Prepare for Tropical Storm Barry Remnants
Remnants of Tropical Storm Barry continue to bring heavy rain to the Mid-South. The National Weather Service in Memphis predicts that locally heavy rainfall associated with Tropical Storm Barry will create a risk of flash flooding, particularly along and west of the Mississippi River after midnight. The potential for persistent moderate rain and flooding will continue through Tuesday, especially along the Mississippi River. Short-lived tornadoes will remain possible, associated with thunderstorms embedded in tropical rain bands. It is never too early to prepare! Stay weather-aware in the coming days and review the following flood safety tips with your family.
Know the Forecast: If possible, have a NOAA all-hazards battery-powered radio and download weather apps to mobile devices.
Know the terms:
- Flood Watch: Be aware! Conditions are favorable for flooding to occur.
- Flood Warning: Take action! Flooding is occurring or will occur soon. Seek higher ground!
Home Preparedness: Create a digital home inventory.
Have a Plan: Practice how to shelter-in-place or evacuate at a moment’s notice. Know where higher ground is located in your neighborhood and in areas you frequent. Know two (2) alternative routes to and from home, work and school.
Family Communications Plan: Program “in case of emergency” (ICE) phone numbers in cell phones. Have emergency phone number wallet cards for all family members. Designate an out-of-town relative everyone will call if they get separated.
Disaster Kit: Have a portable kit with enough supplies to sustain you and your pets for seven days to include important documents, medication, food, water, flashlight, and tools.
Flood Safety: Do not drive through flood waters. TURN AROUND, DON’T DROWN! As little as 6 inches of moving water can knock you down and 12 inches of moving water can float a vehicle. If flood waters surround your vehicle and the water is not moving, abandon the vehicle and seek higher ground. Do not leave the vehicle and enter moving water. Flood waters can be toxic - be sure to wash off any flood water immediately.
National Flood Insurance Program: Visit www.floodsmart.gov to find out your flood risks and information on purchasing flood insurance.
Resources: www.fema.gov and www.nhc.noaa.gov
