Tropical Storm Alex 2010-Gains Strength, Threatens Coastal Region. Are You Ready?
It is now official – the 2010 Hurricane season is upon us. Hurricane watches and warnings have been posted for a stretch of the Gulf Coast region in southern Texas as Hurricane Alex is gaining strength and appears to be on track to make landfall in the next few days. As of June 30th, Alex was swirling through the Gulf of Mexico with wind speeds of 75 mph on a path that would take it inland. Hurricane Alex could contain winds as high as 120 miles per hour.
The hurricane season runs from June 1st to the end of November and each year an average of eleven tropical storms develop over the Atlantic, Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. If you live in the Gulf Coast region or along the eastern U.S. coastline, you should keep a watchful eye on developing storms and their projected paths. You also should be well-prepared for one of the tropical storms to develop into a full-blown hurricane. Below are a few things you can do to ensure that you are not caught off-guard.
Pay attention to the national and local weather/news. Be sure to keep your vehicle’s gas tank full. By topping off your tank every couple of days you will not have to be concerned with waiting for hours in long lines at local gas stations if and when an evacuation is announced. Plus, gas pumps do not work if the electricity is cut off, so top up!
Stock up on groceries now. Local supplies deplete rapidly, leaving many store shelves empty within a couple days before a storm hits. Buy plenty of water and non-perishables such as ready-to-eat-canned meats, canned juice, peanut butter, granola bars, trail mix, canned fruits , veggies and instant coffee.
Store valuables and important papers in waterproof containers. Be sure your home is secured. Keep trees and shrubs trimmed. Have plywood on hand so that you can board up windows and glass doors. If a storm is nearing, clear your yard of lawn furniture, bikes, trash cans, etc. Be sure you have plenty of cash on hand because local ATMs will not be in operation and many banks may be closed.
Check your disaster supply kit. Be sure it includes flashlights for everyone in the family, a portable radio w/ batteries, plenty of drinking water, non-perishable food items, prescription medications, baby supplies, first aid kit, water purifier, plastic tarp and a distress flag or whistle.
If you are forced to evacuate, take the above supplies with you and also be sure to take your personal hygiene items, extra clothing, pillows and blankets. Take the time to shut off the electricity, gas and water and lock all windows and doors. Contact your nearest relatives to let them know where you are going.
