your pet(s) for a week.

v     Have an animal carrier.

v     Ensure that your pet has a collar with identification.

v     Have a current picture of your pet(s).

v     Have a leash available for your pet(s).

v     If you are sheltering in place, ensure that your pet(s) are brought indoors well in advance of the storm.  Do your best to reassure them.

v     After a storm, take special care with your pets – do not let them wander, as there will most likely be downed power lines and there is also a possibility of snakes and debris that have been carried in by high waters.

Consider your children and how they will react to the emergency.

Consider that most children are used to a routine – set mealtimes, school, homework, playtime, etc.  Emergencies disrupt these normal routines and can cause anxiety and fear for your child.  Remember that children will look to you and your reactions to guide them.  If you are obviously anxious and upset, your children are likely to be as well.  Also remember, that children rely on their imaginations when dealing with the unknown and as a result, they can experience a very real sense of fear.  They may be afraid of being separated from family members or of being hurt.  They will look to you for reassurance and guidance.  The best think to do is to talk with your children, listen to your children and as appropriate, explain the situation in an age appropriate honest manner.  Once the storm is over, it is important to include your children in recovery efforts – it is extremely important for them to have a role and feel that they are contributing.

What to do after a severe storm or hurricane. 

v    If you have evacuated, watch local news channels for instructions before attempting to return home.  Once you have received notification that it is safe to return, also listen and adhere to the city’s return policy.

v    Once the storm is over, you will want to inspect your home for damage.  Be aware and watch for fallen electric lines and snakes/debris that may have washed in with high water.

v     If your home has received damage from flood waters, do not attempt to restart your electricity without the assistance of a licensed electrician.

v     Do not drink water from faucets until you have confirmed through the local media that it is safe to do so.

v     Have your flashlights/batteries handy while you are waiting for power to be restored.

v     Have a basic tool kit available for minor repairs.

v     Have several heavy duty tarps and rope available in case you need to cover a damaged section of roof.

v     If you have large trees around your home, it could be beneficial to have a chain saw and fuel available for your return, in case you have large limbs or trees down.

v     If you have purchased a portable generator in anticipation of the storm, ensure that you read the instructions thoroughly and that you are familiar with the safety requirements for use.

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