With the probability of extensive rain and high winds, especially in coastal areas of the state as a result of tropical storms, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service experts are asking Texans to take measures to prepare their houses, farms and ranches for flooding.
“People in both urban and rural areas should take steps to prepare for what may come from these storm systems to minimize damage and reduce the impact of their aftermath,” said Dr. Monty Dozier, AgriLife Extension special assistant for Rebuild Texas.
Dozier said the Texas Extension Disaster Education Network, or Texas EDEN, and the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Bookstore have a variety of information available on flood preparation and recovery.
“Coastal residents and those in adjacent inland communities should be attentive to radio, TV or NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts and follow directions from local officials regarding evacuation,” he said.
Dozier said in the likely event of high winds, property owners should remove damaged or dead limbs from trees, secure trash cans and take any lawn furniture, plant containers, toys or other items that could become projectiles and put them inside the garage or house prior to the storm.
“We are also working with emergency personnel and elected officials to discuss possible activation of companion animal and livestock shelters in the event domesticated animals or livestock should become displaced as a result of extensive flooding,” he said.
Joyce Cavanagh, AgriLife Extension family and community health specialist, College Station, said those in areas with a high probability of flooding should prepare an emergency kit for the home, office and each vehicle in the event evacuation is necessary.
AgriLife Extension specialist David Smith, a biological and agricultural engineer in College Station, also noted it is important for farmers and ranchers to prepare livestock for a flood.
“Farmers and ranchers should assess the risk of flooding in their area and devise an emergency plan to protect their livestock,” Smith said.
For more information on preparing livestock, go here.
“While we can’t keep natural disasters from occurring, there’s still a lot we can do to prepare for them and keep ourselves, our families and our property safe when they occur — and in their aftermath,” Dozier said.