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Hurricane Harvey: NOAA Public Advisories and CDC Hurricane links, pages, - August 2017

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  • #16
    Since so many major media are covering this historic event we have not been posting a lot of news stories. We are posting links to obtain help. It has been hard to even comment because the situation has been changing so quickly. At one point it was advisable to evacuate and then later in the same afternoon it was better to shelter in place.

    At this point it seems that this situation will probably equal the devastation of Katrina. I have lived through hurricanes but not massive flooding. In general, homes and buildings that have been flooded are not habitable. In a few days the rotting houses will become a hazard to everyone's health. So even if you are comfortable on your 2nd floor now, you will need to find a sanitary place to live until your home is repaired. Please view the links above that Pathfinder and I have posted.

    We wish everyone affected by Harvey and the flooding all the very best and please be safe. It will be a long recovery.

    Comment


    • #17
      From: "Media@cdc.gov (CDC)"
      To: MMWR-MEDIA@LISTSERV.CDC.GOV
      Subject: CDC Media Advisory: Stay Safe after Hurricanes, Flooding
      Date: Aug 29, 2017 9:52 AM

      Media Advisory


      For Immediate Release
      Tuesday, August 29, 2017

      Contact: CDC Media Relations
      404-639-3286

      Stay Safe after Hurricanes, Flooding

      Hurricanes can cause dangerous and destructive high winds, flooding, heavy rain, and storm surges. Keep your family safe aftera hurricane has made landfall. There may be a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, downed power lines, and mold, among others. For tips on how to be safe after a hurricane: https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/hurricanes/after.html . Below are a few key recommendations:

      ? Don’t go to the attic of your home. If the highest floor of your home becomes dangerous, get on the roof. Call 911 for help and stay on the line until the call is answered.
      ? Avoid driving through flooded areas, especially when the water is fast moving.
      o As little as six inches of water can cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
      ? Avoid Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning after a disaster. Only use a portable generator outdoors in a dry area at least 20 feet away from doors, windows and vents that can allow CO to come indoors.
      ? Avoid injuries when you return to your home after the storm.
      ? Protect yourself from mosquito bites and reduce the number of mosquitoes in your area.
      ? Be prepared to cope with feelings of fear, grief and depression after a traumatic event.
      • The Disaster Distress Helpline ( www.disasterdistress.samhsa.gov ) provides 24/7, year-round crisis counseling and support. Call 1-800-985-5990 (TTY for deaf/hearing impaired: 1-800-846-8517) or text TalkWithUs to 66746.

      Be safe if it floods

      ? Follow local flood watches, warnings and instructions.
      o Get to higher ground. Get out of areas subject to flooding. This includes dips, low spots, canyons, or washes.
      o Return to your flooded home only after local authorities have told you it is safe to do so.
      • If evacuation appears necessary, turn off all utilities at the main power switch and close the main gas valve.
      • Have your immunization records handy or be aware of your last tetanus shot, in case you receive a puncture wound or a wound becomes infected during or after the flood.
      ? Listen for water advisory from local authorities to find out if your water is safe for drinking and bathing.
      ? Fill bathtubs, sinks and plastic soda bottles with clean water. Sanitize the sinks and tubs first by using bleach. Rinse and fill with clean water.
      ? Throw away any food and bottled water that may have come in contact with flood or storm water. Learn how to save undamaged food packages exposed to flood water.
      ? Use bleach to clean mold off of hard things like floors, stoves, sinks, countertops, plates, and tools.
      o Dilute bleach to the proper concentration
      ? Throw out items that cannot be washed and cleaned with bleach, such as mattresses, pillows, carpeting, carpet padding, and stuffed toys.
      ? Remove and throw out drywall and insulation contaminated with sewage or flood waters.
      • Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces, such as concrete, wood, and metal furniture, countertops, and appliances, with hot water and laundry or dish detergent.

      Keep food safe
      • To keep your food at safe temperatures the longest, avoid opening your refrigerator and freezer. Your refrigerator will keep food cold for about four hours if the doors stay closed, and a full freezer will maintain its temperature for approximately 48 hours. A half-full freezer only maintains its temperature for about 24 hours.
      • Place appliance thermometers in your refrigerator and freezer so you will know if food is at a safe temperature. Set your freezer at or below 0?F, and your refrigerator at or below 40?F.
      • If food in your freezer has ice crystals or is below 40?F, the food may be safely refrozen.
      • When it comes to the safety of your food, when in doubt, throw it out.
      • Learn more at www.foodsafety.gov .

