Red Cross Prepares for Tropical Storm Ian and Provides Safety and Evacuation Resources

Miami, Fla. (September 26, 2022) — Hurricane Ian has formed and is expected to strengthen to a major hurricane, with a projected landfall along the Florida Gulf Coast midweek. Hurricane and Tropical Storm Warnings and Watches have already been issued for parts of the West Coast and Keys. All of South Florida will feel the impacts of this storm in some form, which could include heavy rain, high winds, power outages and tornadoes.

The American Red Cross has been preparing in advance of impacts in our area and across the state, and urges residents to monitor closely, stay alert, get prepared and stay safe.

“The threats from this storm to our area are real. It is critical to take the necessary precautions to keep you and your families safe. This includes monitoring local news and updates from local emergency management regarding weather conditions,” said Deborah Koch, Executive Director, American Red Cross Greater Miami and The Keys Chapter.

See this  important storm preparedness and safety information below:

Get your home ready.

  • Store outside items, such as lawn furniture and trash cans, to prevent them from being moved by high winds and possibly hurting someone.

Tune into your local radio, NOAA radio or news channel for the latest updates. Be alert for evacuation orders from local officials.

  • Check your emergency kit and replace any missing items.
  • Prepare to evacuate quickly and know your routes and destinations.
  • Fill your car’s gas tank in case an evacuation notice is issued.
  • Never ride out a severe storm in a mobile home, even if it’s in a non-evacuation zone.

Don’t forget your pets.

  • As conditions deteriorate, bring them indoors and keep a close eye on them.
  • Prepare an emergency kit for your pets with leashes, carriers, food, water, bowls, litter, litterbox, and photos of you with your pet in case you are separated.

As storm approaches, stay indoors. Avoid beaches, riverbanks and floodwaters.

  • Stay alert for extended rainfall and subsequent flooding. Don’t walk, swim or drive through floodwaters. Remember: Turn around, don’t drown.
  • If the power is out, use a flashlight. Don’t use candles or any open flame for lighting.

Know the difference between hurricane watch and warning.

  • Hurricane watch means conditions are a threat within 48 hours. Prepare to act if a warning is issued and stay informed.
  • Hurricane warning means conditions are expected within 36 hours. Stay indoors, ideally in a room without windows.
  • Tornado watch – Tornadoes are possible in and near the watch area. Review and discuss your emergency plans, and check supplies and your safe room. Be ready to act quickly if a warning is issued or you suspect a tornado is approaching. Acting early helps to save lives!
  • Tornado warning – A tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. Tornado warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property. Go immediately underground to a basement, storm cellar or an interior room (closet, hallway or bathroom).
  • Flood/flash flood watch — Flooding or flash flooding is possible in your area.
  • Flood/flash flood warning — Flooding or flash flooding is already occurring or will occur soon in your area.

Additional Red Cross Resources

Download the free Red Cross Emergency App for real-time weather alerts, open Red Cross shelters, and expert advice on emergency situations. Search “American Red Cross” in app stores or go to redcross.org/apps. You can also enable the Red Cross Hurricane Alert skill on Amazon Alexa-enabled devices to receive warnings about an approaching hurricane and preparedness information.

For more preparedness and safety resources, visit redcross.org/prepare.

Helping those impacted by Hurricane Ian

Given the significant threats to the Florida Gulf Coast, the Greater Miami and The Keys Chapter of the American Red Cross could be supporting our Red Cross colleagues directly impacted by the brunt of the storm. Depending on impacts on our area, volunteers will be placed on standby to deploy.

Red Cross also encourages local residents to learn about ways to volunteer in the event of needs post storm. Visit redcross.org/SFLvolunteer to see opportunities and register.

YOU CAN HELP people affected by disasters like storms and countless other crises by making a gift to Red Cross Disaster Relief. Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from disasters big and small. Visit redcross.org, call 800-RED-CROSS, or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

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