SOUTHFIELD (WWJ) -- The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is asking Michigan residents to prepare now as remnants from Hurricane Beryl head toward the state.
A Flood Watch has been issued from 11 p.m. Tuesday until 8 p.m. Wednesday for a large portion of Southeast Michigan, including Macomb, Oakland, Wayne, Washtenaw, Genesee, Huron, Lapeer, Livingston, Bay, Saginaw, Sanilac, Shiawassee, St. Clair, and Tuscola counties.
The National Weather Service says the rain will start falling Tuesday night in Metro Detroit, and will continue through Wednesday; and we could see several inches of rain before it stops.
Forecasters say excessive runoff could lead to flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations.
With all this in mind, FEMA is urging Michiganders to take some steps ahead of time.
“Stay alert by monitoring the local news and weather reports this week as severe weather moves through the area,” said FEMA Region 5 Regional Administrator Tom Sivak. “Flooding doesn’t just have the potential to cause costly damage, it can also be life threatening. Being prepared can save your life and give you peace of mind.”
FEMA suggests the following:
- Follow the direction of local and state officials and make sure to sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts. If your community has sirens, become familiar with the warning tone.
- Make sure all mobile devices are fully charged in advance of severe weather. Plan for batteries and other alternative power sources to meet your needs in case the power goes out, such as a portable charger or power bank. Have flashlights for every household member.
- Gather supplies in case you must leave immediately or if services are cut off. Keep in mind each person’s specific needs, including medication. Don’t forget the needs of pets.
- Have a communications plan in place. Ensure everyone in your household knows where to go, what to do and how to reconnect after a disaster.
Watch for fallen power lines and trees. Report them immediately.
Do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters. Just six inches of fast-moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
- Once it is safe, check on neighbors and friends to make sure they’re okay.
The Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA), meanwhile, is urging asking Metro Detroit residents in low-lying areas to remove items of value from their basements. They say it's also helpful if residents don't run their washing machines and dishwashers during heavy rain events.
You can find more tips to help you prepare for severe weather at www.ready.gov/severe-weather and download the free FEMA app.
MORE: After making landfall in Texas, remnants of Hurricane Beryl could bring heavy downpours, flooding to Southeast Michigan
Stay tuned to WWJ Newsradio 950 for the latest traffic and weather updates every 10 minutes on the :08s. >>> LISTEN LIVE
Most Popular
Comments / 0