The American Red Cross Mississippi Region reported a count of 329 people in its evacuation centers at midnight, September 5th, during Tropical Storm Gordon and all Red Cross evacuation centers closed at noon yesterday. In response to Gordon, Red Cross is supporting six other shelter locations.
Red Cross evacuation centers/shelters provide a safe place to stay for those who have been ordered to evacuate their homes prior to a storm. They typically are only meant to house people for 12-72 hours until the storm moves through.
Planning is underway to meet potential disaster assessment, distribution of emergency supplies and community feeding needs. The Red Cross continues to work with government and non-government partners for coordination and support.
The storm still has the potential to produce heavy rain, high winds and flash flooding in parts of Mississippi so people should remain cautious and informed. Even if it has passed your area, it is still important to keep these tips in mind for future references.
WHAT PEOPLE SHOULD DO:
- Build an emergency kit with a gallon of water per person, per day, non-perishable food, a flashlight, battery-powered radio, first aid kit, medications, supplies for an infant if applicable, a multi-purpose tool, personal hygiene items, copies of important papers, cell phone chargers, extra cash, blankets, maps of the area and emergency contact information. Many of these items are available through the Red Cross Store at redcrossstore.org.
- Talk with household members and create an evacuation plan. Practicing the plan minimizes confusion and fear during the event.
- Be informed. Learn about the community’s hurricane response plan. Plan routes to local shelters, register family members with special medical needs as required and make plans for pets. Take a First Aid and CPR/AED course (redcross.org/takeaclass) so you know what to do in case emergency help is delayed.
