Severe Weather

Know where to go if you're ordered to evacuate. Know the local hurricane evacuation route(s) to take and have a plan for where you can stay. www.vaemergency.gov/know-your-zone

Do you have a disaster supply kit? Remember to include a flashlight, batteries, cash, first aid supplies, and copies of your critical information if you need  to evacuate. Learn more: vaemergency.gov/prepare/emergency-kit

Plan ahead: Before a storm, stock up on supplies. Lean more about what to stock up on: vaemergency.gov/prepare/emergency-kit

Plan ahead: Before a storm refill your prescriptions. Lean more: vaemergency.gov/prepare/make-a-plan

Make sure your food is safe when the power goes out. Lean more: vdh.virginia.gov/environmental-health/food-safety-in-virginia/emergencies/

Be tech ready. Make sure your phone is charged and you have emergency apps download.  Learn more: ready.gov/get-tech-ready

Bring your pets inside before a storm and make sure they're a part of your emergency plan. Lean more: redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/pet-disaster-preparedness.html

Do you know the difference between a storm watch and a storm warning?

A watch means that you should be prepared, as severe weather is possible in your area. A warning means that severe weather has been spotted or is on radar in your area. A warning means you need to take action by seeking shelter and finding safety immediately.

Learn more: https://www.weather.gov/sjt/WatchWarningAdvisoryExplained

Take steps to protect yourself when the power goes out:  cdc.gov/natural-disasters/response/what-to-do-protect-yourself-during-a-power-outage.html 

If you lose power, use battery powered flashlights and lanterns.  If you have to use candles, keep away from anything that can catch fire. Learn more: cdc.gov/natural-disasters/response/what-to-do-protect-yourself-during-a-power-outage.html

Take steps to protect yourself when the power goes out:  cdc.gov/natural-disasters/response/what-to-do-protect-yourself-during-a-power-outage.html 

Portable generators can cause carbon monoxide poisoning, electrical shock/electrocution or fire. Learn how to protect yourself at www.cdc.gov/natural-disasters/psa-toolkit/use-a-generator-safely.html

Remember to keep generators and other alternate power/heat sources outside, at least 20 feet away from windows and doors and protected from moisture; and NEVER try to power the house wiring by plugging a generator into a wall outlet. See tips at www.cdc.gov/natural-disasters/psa-toolkit/use-a-generator-safely.html

Using a space heater? Practice proper safety procedures www.cdc.gov/winter-weather/safety/stay-safe-during-after-a-winter-storm-safety.html

If you lose power, discard any perishable food that has been above 40°F for two hours or more. Learn more: vdh.virginia.gov/environmental-health/food-safety-in-virginia/emergencies/

If your power goes out during a storm, keep your fridge door closed! It will keep cold for about 4 hours unopened.  Learn more: vdh.virginia.gov/environmental-health/food-safety-in-virginia/emergencies/

A hurricane is coming, learn how prepare your home and stay safe: vaemergency.gov/threats/winter-weather

During the storm, stay indoors during the hurricane and away from windows and glass doors. Because of the strong winds associated with a hurricane, flying debris and falling trees are possible. Learn more: cdc.gov/hurricanes/safety/index.html#cdc_preparedness_steps_h2-be-ready-to-evacuate-or-stay-at-home

Seek shelter in an interior area of your home and refrain from going outside; winds often pick up strength as the eye of the storm passes. Learn more: cdc.gov/hurricanes/safety/index.html#cdc_preparedness_steps_h2-be-ready-to-evacuate-or-stay-at-home

Stay inside and away from windows, skylights and glass doors. Find a safe area in your home (an interior room, a closet or bathroom on the lower level). Learn more: cdc.gov/hurricanes/safety/index.html#cdc_preparedness_steps_h2-be-ready-to-evacuate-or-stay-at-home

Don't drive in flooded areas.  Cars and other vehicles won't protect you from floodwaters. They can be swept away or may stall in moving water. Learn more about staying safe after a storm: cdc.gov/hurricanes/safety/how-to-safely-stay-safe-after-a-hurricane-or-other-tropical-storm.html

Avoid floodwater.  If you have to be in or near floodwater, wear a life jacket—especially if the water is rising. cdc.gov/hurricanes/safety/how-to-safely-stay-safe-after-a-hurricane-or-other-tropical-storm.html

Stay away from downed powerlines and call your power company to report them. Learn more: cdc.gov/hurricanes/safety/how-to-safely-stay-safe-after-a-hurricane-or-other-tropical-storm.html