Red Cross: Be Prepared for Spring Storms

DES MOINES, IOWA — With spring's arrival comes an increased likelihood of severe weather across Iowa. The American Red Cross urges residents to take steps now to prepare for thunderstorms, tornadoes, flooding and other severe weather. The Red Cross encourages everyone to download the free Red Cross Emergency app for real‑time alerts, emergency guidance in English and Spanish and information on available disaster shelters and support locations. Staying informed is critical. Individuals and families should use multiple methods to receive weather updates — including options that do not require electricity, in case of a power outage. It's also important to understand the difference between a watch and a warning: WATCH: Be prepared. Severe weather is possible and conditions may worsen. Use this time to review your plan and stay alert for additional updates. WARNING: Take action. Severe weather is occurring, imminent or likely, and poses a threat to life or property. Move to your safe location immediately. Thunderstorms When thunder roars, go indoors. Seek shelter in a sturdy building, moving to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor and staying away from windows and doors. Outdoor shelters like sheds, gazebos, dugouts and bleachers do not provide protection. Never take shelter under a tree. Being in a vehicle is safer than being outside, but if possible, drive to a sturdy building and shelter inside. If driving and unable to reach a safe building, pull over in a location away from trees and power lines. Lightning can still be dangerous indoors. Avoid using devices connected to electrical outlets. Do not run water; lightning can travel through plumbing. Tornadoes Plan ahead by identifying a safe place to shelter and practicing tornado drills with your household. Safe locations include a basement, storm cellar or small interior room on the lowest floor with no windows. Mobile homes and RVs are not safe during tornadoes. If a tornado warning is issued or conditions look threatening, go to your safe place immediately and protect your head and neck. Continue to monitor trusted local weather sources and sign up for free emergency alerts. Remain in your safe place until officials say the warning has ended. Use caution when leaving a damaged building. Do not reenter once you exit, and watch for hazards. Avoid matches or lighters. If you smell gas or see flammable spills, leave right away. If trapped, cover your mouth with a cloth or mask to reduce dust inhalation. Use a text message, whistle or banging to signal for help instead of shouting. Flooding If flooding is expected or occurring, be prepared to evacuate immediately if instructed by local officials. Never walk, swim or drive through floodwaters. Stay off roads when possible. If you encounter a flooded roadway, turn around. Just 6 inches of fast‑moving water can knock you down, and 12 inches can sweep a vehicle away. If floodwaters rise around your car, exit quickly and move to higher ground. Follow evacuation routes; do not take shortcuts. Check on neighbors and loved ones who may need assistance. Use caution during cleanup, which can be physically and emotionally challenging.Wear protective clothing, including long pants, boots, gloves and an N95 respirator. Watch for debris and avoid fallen power lines. Stay out of floodwaters, which may contain sewage, chemicals, sharp objects and other hazards. Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water. Follow local public health guidance on drinking water safety. Dispose of any food that came in contact with water or became warm. Dry out your home and belongings as quickly as possible to reduce mold growth. Ventilate wet areas, and discard materials that cannot be dried or repaired. About the American Red Cross: The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow on social media.