      Keep pets safe
      • Contact your local emergency management office and ask if they have shelter for owners and pets in an evacuation.
      • Disasters are stressful for humans and pets alike. Practice safe handling; your pet may behave differently during a stressful situation.
      • Exposure to weather, stagnant water, wildlife or unfamiliar animals, and overcrowding can put your pet at risk for getting sick. Some of these illnesses can be spread to people .
      • If you and your pet are separated, get your family is in a safe location before you begin your search.
      • Learn more: https://www.cdc.gov/features/petsand...ers/index.html

      Public Service Announcements

      CDC has hurricane public service announcements (PSAs), including some in Spanish and American Sign Language:
      ? Cleanup
      ? Food and Water Safety
      ? Injury and Disease Safety
      ? Medication Safety
      ? Stay Safe at Home After a Tropical Storm or Hurricane
      ? Stay Safe Outside After a Tropical Storm or Hurricane

      Media Toolkits

      ###
      U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

      CDC works 24/7 protecting America’s health, safety, and security. Whether diseases start at home or abroad, are curable or preventable, chronic or acute, or from human activity or deliberate attack, CDC responds to America’s most pressing health threats. CDC is headquartered in Atlanta and has experts located throughout the United States and the world.

      Comment


      • #18
        Harvey floodwaters overflow Houston reservoir, separate levee breach reported

        By Travis FedschunPublished August 29, 2017 Fox News

        ...
        Floodwaters in the the Addicks Reservoir, located about 19 miles west of downtown, went over the top of the 108-foot spillway for the first time in history, threatening immediate surrounding subdivisions.

        ...
        "This is not going to happen fast, this is a slow rise," Lindner told reporters, adding the flow of water going over the reservoir into neighborhoods will increase as the levels in the reservoir behind continue to rise.


        Hours after the Addicks Reservoir was overtopped, officials in Brazoria County, located south of Houston, warned that a levee at Columbia Lakes had been breached by floodwaters and urged any residents who had not already evacuated the area to leave immediately, writing "GET OUT NOW!!"

        ...
        http://www.foxnews.com/us/2017/08/29...territory.html
        "Safety and security don't just happen, they are the result of collective consensus and public investment. We owe our children, the most vulnerable citizens in our society, a life free of violence and fear."
        -Nelson Mandela

        Comment


        • #19
          How to Help Disaster Surivivors in Texas

          Release Date:
          August 29, 2017


          For Immediate Release
          FEMA News Desk
          Phone: 202-646-3272

          WASHINGTON – The compassion and generosity of the American people is never more evident than during and after a disaster. It is individuals, non-profits, faith- and community-based organizations, private sector partners, and governmental agencies working together that will most effectively and efficiently help survivors cope with the impacts of Tropical Storm Harvey.
          Please follow a few important guidelines below to ensure your support can be the most helpful for Tropical Storm Harvey disaster survivors.

          To Donate to Relief Efforts

          The most effective way to support disaster survivors in their recovery is to donate money and time to trusted, reputable, voluntary or charitable organizations.

          Cash donations offer voluntary agencies and faith-based organizations the most flexibility to address urgently developing needs. With cash in hand, these organizations can obtain needed resources nearer to the disaster location. This inflow of cash also pumps money back into the local economy and helps local businesses recover faster.

          Please do not donate unsolicited goods such as used clothing, miscellaneous household items, medicine, or perishable foodstuffs at this time. When used personal items are donated, the helping agencies must redirect their staff away from providing direct services to survivors in order to sort, package, transport, warehouse, and distribute items that may not meet the needs of disaster survivors.

          Donate through a trusted organization. At the national level, many voluntary-, faith- and community-based organizations are active in disasters, and are trusted ways to donate to disaster survivors. Individuals, corporations, and volunteers, can learn more about how to help on the National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (NVOAD) website.

          In addition to the national members, The Texas Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (Texas VOAD) has a list of vetted disaster relief organizations providing services to survivors. Texas VOAD represents more than three dozen faith-based, community, nonprofit and non-governmental organizations.

          To Personally Volunteer in the Disaster Areas

          The State of Texas is asking volunteers to not self-deploy, as unexpectedly showing up to any of the communities that have been impacted by Hurricane Harvey will create an additional burden for first responders.

          The National VOAD has also noted the situation may not be conducive to volunteers entering the impacted zone and individuals may find themselves turned away by law enforcement.

          To ensure volunteer safety, as well as the safety of disaster survivors, volunteers should only go into affected areas with a specific volunteer assignment, proper safety gear, and valid identification.

          At this time, potential volunteers are asked to register with a voluntary or charitable organization of their choice, many of which are already in Texas and supporting survivors on the ground.

          The National and Texas VOAD websites are offering links to those who wish to register to volunteer with community- and faith-based organizations working in the field.

