2018 Hurricane Preparedness Guide by Progress Times

HURRICANE

2018 SEASON

PREPAREDNESS GUIDE

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NOAA Forecasters predict a near- or abovenormal 2018 Atlantic hurricane season

NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center is forecasting a 75-percent chance that the 2018 Atlantic hurricane season will be near- or above-normal. Forecasters predict a 35 percent chance of an above-normal season, a 40 percent chance of a near-normal season, and a 25 percent chance of a below-normal season for the upcoming hurricane season, which extends from June 1 to November 30. “With the advances made in hardware and computing over the course of the last year, the ability of NOAA scientists to both predict the path of storms and warn Americans who may find themselves in harm’s way is unprecedented,” said Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross. “The devastating hurricane season of 2017 demonstrated the necessity for prompt and accurate hurricane forecasts.” NOAA’s forecasters predict a 70-percent likelihood of 10 to 16 named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher), of which 5 to 9 could become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including 1 to 4 major hurricanes (category 3, 4 or 5; with winds of 111 mph or higher). An average hurricane season produces 12 named storms, of which 6 become hurricanes, including 3 major hurricanes. The possibility of a weak El Nino developing, along with near-average sea surface temperatures across the tropical Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea, are two of the factors driving this outlook. These factors are set upon a backdrop of atmospheric and oceanic conditions that are conducive to hurricane development and have been producing stronger Atlantic hurricane seasons since 1995. “NOAA’s observational and modeling enhancements for the 2018 season put us on the path to deliver the world’s best regional and global weather models,” said Neil Jacobs, Ph.D., assistant secretary of

commerce for environmental observation and prediction. “These upgrades are key to improving hurricane track and intensity forecasts, allowing NOAA to deliver the best science and service to the nation.” NOAA’s suite of sophisticated technologies – from next-generation models and satellite data to new and improved forecast and graphical products – enable decision makers and the general public to take action before, during, and after hurricanes, helping to build a more “Weather-Ready Nation.” New tools available this year to assist in hurricane forecasts and communications include: • NOAA’s fleet of earth-observing satellites is more robust than ever with the successful launch of the GOES-17 satellite in March. This satellite, along with the GOES-16 satellite – now GOES-East – contribute to a comprehensive picture of weather throughout the Western Hemisphere, allowing forecasters to observe storms as they develop. • The new polar-orbiting satellite, NOAA-20, will join the NOAA/NASA Suomi NPP satellite and use a suite of sophisticated instruments to gather high-resolution data from around the globe to feed NOAA’s weather models, driving the 3-7 day weather forecast that is critical to preparedness and effective evacuations. • The National Weather Service will run a version of the Global Forecast System (called FV3 GFS) with a new dynamic core alongside the current GFS model – often referred to as the American model – during the 2018 season. This will mark the first dynamic core upgrade to NOAA’s flagship weather model in more than 35 years, representing the first step in re-engineering NOAA’s models to provide the best possible science-based predictions for the nation. • NOAA’s hurricane-specific mod-

NOAA’s GOES-16 satellite (now GOES-East) captured this infrared/visible image of Hurricane Harvey on August 25, 2017. (NOAA)

el – the Hurricane Weather Research and Forecast system – will be upgraded to offer greater resolution than ever before, increasing model resolution from 1.2 miles to 0.9 miles (2 km to 1.5 km) near the center of a storm. Additionally, the Hurricanes in a Multi-scale Ocean coupled Non-hydrostatic model was first implemented in 2017 and will undergo upgrades for the 2018 season to include greater resolution, new physics and coupling with ocean models. • NOAA’s National Hurricane Center will make the Arrival Time of Tropical-Storm-Force Winds graphics operational for this hurricane season. One graphic displays the “earliest reasonable” arrival time of tropical-storm-force winds, at which point further preparedness activities could be hindered. A second graphic displays the “most-likely” arrival time of tropical-storm-force winds. “Preparing ahead of a disaster is the responsibility of all levels of government, the private sector and the public,” said acting FEMA Deputy Administrator Daniel Kaniewski. “It only takes one storm

