Are You "Hurricane Ready"?

4/20/2020 (Permalink)

As 2020 Hurricane Season approaches, it is important to be prepared beforehand. Living on the Mississippi Gulf Coast can be scary during hurricane season, as we experience several storms during these months. Hurricanes are massive storm systems that form over ocean water and often move toward land. Hurricanes include high winds, heavy rainfall, storm surge, coastal and inland flooding, rip currents and tornadoes all of which can destroy homes, buildings, and roads. It is important to stay ready so you do not find yourself scrambling to brace for the impact. There is always the potential looming that our area could be hit by a hurricane. Here are a few things to know ahead of a hurricane if one was to head our direction. 

Know the Difference

•Flood/Flash Flood Watch—Flooding or flash flooding is possible in your area.

•Flood/Flash Flood Warning—Flooding or flash flooding is already occurring or will occur soon in your area. 

How to Prepare

•Listen to area radio and television stations and a NOAA Weather Radio for possible flood warnings and reports of flooding in progress or other critical information from the National Weather Service (NWS).

•Be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice.

•When a flood or flash flood warning is issued for your area, head for higher ground and stay there.

•Because standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flooding, it’s important to have protection from the floods associated with hurricanes, tropical storms, heavy rains and other conditions that impact the U.S. For more information on flood insurance, please visit the National Flood Insurance Program Web site at www.FloodSmart.gov.