          Most importantly, please be patient. Although the need is great, and desire to help strong, it is important to avoid donating material goods or self-deploying to help until communities are safe and public officials and disaster relief organizations have had an opportunity to assess the damage and identify what the specific unmet needs are.

          Volunteer generosity helps impacted communities heal from the tragic consequences of disasters, but recovery lasts much longer than today. There will be volunteer needs for many months, and years, after the disaster, so sign up now.

          Tropical Storm Harvey is still dangerous, with the potential to impact additional areas of Texas and Louisiana. As the situation changes, needs may also change in these areas. Continue monitoring traditional and social media channels to learn more.


          "Safety and security don't just happen, they are the result of collective consensus and public investment. We owe our children, the most vulnerable citizens in our society, a life free of violence and fear."
          -Nelson Mandela

          Comment


          • #20
            Please remember that every single thing that was touched by flood waters is filthy and a potential health risk.

            Floods can have devastating effects on your home and your family. Learn how to prepare for a flood, stay safe during a flood, and protect your health when you return home after a flood. Provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).


            Comment


            • #21
              Texas Urges Health Precautions for Residents Affected by Hurricane Harvey

              News Release
              August 30, 2017


              The Texas Department of State Health Services is issuing the following health precautions for people experiencing flooding and power outages in Southeast Texas and beginning recovery from Hurricane Harvey along the middle Texas coast.
              People should follow all local drinking water safety notices and throw out food that may have spoiled or been contaminated. Because of the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, gasoline-powered generators should not be used indoors.
              Residents who evacuated affected areas are urged to wait for official word from state or local officials before returning home.
              Health officials offer the following advice:
              Drinking Water
              • People under boil water alerts and those with private wells that may have been contaminated by floodwater should use only bottled, boiled or treated water until water has been tested and found safe.
              • When boiling water for drinking, cooking and washing, bring it to a rolling boil for at least one minute and then let it cool. If boiling isn?t possible, water can be disinfected with regular, unscented household bleach using one-eighth teaspoon, about eight drops, per gallon of water. Add the bleach, stir well and let stand for 30 minutes.
              Food
              • Do not eat food that has been in contact with flood water.
              • If electricity has been off, refrigerated food may have spoiled. Discard any food that has been at room temperature for more than two hours or that has an unusual odor or color.
              • Babies on formula should be given ready-to-feed formula or powdered formula prepared with bottled water.
              • Wash hands with soap and disinfected water before eating or handling food, after clean-up work and after handling flood water-contaminated items.
              Environmental Hazards
              • No one should re-enter a building while flooded unless the main electrical switch has been turned off.
              • Snakes and other wild animals may seek shelter in homes, vehicles and trees. They are often injured in heavy rains and winds. Do not handle any wildlife. Seek immediate treatment if bitten or injured by an animal. Beware of displaced pets.
              • Return home in daylight for best visibility to be aware of any unsafe power sources. Do not use lanterns or torches until after the premises are safe from gas leaks.
              • Protect yourself from mosquito bites with an EPA-registered insect repellent. Standing water after floods can be a breeding place for mosquitoes. Drain all the standing water you can and dump out containers like toys, flower pots and saucers, old tires, cans and storm debris.
              • Always wear shoes in post-flood areas to reduce the chances of punctures or cuts from nails and other sharp objects.
              Medical
              • People with puncture wounds or cuts exposed to flood water could be at risk of contracting tetanus if they haven?t had a tetanus vaccination within the last 10 years.
              • People up-to-date on vaccinations do not need any additional vaccines.
              General
              • Never run gas-powered electrical generators or use gas or charcoal grills indoors. Carbon monoxide can build up and be fatal to people indoors.
              • Never mix bleach with products that contain ammonia to prevent the creation of toxic fumes.
              • Don?t let children play in or near flood water or storm drains.
              • Disinfect all furniture, woodwork, household surfaces and toys in homes that have flooded. Use a solution of one cup bleach to five gallons of water.
              • Wash hands frequently during cleanup to help avoid contaminating areas that have already been cleaned.
              • To prevent allergic reactions and other health problems caused by mold, replace flood-damaged wallboard starting at least 12 inches above the waterline.
              • Try to rest and conserve energy and avoid heat stress. People with heart conditions and other illnesses should avoid strenuous exertion.

              -30-
              (News Media Contact: Chris Van Deusen, DSHS Director of Media Relations, 512-776-7119)

              DSHS Press Office on Twitter








              Last updatedAugust 30, 2017



              News Release August 30, 2017The Texas Department of State Health Services is issuing the following health precautions for people experiencing flooding and power outages in Southeast Texas and beginning recovery from Hurricane Harvey along the middle Texas coast.People should follow all local drinking water safety notices and throw out food that may have spoiled or been contaminated. Because of the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, gasoline-powered generators should not be used indoors.


