The Emergency Services District #2 hosted a Hurricane Preparedness Meeting last Thursday. Officials from the National Weather Service and Galveston County Office of Emergency Management presented information to help residents prepare for the season. National Weather Service meteorologist Dan Riley talked about the greatest danger of a hurricane – the storm surge. The Saffir Simpson Wind Scale is inadequate in its ability to fully measure the severity of a storm. Hurricane Ike came ashore as a Category 2 storm, but the storm surge was far more devastating than the winds measured.
Laura Norman with Galveston County Office of Emergency Management stressed that “Preparedness is the Key.” Everyone should: Make a Plan – Prepare a Disaster Supply Kit – Stay Informed. Make a plan with neighbors, family, and friends. Make sure everyone knows where to go, how to get there, and communication throughout. Prepare a disaster supply kit with enough food and water for travel and power outage. Stay informed through local resources. County Officials will let you know when and if an evacuation is necessary. To keep informed of emergencies, you can sign up to receive phone or text messages here: https://gcoem.org/mass-notification-alerts/.
Bolivar residents need to prepare to leave early because evacuation routes may close due to storm surge. The Galveston County Evacuation Plan Map designates “Supported Routes” where fuel, food, water, and tow services are available if needed. Bottom Line: IF YOU ARE TOLD TO EVACUATE – GO!
For more information, download “Hurricane and Severe Weather Guide” on the GCOEM website.
[7-1-2019]
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