Tropical Storm Bertha has set its sights on the Gulf Coast, bringing a possible life-threatening storm surge, as much as six inches of rain, and 50 mph sustained winds to the region. Some areas are already feeling the effects of the storm, which could last through Friday.

The American Red Cross is closely monitoring the situation and preparing to respond if necessary with pre-positioned supplies already in the area and disaster teams in the region ready to support people impacted by the storm.

The National Hurricane Center reports Bertha will move along the Gulf Coast, affecting communities from the Florida Panhandle west to Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi and Texas. The storm is expected to strengthen then weaken as the week goes on. Some areas could see heavy rain through Friday which could lead to flash flooding. A storm surge watch has been issued from the Alabama/Florida Border to the mouth of the Mississippi River. Isolated tornadoes are also possible.

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW It’s critical to listen to the advice of local authorities and evacuate immediately if asked to do so. We encourage safety and being out of harm’s way above all. Know the difference between a watch and a warning. A watch means conditions are likely and to stay alert — a warning means act now. Tune into your local radio, NOAA radio or news channel for the latest updates.

HOW TO GET READY People should make their preparations now, remain vigilant and be alert for any warnings for their community. 

• If you need to leave your home, think about where you’ll go, how you’ll get there, where you’ll stay and what you’ll take with you. Don’t forget to include pets in your plans.  

• Write down important phone numbers on a contact card and carry it with you.  

• Have a backup battery or another way to charge your cell phone, and a battery-powered or hand-crank radio.  

• Sign up for free emergency alerts from your local government, and make sure you know what different types of alerts mean.  

• Gather critical supplies — like food, water and medicine — and organize them into a go-kit and a stay-at-home kit. Your go-kit should include three days of supplies that you can carry with you. Your stay-at-home kit should have two weeks of food and water and a one-month supply of medications and medical supplies.  

• If you have pets, include leashes, carriers, food, bowls, litter, litterbox and photos of you with your pet in case you’re separated. If you have young children, include diapers, wipes and formula.  

• Keep your personal, financial and medical records in a safe place that’s easy to access (hard copies or securely backed up). Consider keeping a list of your medications and dosages on a small card to carry with you. 

• Download the free Red Cross Emergency app for real-time alerts, expert advice in English and Spanish, and available disaster shelter and support locations.

FIND A SHELTER Anyone who needs a safe place to go can find information for open Red Cross shelters on redcross.org, the free Red Cross Emergency app or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767). Download the app by searching “American Red Cross” in your app store or by going to redcross.org/apps. You can also check with local officials and monitor local news for information on where to find emergency shelter.

We encourage people who plan to stay in a Red Cross shelter to bring prescription medications, extra clothing, pillows, blankets, hygiene supplies, other comfort items and important documents. Don’t forget to bring any special items for children, such as diapers, formula and toys, or for family members who have unique needs.

Red Cross shelters are open to everyone in need, regardless of race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation or citizenship status. All disaster assistance is free.