Know your weather prep

With the knowledge that we are now in peak hurricane season, Land Commissioner George P. Bush has released a statement advising all Texans to be aware of severe weather warnings and prepare for them accordingly. The statement warns that the commission has been watching “several potential weather formations threatening the U.S., including a tropical disturbance over the Gulf of Mexico with a 70 percent chance of cyclone formation in the next 48 hours. The National Hurricane Center predicts heavy rainfall and gusty winds across Texas on Thursday and Friday.” Since we all carry a high-powered computer in our pocket, signing up for the local emergency warning system is a good place to start. In addition, the national Emergency Alert System and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts. Preparation basics include stockpiling key supplies (nonperishable food for you and your pets, water, first aid items and prescriptions, flashlights and batteries are a good start), gathering your important documents in one place, keeping your electronics charged (and maybe a couple of backup batteries), devising an evacuation plan, and getting your property ready by cleaning gutters and drains and even shuttering your home if necessary/possible. It’s important to note that most home insurance policies do not cover flood damage, so a separate flood insurance policy is advised.