Mississippi has sent a helping hand to Hawaii as they prepare for the potentially devastating effects of Hurricane Lane.
Three Mississippi Red Cross volunteers have arrived in Honolulu ahead of the arrival of what is now being called a category 4 storm. The storm is expected to hit and remain over the islands throughout the remainder of the week.
One volunteer from Picayune will support disaster services technology. The others from Hattiesburg and Meridian will work in health services.
Meteorologists have stated that winds could reach up to 130-150 mph with a maximum of 20 inches of rain in certain areas. A state of emergency has been issued across the state ahead of the storm’s arrival.
“Hurricane Lane will likely bring life threatening conditions across Hawaii through Saturday with damaging winds, dangerous surf, coastal storm surge and intense flooding rains.” – NWS
Closer to home, the Mississippi Red Cross reminds people to take simple steps now to care for their families and workplaces in the event there are future warnings of strong storms packing high winds for Mississippi.
- 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.