              "Safety and security don't just happen, they are the result of collective consensus and public investment. We owe our children, the most vulnerable citizens in our society, a life free of violence and fear."
              -Nelson Mandela

              Comment


              • #22
                Hurricane Harvey ? August 31, 2017

                DSHS is responding to flooding and other effects of Hurricane Harvey in Texas. DSHS coordinates public health and medical services during disasters in the state, including the evacuation of health care facilities, providing shelters for people with special medical needs, and supporting the behavioral health of responders.
                As of Thursday morning, 165 missions have been completed transporting 1,086 patients from health care facilities affected by Harvey. Texas Mobile Medical Units have seen 239 patients and transferred 53 to health care facilities. Medical shelters for people who need specialized medical care are open in Houston, San Antonio and Austin. Some hospitals that had closed have re-opened for emergency or full services, but there are hospitals in the affected area that remain closed. People who have a medical emergency should call 9-1-1.
                Floodwater can create significant hazards, and everyone should remember basic precautions:
                • Pay attention to local media for the latest from leaders on local conditions.
                • Listen for announcements about the safety of public drinking water and follow ?boil water? alerts for your area.
                • Avoid floodwater when possible. It may contain bacteria, hazardous chemicals and dangerous debris.
                • Never run electrical generators inside your home, because carbon monoxide can build up and kill.
                More information on flood and recovery precautions is available on the DSHS News Releases page and at TexasPrepares.org.
                Additional information:

                • Dial 2-1-1 for information on services available in your area.
                • If you lost WIC food or formula, lost a WIC card, or need to find an open WIC clinic, call 800-942-3678 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
                • If you need breastfeeding help, call 855-550-6667. Lactation consultants answer this line 24 hours a day.
                • People who need to find an operating dialysis clinic should contact the End Stage Renal Disease Network of Texas at 866-407-3773.
                • Providers should follow guidance regarding submission of newborn screening specimens. Information is regularly updated on the Laboratory Services page.
                • The Texas HIV Medication Program page is regularly updated with information about replacing and delivery of medications.
                • Vaccines:
                  • People with puncture wounds or cuts exposed to flood water could be at risk of contracting tetanus if they haven?t had a tetanus vaccination within the last 10 years. People up-to-date on vaccinations do not need any additional vaccines.
                  • Students displaced by Harvey may be enrolled in school provisionally for 30 days without proof of immunization. Schools with electronic access to ImmTrac2, the state immunization registry, will be able to verify immunization status for many students.
                • Medical professionals who want to volunteer can register with the Texas Disaster Volunteer Registry and contact private organizations like the American Red Cross. Please don?t respond on your own.
                • Governor Greg Abbott has approved a waiver allowing Texas hospitals to exceed their licensed bed capacity to provide care for evacuees.
                • Follow DSHS on Twitter and Facebook for more safety information.
                http://www.dshs.texas.gov/news/updates.shtm
                "Safety and security don't just happen, they are the result of collective consensus and public investment. We owe our children, the most vulnerable citizens in our society, a life free of violence and fear."
                -Nelson Mandela

                Comment


                • #23
                  Company press release:

                  Explosions and Smoke Reported at Arkema Inc. Crosby Plant

                  08/31/2017 - Short news
                  PRODUCTS

                  At approximately 2 a.m. CDT, we were notified by the Harris County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) of two explosions and black smoke coming from the Arkema Inc. plant in Crosby, Texas. Local officials had previously established an evacuation zone in an area 1.5 miles from our plant, based on their assessment of the situation.

                  We continue to work closely with federal, state and local authorities to manage the situation.

                  As we communicated in recent days, our site followed its hurricane preparation plan in advance of the recent hurricane and we had redundant contingency plans in place. However, unprecedented flooding overwhelmed our primary power and two sources of emergency backup power. As a result, we lost critical refrigeration of the products on site. Some of our organic peroxides products burn if not stored at low temperature.

                  We have been working closely with public officials to manage the implications of this situation, and have communicated with the public the potential for product to explode and cause an intense fire. Organic peroxides are extremely flammable and, as agreed with public officials, the best course of action is to let the fire burn itself out.

                  We want local residents to be aware that product is stored in multiple locations on the site, and a threat of additional explosion remains. Please do not return to the area within the evacuation zone until local emergency response authorities announce it is safe to do so.

                  Organic peroxides are a family of compounds that are used in a wide range of applications, such as making pharmaceuticals and construction materials.

                  Arkema is a global leader in Specialty Materials serving major societal and ecological challenges
                  "Safety and security don't just happen, they are the result of collective consensus and public investment. We owe our children, the most vulnerable citizens in our society, a life free of violence and fear."
                  -Nelson Mandela

                  Comment

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