CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA – Even with Hurricane Joaquin predicted to track out to sea before it reaches the area, heavy rain from the storm is expected well into the weekend. With the ground already saturated from the storms experienced earlier this week, a chance of flooding does exist.
The American Red Cross urges people to pay close attention to the weather over the next several days and watch for any areas that may experience flooding due to rising creeks, streams and rivers.
“People living in communities prone to flooding should pay particular attention to area conditions until the storm has passed,” noted Red Cross Central Pennsylvania Regional Chief Executive Officer Ellen Kyzer.
“The Red Cross stands ready to assist individuals who might be impacted by rising waters. Should the need arise, we will open shelters to accommodate anyone displaced by the storm and its aftermath.”
If shelters are needed, their locations will be sent to the media and will also be posted to the Red Cross Twitter (RedCross_CentPA) and Facebook (RedCrossCentralPA) pages. The Red Cross urges people to follow their Twitter or like their Facebook for the most updated storm-related information.
Residents are also urged to prepare for the storm and any potential flooding. Red Cross officials say to be sure to have enough supplies to last a few days (a gallon of water for each person/day, nonperishable food, a flashlight, batteries, first aid kit, and a supply of any needed medications) and pay close attention to any weather-related watches and warnings.
To help prepare, the Red Cross offers an Emergency App that combines more than 35 emergency alerts and important information to help people prepare for and react to most disaster situations, including floods and hurricanes. You can download the app from your smart device app store, or by visiting redcross.org/mobile-apps/emergency-app.
Should water begin to rise in your area, the Red Cross reminds you to:
- Head for higher ground and stay there until the water recedes.
- Not attempt to go through water that is higher than your ankles.
- Not attempt to drive over flooded roads. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.
Kyzer added, “We currently have staff and volunteers prepared to mobilize in all of our areas. We will be watching the storm as it progresses and are ready to respond.”
All American Red Cross disaster assistance is provided free of charge and is made possible by the voluntary donations of time and money from caring individuals and, in part, by contributions given through the United Way.
You can help people affected by disasters such as floods, fires, tornadoes and hurricanes by making a donation to support American Red Cross Disaster Relief. Visit www.redcross.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to learn more. Contributions may be sent to The American Red Cross, 1804 N. Sixth St., Harrisburg, PA 17102 or any of the other area offices.
