Hurricane Harvey Tracking Apps and Safety Tips

For those in Texas and Louisiana Hurricane Harvey is on its way or fast approaching and moving quickly. In a land where we have media in the palm of our hands and rely on smartphones getting an app to track the hurricane is a good idea. There are two free apps that I suggest checking out, iHurricane and NOAA Weather Tracker apps. Below are screen shots of each app:

NOAA Weather Radar App

iHurricane Hurricane Tracker App

Make sure you charge your phones and portable chargers in case of electrical outage before the storm hits.

Since not 100% of the United States own smartphones your best bet is to watch your local news channels. Austin’s KVUE channel has a Hurricane Tracker that is not only for Austin but for the entire states effected by the storm. KVUE’s Hurricane Tracker can be found here: http://www.kvue.com/weather/hurricane-central

CNN also has live tracking of Hurricane Harvey on TV and Online. Click here to see CNN Hurricane Harvey live.

Below are some safety tips provided by Hurricaneville to guide you through Hurricane Harvey:

Hurricane Preparation:

  • Enter the season prepared.
  • Know all evacuation routes if you live close to the coast.
  • Make sure your home meets building codes for withstanding hurricanes, and they have storm shutters.
  • Have proper tools, supplies, and a first aid kit.
  • Have plenty of batteries and flashlights
  • Always have plenty of non-perishable foods on hand.

During Watch and Warning Issued:

  • Leave low lying areas.
  • Protect windows with plywood boards, or storm shutters.
  • Secure outside objects.
  • Make sure you have plenty of fuel and water.
  • Have several days supply of food and water for each family member.
  • If called to evacuate, do so immediately.

Before the Storm:

  • Be ready to put your plan and preparation into action.
  • Pay attention to local weather reports on radio, television, or the internet.
  • Have house boarded up, or have storm shutters in place.
  • Have plenty of food and water.
  • Make sure all your tools, supplies, and first aid kit available for use.
  • Have a secure room available.

During the Storm:

  • Stay in Secure Room.
  • Stay away from windows.
  • Do not use the phone, or candles.
  • Monitor Weather and Civil Service Bulletins on either regular or NOAA radio.
  • Have supplies on hand.
  • Remain indoors when the eye moves over your area because the storm will resume shortly.

After the Storm:

  • Make sure that all is definitely clear outside, and the storm has completely passed before going out.
  • Report downed power lines, and stay away from them.
  • Use stored water and food.
  • Be patient. Things will take a while before they get back to normal.

Below is a unique chart showing past and present Hurricane facts for those who are experiencing their first Hurricane. It’s interesting to see the impact of Hurricanes.

Stay safe for all those that in are in the Hurricane Harvey path!

###

Sources: http://www.hurricaneville.com/safety.html, http://www.kvue.com/weather/hurricane-central, http://www.cnn.com/2017/08/25/us/hurricane-harvey-latest/index.html