Safety Tips for Weathering the Storms

Tornadoes

Tornadoes form during severe thunderstorms. A tornado watch indicates that there is strong potential for tornadoes to develop in your area while a tornado warning means that a tornado has actually been spotted in the area. When a tornado warning is issued for your area seek shelter immediately.

During a Tornado at Home: During a Tornado seek shelter in an interior room with no windows on the lowest level of your home. If you are in a mobile home, and have time, find shelter in a sturdy building. Be prepared ahead of time by identifying what might work as a ‘safe room’ in your home. Check that your emergency kit is fully stocked and accessible. (https://blog.response.restoration.noaa.gov/tornado-preparedness-how-stay-safe-when-tornadoes-threaten)

During a Tornado Outside: Seek shelter in a sturdy building as soon as possible. Sheds, storage facilities, mobile homes, and tents are not safe structures during a tornado.

During a Tornado in a Car: If possible drive to a sturdy building to seek shelter. If you are unable to drive, either get low in your vehicle and cover your head or leave your vehicle and take shelter in a low lying area like a ditch or ravine. Bridges and overpasses are not safe structures during a tornado. (https://www.weather.gov/safety/tornado-during)

Hurricanes/Tropical Storms

Hurricane season runs June 1^st to November 30^th in New York State with the peak coming in late summer/early fall. To check for current hurricane warnings in your area visit NOAA’s National Hurricane Center.

Before a Hurricane/Tropical Storm: Be prepared with an emergency plan and a fully stocked emergency kit. Know your evacuation routes and identify a safe location to travel to if evacuation is necessary. Prepare your home by cleaning debris from gutters and bringing in outside furniture.

During a Hurricane/Tropical Storm: Take refuge in an established shelter if possible. If flooding occurs move the the highlest level of the building, but do not go into a closed attic. Do not swim or drive through floodwaters, as little as 1 foot of water can sweep a vehicle away. (https://www.ready.gov/hurricanes)

High Winds

High wind events are becoming increasingly common due to climate change. Know how to be prepared ahead of time to keep you and your home safe.

Before High Winds: When high winds are predicted be sure to secure any loose outdoor items. Take care of any dead tree branches near your home prior to storm warnings.

During High Winds: Move to an interior room of the building you are in during high wind warnings.  If in a car be sure to grip the steering wheel with both hands and slow down. For more information visit: https://www.weather.gov/safety/wind.

Flooding

As we experience more events with heavy precipitation flooding will become increasingly common. Prepare ahead of time so you know your risks and where to go in an emergency.

Before a Flood: Stay informed of whether your home, school, or work are in an area prone to flooding by visiting the FEMA Flood Map Service Center. Know the best evacuation routes in case of flooding and what roads to avoid. Create a clear communication plan with your family and be sure to assemble your emergency kit ahead of time.

During a Flood: Tune into local news to stay informed of the situation. Move to high ground and follow evacuation orders. Do not walk or drive through floodwaters, they may be deeper than they appear or contaminated.  For more information visit: https://www.weather.gov/safety/flood-education.

Extreme Heat

Extreme heat events are becoming increasingly common in New York State. Vulnerable populations, such as adults over 65, infants and children, pregnant people, and outdoor workers. Know how to stay cool and safe on hot days.

Before: Install air conditioning units in your home or know what community spaces where you can go to cool off such as community centers, churches, or libraries. Visit the CDC’s Heat Health page for more information.

During: Visit your local cooling center if you do not have air conditioning. Drink plenty of fluids and wear lightweight clothing. Visit your local pool or public swimming area to cool off. Check on friends and neighbors, especially those who are older or may be suffering from chronic conditions made worse in the heat.

Drought

With unpredictable rainfall we are likely to see an increasing number of droughts in the summer months. Check the U.S. Drought Monitor to check if your area is in a drought.

Before: Fix leaky faucets and check your plumbing to ensure you are not wasting water. Choose efficient appliances that use lower volumes of water. Minimize the need to water your garden by planting native, drought-tolerant plants. When watering lawns and gardens, do so in the early morning or late evening when it is cooler.

During: Take shorter showers and avoid letting water run unnecessarily. Operate appliances like dishwashers and washing machines only when full. Water lawns and gardens in the early morning or evening and do so in short sessions to allow for better absorption and less runoff.

Extreme Cold

While our winters are generally becoming milder, days with extremely cold temperatures are an annual occurrence. Vulnerable populations are similar to those during extreme heat events and include infants and children, adults over 65, outdoor workers, those living with chronic illness, and any unhoused people.

Before: Know where your local warming centers are in case of a power outage. If traveling be sure to carry a winter emergency kit in your car. Include a warm blanket, flashlight and batteries, non-perishable food, and winter boots.

During: Dress warmly when going outside. Avoid wearing cotton and opt for synthetic or wool fabrics that can insulate when wet. Avoid being outside for prolonged periods of time.

Ice Storms/Winter Storms

Prepare for winter storms before they happen. Check your local weather sites such as Hudson Valley Weather or the National Weather Service Weather Prediction Center (September 15- May 15) to track winter storms.

Before: Make sure you have well-stocked emergency kits in your car and home that include snacks, warm layers, and a battery-operated flashlight. During the colder months be sure to check heating fuel levels and refuel as needed. Keep a small supply of non-perishable food (as well as dog/cat food if you have pets) in case of power outages and/or road closures.

During: Find shelter as soon as possible and remain indoors during a storm. If using a gas furnace for heat be sure to check that snow drifts have not blocked any pipes/exhaust leading outside. If the power goes out during a winter storm close the curtains and close off unneeded rooms. Wear layers and be sure to stay hydrated and fueled.