to devastate a community so now is the time to prepare. Do you have adequate insurance, including flood insurance? Does your family have a communication and evacuation plan? Stay tuned to your local news and download the FEMA app to get alerts, and make sure you heed any warnings issued by local officials.” In addition to the Atlantic hurricane season outlook, NOAA also issued seasonal hurricane outlooks for the eastern and central Pacific basins. An 80 percent chance of a near- or above-normal season is predicted for both the eastern and central Pacific regions. The eastern Pacific outlook calls for a 70-percent probability of 14 to 20 named storms, of which 7 to 12 are expected to become hurricanes, including 3 to 7 major hurricanes. The central Pacific outlook calls for a 70-percent probability of 3 to 6 tropical cyclones, which includes tropical depressions, tropical storms and hurricanes. NOAA will update the 2018 Atlantic seasonal outlook in early August, just prior to the peak of the season.

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COUNCILMAN

ALEX GUAJARDO JOSE ROEL FLORES

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FELIPE QUINTANILLA RAMIRO LOYA

Hurricane Season 2018

are you PREPARED? Ruben Garcia Fire Captain

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Hurricane awareness tour comes to the Valley

A group of people line up to enter the U.S. Air Force Reserve C-130J aircraft during Monday’s 2018 NOAA Hurricane Awareness Tour in McAllen.

By Jose De Leon III After what he called an “active” 2017 hurricane season, Dennis Feltgen is ensur-

ing the public is prepared for this year’s hurricane season. To commemorate National Hurricane Preparedness Week, the National Ocean-

ic and Atmospheric Administration chose McAllen as the city to kick off its 2018 NOAA Hurricane Awareness Tour. As part of the tour, NOAA visited the McAllen Miller International Airport in early May, where the public got a chance to meet NOAA hurricane experts, scientists and crew members who respond during hurricanes. Attendees also toured some of the aircraft that help forecasters keep the public safe during these weather events. “This event makes people aware hurricane season is coming,” Feltgen said. “They have an opportunity to come out here and it gets them thinking into what they need for hurricane season.” According to the NOAA website, the Atlantic hurricane season is the annual formation of tropical cyclones in the Northern Hemisphere. The season officially began on June 1, 2018, and will end on November 30, 2018. Last year’s hurricane season, the website stated, produced 17 named storms of which six became major hurricanes. Three of those hurricanes-Harvey, Irma and Maria-caused $282 billion in damages and racked up a death tolls in the thousands. So far this year, Subtropical Storm Alfredo got an early jump on the 2018 hurricane season-which officially begins Friday-when it made landfall in the Florida Panhandle Monday. The storm prompted Florida, Alabama and Mississippi to declare states of emergency over the weekend and killed two people in North Carolina.

Progress Times photo by Jose De Leon III

“We saw what 2017 did, odds are this is going to be an active a season again,” Feltgen said. “You need to be prepared.” The main attraction of the tour was the Gulfstream-IV jet and a U.S. Air Force Reserve C-130J aircraft known as the “Hurricane Hunter.” Both aircrafts are used to collect data on a storm. The C-130J is a low-flying aircraft that flies up to 50,000 feet through a storm and transmits any data on the storm to the hurricane center who relays it to the public, according to Mission Director Christopher Dyke. “The data we collect is vital,” Dyke explained. “We take and and locate the actual position and strength of storm, relay it to the hurricane center and they relay it to the public. We’re the first responders.” According to Feltgen, hurricane preparedness is essential. It’s better to be prepared before a major hurricane rather than scrambling to gather supplies just before a major storm hits, he said. “The time to prepare is now. If there’s just one hurricane coming out of the entire year, if that one hits you, it’s a bad year for you,” Feltgen said. “We go in every year acting like this is the year we’re getting hit. That’s why we want people to have a plan. Check your supplies, find out if you’re in an evacuation zone, check your insurance and make sure your neighbor is also prepared.” For more information on hurricane preparedness, visit Hurricane.gov/prepare.

