New England weather is an unpredictable force. One day you are in mittens, the next shorts! In recent years the weather has changed even more, especially the frequency of severe summer storms. Here are some things to keep in mind this summer.
While sunshine and pleasant warm weather has arrived, don’t take it for granted. Hot humid weather often ushers in severe storms. NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) is predicting an “above normal Atlantic Hurricane Season for 2022.” Severe thunderstorms also have the potential of producing tornadoes. It is imperative to prepare yourself, your family and your home for severe weather.
Know your evacuation route
In the event of a major storm or power outage, Granby will post shelter information on social media and the town website. Media and the reverse 911 system will be utilized to get evacuation and shelter information to residents.
Gather supplies
Gather food, water, and essential supplies. If you, a family member, or pet take medication, ensure that you have enough to last several days. If you own a generator, check the oil, make sure it runs, and make sure you have extra fuel. Generators emit deadly carbon monoxide (CO)— run generators outside, at a safe distance from your home.
Make an emergency plan
Have an emergency plan that is shared with everyone in your home. This can be as simple as identifying a safe area such as an interior room or downstairs bathroom in the event of a high wind event or tornado. If you must evacuate your home, identify a place for the family to gather and DO NOT TOUCH downed power lines or drive over them as you leave.
Think of your neighbors
Check on your network of family and friends, especially the elderly and those with disabilities. Make sure they are prepared and have a support network of people who can help them during a disaster. Plan ahead for transportation that they may need for evacuation.
FEMA mobile app
Download the FEMA mobile app for disaster resources, weather alerts and safety tips. Available in English and Spanish, this app provides a customizable checklist of emergency supplies, maps of open shelters and recovery centers, disaster survival tips and weather alerts from the National Weather Service.
Sign up for CTALERT
Stay informed. The State of Connecticut has an emergency notification system to alert residents anywhere in the state about life threatening conditions. Subscribers get notifications by cell phone, email, text message, or certain hearing-impaired devices—simply provide your information and keep it updated on the CTAlert Website. Sign up for free at portal.ct.gov/ctalert
For more tips on preparing for a disaster, visit Ready.gov