Wet Weather Survival Tips

It's spring in East Texas, and that means we're likely due for a lot more inclement weather similar to the harrowing rain, thunder, lightning and tornadoes that covered the area last night. With that in mind, it's always helpful to be reminded of just what to do when confronted with the threat of flooding or a tornado.

IN CASE OF FLOODING:

This PSA from the U.S. National Weather Service says it all. No matter how confident you are in thinking your car can handle even a mildly flooded area, DON'T TRY IT!

Additionally, if the area around your house begins to flood, take shelter as high up as possible, be it the top floor of your home or perhaps even the roof should the water rise that high. Always keep a battery-powered weather radio on hand. And if you do come into contact with flood waters, make sure to thoroughly wash and disinfect your hands afterward.

IN CASE OF A TORNADO:

- Tornadoes strike rapidly and often with little warning. However, some of the warning signs of an incoming tornado include the following: a dark or green colored sky, a large/dark low-lying cloud, large hail, a roaring sound that is often mistaken for an incoming train.

- In the event of a tornado, take shelter immediately. If you're at home, get inside a bathtub or closet and if possible cover yourself with some kind of insulation such as a mattress or even a table. If at school or a workplace, hide under a desk. Regardless of where you are, avoid windows at all costs. An exploding window can easily injure or kill.

- If you're in your car, do not attempt to outrun the tornado. Do not attempt to hide under your car. Exit your car and take shelter under a bridge or overpass if possible, or lay flat in a ditch.

IN CASE OF HEAVY RAIN:

- Check your roof. Don't wait until there's a waterfall splashing down your house's staircase to start doing something about your roof. Not everyone is a roofing expert, but it can often be easy to spot problem areas on your roof simply by walking around your home's exterior and observing. Look for missing tiles, aged or sagging areas, cracks in the chimney or any spots that look foreboding.

- Clear your gutters. Gutters are essential to keeping water off your roof and away from collecting around the foundation and possibly creeping inside the house. Cleaning and clearing gutters can be a pain, but it's better than having to potentially deal with water flowing under your front door.

- Clear your yard. Even minor flooding can cause debris to be carried away, so be sure to clear your yard in advance of anything could be potentially block a culvert or drainage ditch.