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www.cityofpalmview.com Evacuation Route: Out of the Rio Grande Valley • I-2 East to Pharr interchange, then take North Interstate 69C towards San Antonio, TX. •I-2 West to Laredo, TX then take north I-35 towards San Antonio. •For more Information check local maps and/or Google Maps. Emergency Supply Lists: Basic Emergency Supplies •Water, One gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation. •Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food. •Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both. •Flashlight and extra batteries. •First Aid Kit •Whistle to signal for help. •Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place. •Moist towels, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation. •Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities.

•Can opener for food, (canned food.) •Local Maps •Sand Bags, Plywood (For Windows).

Keep a list of contact information for reference: •City of Palmview Emergency Management Office (956) 432-0300 •Palmview Police/Fire Department - 911 • www.cityofpalmview.com •Hidalgo County EMS - 911 •State, County and City/Town Government •Local Hospitals, Utilities, American Red Cross •Your Property Insurance Agent

Shelters •TBA in coordination with Hidalgo County through local media outlets Emergency Supply Lists: Extras to consider •Prescription medications and glasses •Infant formula and diapers •Pet food and extra water for your pet •Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container. •Cash or travelers checks and change •Emergency reference material such as a first aid book or information from ww.ready.gov •Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person. •Fire Extinguisher •Matches in a waterproof container •Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items •Mess Kits, paper cups, plates, and plastic utensils, and paper towels •Paper and pencil •Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children.

Weather: •NOAA Weather Radios (Can be purchased at your local Walmart) •Also refer to social media for any updates via Twitter, Facebook, and Snapchat for any updates with local weather stations/ TV stations. • Radio NOAA emite avisos, vigilancias, pronósticos y otra información de riesgo del Servicio Nacional de Meteorología 24 horas al día. Conocido como “la voz del Servicio Nacional de Meteorología,” Radio NOAA es proporcionada como un servicio público por la Oficina Nacional de Administración Oceánica y Atmosférica y el Departamento de Comercio Federal.

Gilbert Zamora - (956) 432-0303 Interim Police Chief

Jerry Alaniz - (956) 432-0307

Fire Chief / Emergency Management Coordinator

Gerardo Perez Mayor

Javier Ramirez Mayor Pro-Tem

Joselito Hernandez Councilman

Linda Sarabia Councilwoman

Leo Olivares - Interim City Manager

Ricardo Villarreal Councilman

Joel Garcia Councilman

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HURRICANE

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BEAUMONT

MEXICO

GA JACKSONVIILLE

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TEXAS

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DALLAS

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HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS GUIDE | RECENT EVENTS

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Reflecting on 2017 Reflecting on Storms 2017 Storms T

o this date, the hiso this date, the deadliest natural disaster in United States deadliest natural tory occurred in 1900 when a hurricane ripped through an undisaster in United States prepared Galveston, Texas. history occurred in 1900

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association, an estimated 6,000 to 12,000 people lost their lives. Last year showcased some of the fiercest and most destructive storms in our nation’s history. In fact, the National Hurricane Center says last season entered the list as the 17th deadliest hurricane season since the nation began keeping track of statistics. In addition to claiming hundreds of lives, these storms caused damage in the excess of $200 billion. These numbers are expected to rise as recovery efforts are still underway in places like Puerto Rico. The sheer destruction of this epic hurricane season should encourage you to take preparedness seriously. Here are the largest storms from 2017: HURRICANE HARVEY This Category 4 storm crashed into the United States with sustained winds estimated at 132 miles per hour. Harvey stalled with its eye over or near the Texas coast, leaving behind the historic amount of over 60 inches or rain of the southwestern portion of the state. The torrential downpour

