FEMA urges the public to prepare ahead of Hurricane Lee, and to pay attention to local officials

WASHINGTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency is encouraging residents and visitors in the path of Hurricane Lee to prepare now and follow the instructions of local officials. Anyone in the expected path of the storm should monitor local weather alerts for updates and evacuate immediately if asked to do so.

Residents and visitors in potentially affected areas should now learn their evacuation routes, have a family emergency communications plan, charge their devices and batteries, make sure they receive emergency alerts and check on their neighbors, especially those who are elderly or who may need Additional help. .

The National Hurricane Center has issued hurricane, tropical storm and storm surge watches for several areas in New England. Hurricane conditions and coastal flooding are possible in parts of eastern Maine, and severe, life-threatening flooding is possible in parts of southeastern Massachusetts, including Cape Cod and Nantucket.

Now is the time to prepare:

• Get emergency alerts: Be sure to sign up to receive weather alerts for your community and stay up to date on the latest weather news from the National Weather Service.
• Gather supplies: Get enough supplies for your family. Includes medications, disinfectant supplies, and pet supplies. After a hurricane, you may not be able to access these supplies for days or weeks.
• Do not drive through flood water: Nearly half of deaths from flash floods occur in vehicles. While you’re in your car, look for flooding in low-lying areas at bridges and on highway ramps. 6 inches of water can cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
• Evacuation: If you are in potentially affected areas, you should be aware of evacuation routes, have a family emergency communications plan, keep a battery-operated radio handy and have plans for your family members and pets. If you are a person with a disability, you may need to take additional steps to plan for both your needs and the needs of your service animal.
• Flood insurance: Residents should review the National Flood Insurance Program policy. It can cover and compensate for certain actions residents take to reduce damage to their homes and property before a flood occurs.

FEMA encourages everyone to visit www.Ready.gov or www.Listo.gov to learn more about how to prepare and how to protect yourself and your loved ones during an emergency. Make sure your family, friends, and neighbors understand the potential impacts Hurricane Lee may bring to your area.