MIAMI, FLA. (JUNE 3, 2022) — Potential Tropical Cyclone One is making its way over the Southeastern Gulf of Mexico with heavy rainfall affecting portions of Central and South Florida. Tropical storm watches are out for Central and South Florida and The Keys, which could get as much as 12 inches of rain, leading to possible flash flooding. The greatest risk for flooding will be inland. Should the system gain tropical storm strength, it will be named Tropical Storm Alex. The American Red Cross is getting ready to respond if necessary and urges communities to make their storm preparations now.
HOW TO GET READY Follow these steps to help make sure your family is ready to either evacuate or hunker down if a storm threatens your community.
- First, create an evacuation plan. Plan what to do in case you are separated from your family during an emergency or if you need to evacuate.
- Build an emergency kit with a gallon of water per person, per day, non-perishable food, a flashlight, battery-powered radio, first aid kit, medications, supplies for infants or pets, a multi-purpose tool, personal hygiene items, copies of important papers, cell phone chargers, extra cash, blankets, maps of the area and emergency contact information.
- Stay informed. Find out how local officials will contact you during a disaster and how you will get important information, such as evacuation orders.
- Download the free Red Cross Emergency app to have severe weather safety information right at your fingertips. The Emergency app provides real-time weather alerts and tips on how to stay safe during severe weather and countless other emergencies. Search “American Red Cross” in app stores or go to redcross.org/apps.
FLOOD SAFETY
- Turn around, don’t drown! Stay off the roads. If you must drive and you encounter a flooded roadway, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising around you, quickly get out of the car, move to higher ground and stay there. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.
- Tune into your local radio, NOAA radio or news channel for the latest updates.
- If your neighborhood is prone to flooding, prepare to evacuate quickly if necessary. Follow evacuation orders and don’t return until officials say it is safe.
- Stay away from floodwaters. Beware of snakes, insects and other animals that may be in or around floodwaters and your home.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org/southflorida or visit us on Twitter at @SFLRedCross.
