Tropical Storm Edouard is approaching the Gulf Coast, expected to bring heavy rain, strong winds and a storm surge today and tonight to parts of Texas and Louisiana. The American Red Cross is preparing to respond if necessary and urges people to pay attention to this storm and follow any instructions from officials.

Edouard could grow to a hurricane as it approaches the northwest Gulf Coast where tropical storm warnings and hurricane watches are in place. A WATCH means be prepared and a WARNING means take action. 

Storm surge warnings have been issued from High Island, Texas to the state line with Louisiana and as much as nine inches of rain is expected today and tomorrow. Edouard is carrying 40 mph winds which may intensify as the day goes on, and tornadoes are also possible across the region.

Coordinating response plans with officials in both Texas and Louisiana, the Red Cross is focused on identifying shelter locations, mobilizing trained disaster volunteers and readying relief supplies and emergency vehicles.

DURING THE STORM, be prepared to evacuate immediately if local officials advise. Bring your go-kit and pets. Don’t return home until officials say it is safe.

• Follow evacuation routes and don’t try to take shortcuts because they may be blocked.
• Don’t walk, swim or drive through floodwaters. Turn around, don’t drown!
• If officials don’t recommend evacuating, take shelter in an interior room. Stay away from glass windows and doors.
• Move to higher ground before flooding begins.

Find more hurricane safety information here.

DON’T FORGET TO download the free Red Cross First Aid app so you’ll know what to do if emergency help is delayed and the free Emergency app for weather alerts, open Red Cross shelter locations and safety steps for different emergencies. Choose whether you want to view the content in English or Spanish with an easy-to-find language selector. Find these and all of the Red Cross apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to redcross.org/apps.