Mississippi Storm Tips & Resources
Residents are on edge as heavy rain and flooding continues to slam Louisiana and parts of Mississippi. Due to the severity of the storm, flash flood warnings have been issued and roadways have been closed for the public’s safety.
Whenever there is a disaster it’s extremely important to stay informed in hopes of keeping you and your family safe. Listening to local weather updates and knowing which roads to avoid during a storm can be the difference between a calm and catastrophic outcome. Additionally, areas experiencing heavy hail should be extra cautious because baseball-sized hail has the potential to cause serious injury. If you or a family member sustains injuries during a disaster, call 911!
As a result of the recent storms, schools have cancelled class, roads are blocked off, and damage has been reported to various structures. Additionally, the National Weather Service declared a flash flooding emergency in north central Louisiana and in parts of neighboring Mississippi as well. Experts expect the heavy rain to continue into the weekend so we caution everyone in the area, be careful out there!
That is because even a modest amount of rainfall or hail can cause a great deal of damage to your home. If your home sustains damage as a result of rain or severe storms, call 911 Restoration of Central Mississippi and we’ll be out right away to come assist you! Meanwhile, because these storms can come on very quickly with little to no warning, staying informed and being prepared is vital when it comes to severe weather safety.
Staying Informed during a Storm
Keeping an eye and ear out for changes in weather patterns can help you gain crucial time for preparation during high winds. During inclement weather, keep tuned to your local radio and television channels for weather updates. Also, use apps on your cell phone to access important local information.
Listen to NOAA Weather Radio for the latest information on changing weather conditions and approaching storms and visit the National Weather Service website for updates and reports.
Knowing Disaster Warning Signs
Although tornadoes, hurricanes, and high winds can form with very little warning, there are a few signs you can look out for that suggest a disaster may be imminent:
- A funnel formation in the clouds
- A dark or green colored sky
- Large, dark, low-laying clouds
- Large hail or extremely heavy rain
- A loud roar that sounds like a freight train
If you see any of these signs, seek shelter immediately!
Finding Suitable Shelter
While there is no completely safe place to go during a disaster, finding appropriate shelter is very important. Prior to a storm, make an emergency plan with your family so everyone is on the same page when a disaster does actually strike. Proper disaster preparedness can go a long way toward preventing damage and harm in a catastrophe.
If you see the signs of a tornado or hurricane forming, or receive a warning from your local emergency services, find shelter immediately! If you don’t have a storm shelter or cellar at home, go to an inside room on the lowest floor of your house such as a hallway, bathroom, or closet. Avoid windows! These can be blown in by the strong winds and the flying glass could cause serious injuries to you and your family.
Take cover under anything stable and sturdy, and cover your eyes either with a blanket, towel, or your hands to keep flying debris away.
If you’re caught outdoors during high winds and there is no available indoor shelter, avoid areas with lots of trees or power lines. Take cover under something sturdy and be sure to protect your head and neck.
For more information on finding or building shelter during high winds, visit the tornadoes page on Ready.Gov.
Flood Safety Tips
Storms, rainfall, and high winds often go hand and hand. Because of this, flooding is often found in areas with severe weather. If your home or neighborhood experiences a flood, follow these tips:
- Safety First – Floods are dangerous and can result in death so the best tip we can give you is to always put the safety of you and your family first. If your home floods, move to higher ground and avoid areas subject to flooding. If you have a top floor or attic, relocate your family there.
- Avoid Roads – If possible, avoid driving altogether during a flood emergency. When flash floods occur they strike quickly, leading to collapsed bridges, downed trees and power lines, and roadways completely submerged in water. If you’re caught in your vehicle during a flood, avoid flooded roadways and look for higher ground in the event of rising water.
- Stay Updated – If you’re in an area experiencing heavy flooding, listen to a battery-operated radio for weather and storm updates. If you don’t own a radio, check weather reports on your cell phone, laptop, or television newscast. The website www.weather.gov is a great place to start.
- Protect Valuables – This includes both personal possessions as well as the home itself. Move furniture, valuables, and important documents like insurance information to a higher level in your home, such as a top floor or an attic. Additionally, shut off the main power supply, unplug electronics if safe to do so, and move hazardous materials to higher ground.
Additional Resources
Storm Warnings & Information:
Safety & Preparation Articles:
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