How to Be Hurricane-Ready in Alexandria: Just In Case

While Hurricane Joaquin’s path is uncertain, the latest forecast from the National Hurricane Center suggests the storm may hit Virginia this weekend.

It can’t hurt to be prepared.

Think a hurricane can’t do much damage? On Sept. 18, 2003, Alexandria suffered more than $2 million in damage from Hurricane Isabel, with widespread power outages, tidal flooding and tree damage, so the impacts of a hurricane are well known, the City of Alexandria points out.

Here are some tips from the City of Alexandria on how to be prepared, just in case:

Emergency management planners suggest having food, water, medications and other essentials on hand to last your family for three to five days.

Learn more about how to prepare your emergency kit, develop an emergency plan, and stay informed during a hurricane emergency.

• Get the facts about hurricane preparedness from the Virginia Department of Emergency Management
• Learn how people with special needs can prepare for an emergency
• Download the Virginia Business Emergency Toolkit to learn how businesses can prepare for weather emergencies

Keeping an eye on the weather forecast, it is important to understand the meaning of watches and warnings.

• HURRICANE WATCH: Hurricane conditions are possible , usually within 36 hours.
• HURRICANE WARNING: Hurricane conditions are expected, usually within 24 hours.
• SHORT TERM WATCHES AND WARNINGS: provide detailed information on specific hurricane threats, such as tornadoes, floods, and high winds.

During a Watch

• Updates about City of Alexandria services and programs will be posted on the City’s web site and sent to the media for broadcast.
• Fuel and service vehicles.
• Prepare to bring lawn furniture and other loose, lightweight objects inside.

During a Warning

• Turn the refrigerator to maximum cold and open only when necessary.
• Fill bathtub and large containers with water for sanitary purposes.
• If winds become strong, stay away from windows and doors. Go to an interior first-floor room such as a bathroom or closet. Close all interior doors and brace external doors.

Important Links

• Flooding Information: Alexandria’s low elevation and its proximity to the Potomac River make it susceptible to flooding. City residents should plan for flooding as part of their emergency preparedness planning.
• Post Storm Cleanup: Hurricanes can leave behind downed trees and debris throughout the City. Find out how to clean up after the storm.
• Power Outages: Check Dominion Power’s new online outage map.
• Health Concerns: After a storm has passed, failure to remove contaminated materials from your home can cause health risks; debris and flood waters can cause illness and injuries. Learn important measures for cleaning up.
• Food & Water Concerns: Recommendations for keeping water and food safe during a disaster
• A Guide for Consumers: proper food and water safety precautions in the event of flooding and/or power outages.
• Protect Yourself from Animal and Insect Related Hazards After a Natural Disaster

PHOTO courtesy of FEMA.gov

Watch the Emergency Preparedness Month video below for more tips: