The City of Austin encourages you to prepare for severe weather. Don’t wait for the extreme weather, get ready now!
Springtime in Central Texas also brings severe weather such as thunderstorms, risk of tornados, straight-line winds, hail, and flash floods, which can occur unexpectedly throughout the severe weather season. Prepare now by monitoring weather conditions, knowing safe places to shelter, and have a way to receive watches and warnings.
Here are some essential emergency preparedness steps and tips for severe weather:
- Make a plan: Create an emergency plan with your family that includes designated meeting spots and emergency contacts. Make sure everyone knows what to do and practice your plan.
- Build an emergency kit: Prepare an emergency kit with essentials such as non-perishable food, water, a flashlight, first-aid supplies, and any necessary medications. Do not forget to include supplies for pets.
- Know Your Neighbors: By knowing your neighbors and building a strong network, you can increase your community's readiness level in an emergency.
- Stay informed: Keep your cell phone charged or a battery-powered radio to monitor local weather conditions. Sign up for emergency notifications from WarnCentralTexas.org to receive important information during emergencies.
- Protect your property: Secure loose items such as outdoor furniture and garden tools that could become dangerous projectiles during high winds. Keep trees trimmed to prevent damage from falling branches.
- Seek shelter: If severe weather is approaching, seek shelter in a safe location such as an interior room on the lowest level of your home.
- Turn off utilities: Know how to turn off gas, water, and electricity in case of an emergency.
- Storm recovery: Safely check your property and/or automobile for any damage. If you see any damage, take photos for insurance purposes. Be aware of potential scams looking to take advantage of damage from the storm. Work with your insurance representative to find reputable businesses for any needed repairs.