when a hurricane ripped caused disastrous flooding to both resithrough properties. an unprepared dential and commercial Harvey was directly responsible claiming the Galveston,for Texas. lives of at least 68 people. According to the National Oceanic HURRICANE IRMA and Atmospheric Association, an estiThis disastrous storm developed from a mated 6,000 to 12,000 people lost tropical wave off the west coast of Africa their lives. on Aug. 27. On Sept. 9, showcased it struck some Cubaof as Last year the a fiercest and most destructive Category 5 hurricane, the first of thisstorms size in our nation’s history. In fact, the to hit the country since 1932. It was the National Hurricane Center says last next day whenseason it crossed into entered the list Marco as the 17thIsdeadliest hurricane wind season since the land, Florida, with estimated speeds nationper began keeping track of statisof around 141 miles hour. Seven deaths tics. In addition to claiming hundreds were directly caused by the exceptionally of lives, these storms caused damage high winds, excessive andThese high in the excessrainfall of $200 billion. numbers to are the expected to rise as recovsurf that Irma brought United States. efforts are still underway in places The storm wasery indirectly responsible for like Puerto Rico. 85 deaths in the country, 80 of those being The sheer destruction of this epic hurricane season should encourage in Florida. you to take preparedness seriously. HURRICANE MARIA Here are the largest storms from 2017: Citizens of Puerto Rico are still reeling from the effects of this powerfulHARVEY hurricane, HURRICANE This Category 4 storm crashed into which was a Category 5 storm when it hit United States with sustained Dominica and athe Category 4 as it barreled winds estimated at 132 miles per into Puerto Rico. Bringing nearhour. Harvey stalledwinds with its eye over or near the Texas leaving ing 155 miles per hour, thecoast, island is still the historic of overas 60 suffering from behind massive poweramount outages inches or rain of the southwestern portion of the state. The torrential downpour caused disastrous flooding to both residential and commercial properties. Harvey was directly responsible for claiming the lives of at least 68 people.

changed paths before her expected arrival it rebuilds. As of April 2018,high thewinds, official HURRICANE IRMA excessive rainfall and high Category 4 as it barreled into Puerto Carolina. death count in PRdeveloped is at 65. Unfortunately, This disastrous storm surf that Irma broughtin to North the United Rico. Bringing winds nearing 155 this anumber is off expected to rise. The States. TheUnitstorm was indirectly from tropical wave the west coast miles per hour, the island is still sufof on Aug. 27. On Sept. was 9, it spared responsible for 85 deaths in the coun- fering from massive power outages as edAfrica States mainland as Irma struck Cuba as a Category 5 hurricane, the first of this size to hit the country since 1932. It was the next day when it crossed into Marco Island, Florida, with estimated wind speeds of around 141 miles per hour. Seven deaths were directly caused by the exceptionally

try, 80 of those being in Florida.

HURRICANE MARIA

Hurricane Season is Here! 24 HOUR PHONE (956) 585-6081

Citizens of Puerto Rico are still reeling from the effects of this powerful hurricane, which was a Category 5 storm when it hit Dominica and a

it rebuilds. As of April 2018, the official death count in PR is at 65. Unfortunately, this number is expected to rise. The United States mainland was spared as Irma changed paths before her expected arrival in North Carolina.

DON’T WAIT. TAKE ACTION NOW.

Drinking Water Preparedness: ● Have clean containers for drinking water on hand. ● 1 gallon of water per person, per day, is a good rule of thumb. ● Be sure to have extra water for your pets. ● Children, nursing mothers, elderly, and the ill may require more water per day.

● Water saved in clean bottles before the storm should be good for several months, if properly stored.

● Be sure you have installed your own shut-off valve just past

the meter, inside your property. Close that valve if you have a water break on your service line.

● Pay attention to authorities on the status of your water supply.

VISIT THESE WEBSITES FOR MORE INFORMATION: CDC www.cdc.gov

FEMA www.ready.gov/hurricanes

NATIONAL HURRICANE CENTER www.nhc.noaa.gov/prepare/ready.php TCEQ www.tceq.texas.gov 4210 E MAIN AVE ALTON, TX 78573

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HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS GUIDE | BEFORE THE STORM

Reacting to an Incoming Storm T

he one advantage people have in the face of an approaching hurricane is there is usually plenty of time to prepare before the storm hits. Technology has advanced to the point where meteorologists can identifystorms early over the warm tropical Atlantic, even before it becomes a tropical depression, then a tropical storm.

