Finer Women Always Weather

Finer Women Always Weather the Storm

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Hurricane Zeta

By Shannan Smith, MPA

Alpha Alpha Beta Zeta Chapter

Hurricane season occurs annually, and no amount of preparation could have prepared the chapters of Southwest Louisiana for this historically active season. Louisiana had a record-breaking hurricane season with five named storms making landfall: Hurricane Cristobal, Tropical Storm Marco, Hurricane Laura, Hurricane Delta, and Hurricane Zeta. Hurricane Laura wreaked havoc on Southwest Louisiana and the chapters in the area have had to deal with lack of running water and electricity for over three weeks. During recovery, Hurricane Delta made landfall 14 miles east of where Hurricane Laura made landfall 40 days prior.

Alpha Alpha Beta Zeta chapter, located in DeRidder, LA, is one of a few chapters located in Southwest Louisiana. Constant preparation was necessary due to being in the “cone of uncertainty” all hurricane season long. Utilizing the following preparation tips have been instrumental in weathering the storm. Louisiana was not the only state to experience an active hurricane season as many states in the gulf and east coast areas have had direct landfalls. While some of these states did not experience direct storm surges, they did experience devasting winds, rain, tornados, and extended power outages. The tips apply to any inclement weather situation in any state.

• Take pictures of belongings, housing structures, and vehicles to assist with insurance companies conducting adjustments • Keep all damage related repair and expense receipts for filing claims • Ensure proper insurance coverage for potential hazards for the area (flood, wind/hail, contents, liability, etc.) • Familiarize yourself with Federal assistance programs should your parish/ county be declared a disaster. • Have at least one-week supply of medication, nonperishable food items, water, clothing, shoes, and activities per household member • Have a full tank of gas in case of having to leave unexpectedly • Understand how to safely use a generator • Keep an emergency cash reserve in the home for purchasing items if ATMs and electronic purchasing devices are not in service • Have household identifications, financial, legal, and medical documents in weather resistant devices and accessible • Emergency kits with first aid supplies, flash lights, batteries, radio, and hygiene items • Create a plan for family members with special needs, the elderly, children, and pets • Individual sleeping arrangements for each household member • Familiarize yourself with emergency contacts (hospital, police, utility companies, etc.) • Have an evacuation route and a backup route • Pay attention to local government updates, warnings, and mandates

These tips will greatly assist with recovery efforts once the storm has passed. Restoring areas and cleaning up debris does account for many hurricane related injuries. Seek out professional help regarding downed power lines, fallen trees, stump removal, roof repairs, gutting of flooded structures, etc. After facing many hurricanes this season, Louisiana is as resilient and will continue to stay prepared in all-weather events. A season of rebuilding is upon all affected states, but it is easier to manage with the support of the Zeta S.O.S. program which provides support and assistance from the entire sisterhood to affected areas.