The Inland Danger

Storm surge is usually considered the most dangerous part of a hurricane. Recently though, inland flooding has been the big killer. It has been responsible for more than half of hurricane-related deaths. One quarter of those deaths from 1970-1999 were people who drowned in their cars.

Two feet of water can float a car. Hurricanes can dump five to 10 inches of rain and, in some cases, more than 20 inches of rain can fall. Local residents were assaulted with more than 30 inches of rain from Hurricane Danny in 1997; 24 inches drenched the area in 1998 from Hurricane Georges. In these situations, storm drains can’t handle all the water and may become clogged with debris. Rivers will rise out of their bank and many areas will flood quickly. Drinking water may also be contaminated by floods.

Should You Stay or Go?

Have a good plan of action ready and stick to it. Don’t let the storm’s strength determine whether, or when, you evacuate. Storms can change strength and speed quickly. Leave early. Leaving too late puts you at risk of getting stuck in traffic as the storm moves inland.

If you live near the coast, in a low-lying area, in a flood plain or in a manufactured home, you should evacuate. If you live on high ground away from evacuation areas, then cover your windows and pick a small, interior room to ride out the storm with your hurricane survival kit. Tornadoes often develop as a storm approaches. It’s a good idea to pad your “safe room” with mattresses.

If you have any questions, you should call your local meteorologist or emergency management office.

After A Hurricane:

• Do not try to return to your home until evacuated areas have been cleared of danger.
• Have your driver’s license or utility bill handy for proof of residence.
• Be wary of weak bridges, overpasses, porches, and decks – and of downed power lines and any pools of water that they may be in.
• Beware of broken glass and other sharp objects.
• Pay attention to the smells around you; they may warn you of broken gas lines.
• Watch out for poisonous snakes driven from their dens by flooding rains or saltwater intrusion.
• Do not drink tap water until emergency management officials pronounce it safe.
• TV and radio will be the best sources of information after the storm, but if you cannot “tune in,” go to the nearest disaster relief center. Relief centers usually are set up near the hardest hit areas and can provide you with information and disaster assistance such as unemployment compensation, food stamps, etc.