Once a cyclone’s winds hit 74 mph, it’s a hurricane. If you live in a coastal area, you should have emergency supplies such as food, water, batteries and flashlights ready as soon as hurricane season starts. Below are a few tips from the Department of Homeland Security’s Ready campaign about what to expect when a hurricane is expected: 36 HOURS FROM IMPACT Check your emergency supplies and review your evacuation plan. Stay tuned to

Reacting to an Incoming Storm

your local news and national weather re- tions. Always listen to local officials and and family know where you are. LESS THAN 6 HOURS ports. Pay attention to watches and warn- if they tell you to evacuate, leave. 6 TO 8 HOURS FROM IMPACT FROM IMPACT ings issued for your area and get your cars ready to leave. If you’re under an evacuation order, While you still have power and water, fill 18 TO 36 HOURS FROM IMPACT you should have left by now. If you’re containers for well more than you think High winds are on the way. Bring in light- choosing to hunker down, preparations you need. Turn your refrigerator © ADOBEand STOCK he start one advantage in the life face and of anproperty approaching hurricane is there usually plenty of time weight objects and preparing people your have to protect should be freezer toisthe lowest settings and toavoid prepare before the storm hits. Technology advanced to the meteorologists completed. Makehas sure your phone haspoint a where property with storm shutters or boarding opening them to keep can youridentify food cold. A full charge andeven don’t expect emergency windows. Your localearly homeover improvement well-insulated fridge keep food cold storms the warm tropical Atlantic, before it becomes a tropical depression, thenwill a tropical storm. store can help you choose the right mate- services to respond during the storm, so for about 48 hours if you keep the door Once have a cyclone’s winds hitIf74you’re mph, review yoursure evacuation have shutters. If you’re shut. prone to flood- during the storm, so make sure you make you plan. Stay rials if you don’t shutters. it’s a hurricane. have a first-aid kit handy and that tuned to your local news and national ing, take proper precautions. Always have a first-aid kit handy and that friends prone to flooding, take proper precauIf you live in a coastal area, you friends and family know where you weather reports. Pay attention to listen to local officials and if they tell

Reacting to an Incoming Storm should have emergency supplies such as food, water, batteries and flashlights ready as soon as hurricane season starts. Below are a few tips from the Department of Homeland Security’s Ready campaign about what to expect when a hurricane is expected:

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6 TO 8 HOURS FROM IMPACT

LESS THAN 6 HOURS FROM IMPACT

While you still have power and

under an evacuation order, water, fill containers for well more FROM IMPACT he one advantage people have in the face of an approaching isIf you’re there usually of you time to your than you think need. Turn should have is left by now. If you’replenty High winds are onhurricane the way. Bring in you refrigerator and freezer to the lowest choosing to hunker down, preparalightweight objects and start preparFull Oil Change settings avoid opening them to tions to protect life and property ing your property with storm shutterswhere prepare before theService storm hits. Technology has advanced to the point meteorologists canandidentify or boarding windows. Your local home should be completed. Make sure your keep your food cold. A well-insulated fridge will keep food cold for about 48 36 HOURS FROM IMPACT phone has a full charge and don’tthen improvement store can helpa you storms early over the warm tropical Atlantic, even before it becomes tropical depression, a tropical storm. Check your emergency supplies and choose the right materials if you don’t expect emergency services to respond hours if you keep the door shut.

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Once a cyclone’s winds hit 74 mph, it’s a hurricane. If you live in a coastal area, you should have emergency supplies such as food, water, batteries and flashlights ready as soon as hurricane season starts. Below are a few tips from the Department of Homeland Security’s Ready campaign about Change what toOil expect when a hurricane is with FREE expected:

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review your evacuation plan. Stay tuned to your local news and national weather reports. Pay attention to watches and warnings issued for your area and get your cars ready to leave.

