ARKANSAS, USA — As Tropical Storm Beryl makes its way to the Gulf of Mexico and heavy rain chances increase in Arkansas, Angie Springs with the American Red Cross said it's best to start preparing now.
"Now is the time to prepare," Springs said. "Make sure that you have your emergency supplies kit ready to go, whether you need shelter in place in your home, or evacuate your home in the event of an emergency."
Springs said it's important to gather any essential items such as food, medications, formula, and diapers ahead of time.
"Make sure that you're taking the time now to prepare those items, put them in a place together in a tote that you can either use as you're sheltering at home or if you need to evacuate your home," Springs said.
While floods are not projected for Sunday evening, Springs said you never know when disaster could strike.
Logan County Emergency Manager Tobi Miller said most of the danger lies in driving during the night in flooded areas.
"The falling rain could cause you to not see water covering the road, which could cause you to get trapped in your vehicle," Miller said.
"Looking at Arkansas, there is potential for lots of rain to happen, and there's lots of unknowns. How quickly will that rain come down? How much rain will fall? Again, it's the unknown," Springs said. "We should be prepared for any emergency at any point in time."
Springs assures everyone that if an emergency does arise, the Red Cross will be there.
"We're very flexible, as with any disaster, to meet the community's needs where they are at," Springs said. "Rest assured that the Red Cross will be there if there's a need."
Miller said heavy rain can wash out culverts without drivers' knowledge and cause danger for bridges close to the waterline.
In the past, Miller says there have been times when several cars "have been washed downstream because the residents are used to crossing those low-water bridges" that quickly flooded.
During flooding situations, the Sebastian County Emergency Management team recommends:
- Clearing drainage areas
- Following the "turn around, don't drown" method
- Making sure your car maintenance is up to date
- Having patience with emergency crews
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