Stay informed by listening to local officials: People in Florida should follow the forecast carefully, and instructions of state and local officials, by monitoring local radio or television stations for updated emergency information. Conditions in areas affected by Hurricane Helene may still be very dangerous.
Your neighbors are your lifeline: Check on your neighbors, especially older adults or those who may need additional assistance, to make sure they have what they need to ride out the storm. Have a plan to remain in contact during and after the storm.
Take care of your mental health: Many people in this storm’s path are still recovering from Hurricane Helene and/or Debby and may feel stress or worry. If you or someone you know wants help dealing with their feelings, we encourage you reach out for help. You can call the toll-free, multilingual Disaster Distress Helpline for confidential counseling, referrals and other support, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Call or text 1-800-985-5990. Spanish speakers should press “2”. Deaf and Hard of Hearing ASL callers can connect directly to an agent in American Sign Language, through ASL Now or by calling 1-800-985-5990 from your videophone.
Tips to Stay Safe Before, During and After a Tropical Storm:
Keep Gas Tanks Half-Full: Florida residents and visitors are advised to keep their gas tanks at least half full to ensure they have enough full to evacuate without encountering long lines or gas shortages. Electric vehicle owners should maintain their battery between 50-80% capacity.
Turn Around. Don’t Drown™: Driving through a flooded area can be extremely hazardous. Almost half of all flash flood deaths happen in vehicles. When in your car, look out for flooding in low-lying areas at bridges and at highway dips. As little as 6 inches of water may cause you to lose control of your vehicle or fall if you are walking through it. Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles including sport utility vehicles (SUVs) and pick-ups.
Stay out of floodwater: Walking, swimming, or driving through flood waters is extremely dangerous. Standing water may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines or contain hazards such as wild or stray animals, human and livestock waste and chemicals that can lead to illness.
Other Important Tips:
§ Tropical storms can affect power systems, causing power outages. If the power goes out, use only flashlights or battery-powered lanterns for emergency lighting. Never use candles during a blackout or power outage due to the extreme risk of fire.
§ Remember, gas pumps, automated teller machines (ATMs), medical equipment, computers, cell phone chargers, grocery store checkout counters, escalators and elevators may not work during a power outage.
§ When using generators, always use them outdoors and at least 20 feet from windows, doors and attached garages. Make sure to keep the generator dry and protected from rain or flooding.
If you have any questions, please contact FEMA Office of External Affairs:
§ Congressional Affairs at (202) 646-4500 or at FEMA-Congressional-Affairs@fema.dhs.gov
§ Intergovernmental Affairs at (202) 646-3444 or at FEMA-IGA@fema.dhs.gov
§ Tribal Affairs at (202) 646-3444 or at FEMA-Tribal@fema.dhs.gov
§ Private Sector Engagement at (202) 646-3444 or at FEMA-Private-Sector@fema.dhs.gov