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6 TO 8 HOURS FROM IMPACT

If you’re under an evacuation order, you should have left by now. If you’re choosing to hunker down, preparations to protect life and property should be completed. Make sure your phone has a full charge and don’t expect emergency services to respond

during the storm, so make sure you have a first-aid kit handy and that friends and family know where you are.

LESS THAN 6 HOURS FROM IMPACT

While you still have power and water, fill containers for well more than you think you need. Turn your refrigerator and freezer to the lowest settings and avoid opening them to keep your food cold. A well-insulated fridge will keep food cold for about 48 hours if you keep the door shut.

10B

HURRICANE 2018 | progresstimes

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HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS GUIDE | BEFORE THE STORM

The American Academy of Pediatrics stresses to parents that children should not be separated from their families or caregivers during any major pre-planning events. This includes evacuation, transport, sheltering or the delivery of other services. The Academy suggests that if separation is unavoidable, a reunion should occur as soon as it is safe to do so. A great way to avoid this instance is to have a plan in place for the possible scenarios that may play out. Luckily, hurricanes give plenty of warning before their arrival is expected. Create a family plan that draws out where you will go, how to communicate if a separation persists and where to meet up once it is safe.

DURING THE STORM

Are You Covered In The Event of A

If your city is under a mandatory evacuation, don’t risk waiting out the storm. When amilies in hurricane-prone you regions cannot afford your to be without have evacuated an emergency preparedness kit. The items are inexpensive, home, your chilkits are easy to build and they canexplain be the to difference between © ADOBE STOCK dren about the importance of life and death. Assemble your kit before hurricane season and keep Contact me today, to it at the ready from June 1 untilfollowing Nov. 30. orders of their pub- f your forpeople have hepolicy one advantage the face of anneeds approaching hurricaneavailable is there is usually plenty ofhome. time to area of the lashlights, battery-powered review nants from destroyed homes pets,inkeep their in mind. lic where officials and why they willalert tof In coastal areas, has many hardwaretoand big• A NOAA Weather Radio: Stay prepare before the storm hits. Technology advanced the point meteorologists can identify home or business. Whether you need to rush outa like asbestos. adios and backup batteriesyour box stores hold special sales just before the progress your area is making cleanbe safer by leaving until the storms early over the warm tropical Atlantic, even before it becomes a tropical depression, then a tropical in storm. hurricane season. Take advantage of these up efforts and when the power may be of the home for an evacuation WHERE TO When building your kit, or your cell phones. Don’t a storm subsides. to stock up. Theplan. Federal Manrestored. Once a cyclone’s winds hit 74 mph, have shutters. If you’re prone to flood- during the storm, so make sure you review your evacuation Stay Emergency or will be waiting out the orget to pack extra batteries. don’t forget bring along extra tuned YOUR KIT agement Agency suggests enough • Electronics: If the power is out for exit’s a to hurricane. have a first-aid kit handy and that ing, take proper precautions. Always to yourSTORE local news and national having While in your safe spot, try t If you live in a coastal area, you and family you listenfor to local officials and if they tell reports. Payand attention to tended periods, you’ll be know gladwhere you have food, water supplies to last at least The supplies you rely on storm in friends your structure, make • Breathe Safe: A dust mask medicines, clothes and cash. If weather should have emergency supplies such watches and warnings issued for your you to evacuate, leave. are. to keep your routine as norbattery-powered radioss 72 hours. Depending on the strength of a several flashlights, as food, water, batteries and flashLESS to THAN 6 HOURS FROM areashould and get your be cars ready to leave. kept in a readily sure it is easy gather. you have young children or an help filter out contamiand batteries forIMPACT your cell phones.t storm and the amount of damage, it6could Jerry Saenz asbackup possible. Encourage lights ready as soon as hurricane seaTO 8mal HOURS Don’t forget toWhile packyou extra batteries. son starts. Below are a few tips from TO 36 HOURS still have power and take 18 days before you receive help. FROM IMPACT 1211 N. Conway Ave. children toSafe: bring along comthe Department of Homeland water, containers well morefilterR If you’re under an evacuation order, FROM IMPACT • Breathe A fill dust mask for can help WHAT TO PUT IN YOUR KIT

Security’s Ready campaign about Mission, TX 78572 what to expect when a hurricane is expected: Bus.: 956-585-2715 jerry.saenz.b4sa@statefarm.com 36 HOURS FROM IMPACT

Check your emergency supplies and Jerry Saenz

Agent

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than you think you need. Turn your High winds are on the way. Bring in you should have left by now. If you’re outpreparacontaminants from destroyed homes The top of your listpreparshould include athunker least down, refrigerator and freezer to the lowest choosing to lightweight objects and start like asbestos. When building gallon with of water per person at least settings and avoid openingyour them tokit, tionsfor to protect life and property ing one your property storm shutters don’t to your bring extra medifoodalong cold. A well-insulated shouldneed be completed. sureforget your keep or boarding windows. Your local home three days. Remember, you will it for Make keepIf food cold for about 48 a full charge cines, and don’t improvement store can help you clothesfridge andwill cash. you have young more than just drinking, sophone planhasaccordchoose the right materials if you don’t expect emergency services to respond hours if you keep the door shut.

ingly for sanitation and hygiene needs. There should also be plenty of non-perishable food. Think canned goods, nuts and dehydrated protein. Check expiration dates periodically and rotate with fresh items. In addition to food and water, don’t forget these important items suggested by FEMA:

children or pets, keep their needs in mind. WHERE TO STORE YOUR KIT The supplies you rely on should be kept in a readily available area of the home. Whether you need to rush out of the home for an evacuation or will be waiting out the storm in your structure, make sure it is easy to gather.

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GUIDE | BY THE NUMBERS HURRICANEX PREPAREDNESS 2018 | progresstimes

Children and Hurricanes

11B

Hurricane Season 2017 T

he Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30. The explosive storms of 2017 were fierce, fatal and record setting, so this time period should be on your radar if you live in a hurricane zone. Experts at National Geographic report that the United States suffered more than $200 billion worth of damage from 17 named storms during the season. The previous record was attributed to 2005, when Hurricane Katrina and 27 other hurricanes caused an estimated $159 billion. Take a look at these troubling statistics from the 2017 season, as reported by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. • Once Hurricane Harvey made landfall, there were 30 presidential

declarations (14 emergency declarations and 16 major disaster declarations), as well as 25 Fire Management Assistance grants deployed. • The country’s largest sustained air mission for food and water occurred after Irma and Maria. • More than $2 billion of disaster assistance was paid to survivors. • Nearly 8 percent of the United States population was affected by a hurricane during the 2017 season. • There were 133,000 flood insurance claims. Approximately $6.3 billion has been paid out to assist in

rebuilding efforts. • More than 4.7 million survivors registered for individual disaster assistance from FEMA. This is more than hurricanes Rita, Wilma, Katrina and Sandy combined. • Hurricanes Harvey and Irma marked the first time that two Category 4 hurricanes made landfall in the United States. • Irma was the longest-lived hurricane since Ivan in 2004. The storm lasted for 11 days and winds peaked at 185 mph. • Hurricane Harvey set a record for the most rainfall from a United States tropical cyclone, with more than 60 inches of rain in some areas. • Hurricane Maria was the first Category 4 hurricane to make landfall on the main island of Puerto Rico in 85 years.

he stress associated with an incoming hurricane affect both parents and their children, who can tell when mom and dad are full of worry. Be considerate of the fine line between educating and terrifying impressionable kids about the dangers of these natural disasters.

KEEP THE FAMILY TOGETHER

fort like board of games The items American Academy Pediatrics stresses to parents that children should for the family. Talk to them not be separated from their families or caregivtabout feelings have events. ers during any majorthey pre-planning nabout This includes evacuation, transport, the storm. It’s likely sheltering or the delivery of other services. The that they havethat heard horror Academy suggests if separation is unavoidable, atheir reunionpeers should or occur as stories from soon as it is safe to do so. through exposure. A great waymedia to avoid this instance is to have a plan in place for the possible scenarios Reassure them that the most that may play out. Luckily, hurricanes give plenty of warning before their arrival is expected. Create a family plan that draws out where you will go, how to communicate if a separation persists and where to meet up once it is safe. DURING THE STORM If your city is under a mandatory evacuation, don’t risk waiting out the storm. When you have evacuated your home, explain to your children about the importance of following orders of their public officials and why they will be safer by leaving until

the storm subsides. important thing keeping While in your safe spot,istry to keep your routine as normal as possible. Encourage everyone safe throughout the children to bring along comfort items like event. board games for the family. Talk to them about feelings they have about the storm. It’s likely that they have heard horror stoAFTER THEorSTORM ries from their peers through media exposure. Reassure them that the Involve your children in most important thing is keeping everyone safe small cleanup throughout the event.projects AFTER STORM around their THE neighborhood. Involve your children in small cleanup projects around their neighborhood. Always ensure they are safe and not around environments with deep water or downed electrical wires — even if the power is out. Nemours Children’s Health System recommends keeping an eye on your child’s behavior after a storm. Watch for signs of stress, nightmares or excessive clinginess. These emotions are common in children who have went through a traumatic experience. Talk to a pediatrician about your concerns.

1: Make sure your Generator, Chain Saw and Water Pump will run before your need them.

Always safe after aseason, storm. Watch for If your fuelensure is older thanthey 30 days,are its best to get fresh fuelior for hurricane and treat it with B3C and notEthanol around environments of stress, nightmares or Solutions Shield. Come in and ask us about thissigns revolutionary fuel treatment. with deep water or downed excessive clinginess. These 2: Take a look around your and look for potentialemotions hazards. electrical wires —home even if the are common in Trim trees before a hurricane to reduce potential branches from breaking oﬀ and damaging your home power is out. children who have went and vehicles. Repairing a fence that is weak or missing some boards can prevent the damage from wind Nemours Children’s Health through a traumatic experiblown debris during a hurricane. bl System recommends keeping ence. Talk to a pediatrician an on your child’s behavabout your concerns. 3: Beeye prepared: Have your Generator, Water Pump, or Chain Saw serviced by MAE Power Equipment. MAE Power can get you ready for the 2016 Hurricane Season. If you are looking to purchase a generator, chain saw or water pump, come in and ask the professionals at MAE power Equipment.

HURRICANE 2018 | progresstimes

12B

www.ptrgv.com

PREPARATION

Since 1980, 70 hurricanes &

DIVISION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

tropical storms

HERE FOR OUR COMMUNITY BEFORE AND AFTER THE STORM

have struck the Texas Coast!

HURRICANES & FLOODING

That is an average of nearly two a year.

» Protect Your Personal Documents and Special Items » Develop a Family Flood Plan » Never Drive on Flooded Roads

PLANNING AND PREPARING

» Prepare for Special Needs (The Elderly, Young and Your Pets) » Flood-proof Your Home With Sand Bags, Board Windows Up » Follow Evacuation Routes » Bring Medications

HURRICANE SUPPLY KIT » Have At Least a 7 Day Supply of Non-Perishable Food and Water » Keep a Battery Powered Radio, Television and Flashlight Ready » Bring Extra Clothing, Blankets and Sleeping Bags or Gear » Identification Cards, Medical Records, Birth Certificates and Lists of Family Contacts

TRANSPORTATION ASSISTANCE REGISTRY

» CALL 211

Several links to help you get prepared

Ready.gov Redcross.org FEMA.gov Weather.gov

City of Mission

Emergency Operations Center

Plan F or Disast er Now

Hidalgo County Emergency Management

956-580-8705 956-383-2615 www.missiontexas.us