Emergency Preparedness for People with Disabilities

General Weather Discussions and Analysis
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Texaspirate11
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Hello Everyone
Sorry for being absent for a while - but, life got in the way
We have been fortunate so far with our weather (knock wood).
But, now its time to turn an eye to the GOM and begin to think about Hurricane Preparedness 2017.

I know many have said to me "Gee, the big guns say its gonna be a quiet year - below average, and we haven't been
hit since 2008. And isn't it safe under an El Nino?"

Yes, I know. Its hard to rally the troops from doldrums and ennui and parroting whatever someone says.

But, let me remind you: It only takes one. AND that ONE can do mighty harm.
Like Hurricane Andrew in August of 1992. No other hurricane needed to appear that year with that wipeout
-OR-
the 1900 which came under a neutral El Nino.
Get my drift?

FOR THOSE WITH Accessibility and Functional Needs NOW is the time to do SOMETHING

1)If you don't have family/support group to get you out of an evacuation zone OR
YOU DEPEND ON ELECTRICITY TO SURVIVE - REGISTER with 211 (STEARS) or your local OEM and tell them
YOU need a way out.
You must register EVERY YEAR


2) YOU know your disability and needs better than anyone else. Including our wonderful mets.
Its YOUR responsibility to make a plan.

3) Find someone to help you plan. Find the time to have this talk with your family/support group.
24 hours before a storm hits is the wrong time. And this is where we can get into trouble.

The life you save will be your own.


FUN PLUG:
Our Big Hurricane Blow Out at George R Brown this year will be on Saturday, June 3rd from 10-2p.m.
Hall A "Extreme Weather Expo"
This is a FREE EVENT with HOT DOGS! Learn to plan for ALL WEATHER EVENTS.

Stop by my booth in the DEMO area and I'll help you help yourself!Lots of METS with be there and other guest stars....I hope to see YOU on Saturday June 3rd!
Just because you're disabled, you don't have to be a victim
Be Weather Aware & Prepared!
Barbara Jordan Winner in Media
Disability Integration Consultant
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Texaspirate11
Posts: 1278
Joined: Tue Dec 31, 2013 12:24 am
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Saturday, May 20th GALVESTON will hold their Hurricane Fair 10 a.m.
Will I see you there?



Galveston Hurricane Preparedness Fair
McGuire Dent Recreation Center
2222 28th Street
Galveston, TX 77551
Just because you're disabled, you don't have to be a victim
Be Weather Aware & Prepared!
Barbara Jordan Winner in Media
Disability Integration Consultant
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Texaspirate11
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Joined: Tue Dec 31, 2013 12:24 am
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Today's Galveston Fair was really wonderful.
Kudos to our NWS and other partners who came together to make sure this vulnerable island was prepared.

I met SO MANY newcomers to the island who have NEVER experienced a hurricane and most came from the North. Most were retired/elderly who had no family or real support group on the island....

It is imperative if you are a newcomer to:

Familiarize yourself with weather terms
Understand what SURGE is
Make a plan on how you will evacuate and where you will go
Do NOT evacuate from one coastal city to another.
If you cant drive, register with the Galveston One Call Ride
Understand that you need to make copies of all your important papers and send them to someone outside the area
as you take the originals.
Take CASH as the ATM may be down for a while
Make sure your car is full throughout the summer
Get your medical supplies together and properly labeled for each person
Make sure you notify a person outside the area where you be staying.
If you evacuate with a pet, make sure you have Fido's supplies and up to date shot records

It was worrisome that most had no idea what to do or even knew what surge was.
BUT, I was grateful they showed up - and now are better prepared!
Just because you're disabled, you don't have to be a victim
Be Weather Aware & Prepared!
Barbara Jordan Winner in Media
Disability Integration Consultant
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Texaspirate11
Posts: 1278
Joined: Tue Dec 31, 2013 12:24 am
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PLEASE join us at the Extreme Weather Expo at the
GEORGE R BROWN
Saturday June 3rd
Hall A
From 10-3


Tom Tynan, Radio Talkshow Host will broadcast LIVE at this event
If anyone knows how to prepare your home before a storm, he's the man
He's got lots of information & tips for you.

Come out to the DEMO table, where I will be there helping those that need to PLAN
for our upcoming season.


Free Hot Dogs! Cool Swag!
Its a Free Family Event!

For those who are Deaf - Red Cross will hold CPR with interpreters there
I pushed for this for the past couple of years.


Hope to see *YOU* there!
Just because you're disabled, you don't have to be a victim
Be Weather Aware & Prepared!
Barbara Jordan Winner in Media
Disability Integration Consultant
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Texaspirate11
Posts: 1278
Joined: Tue Dec 31, 2013 12:24 am
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HAPPY FATHER DAY!
And look what Mother Nature may bring us!!!

I'm sure by now, you are aware of 93L the large system about to enter the Bay of Campeche this week.
Right now, it has a 90% chance of development and of course, the models are not in a Kumbaya mood
They are everywhere. From Mexico to NE Bama/Florida line. Today some of the models began to shift a bit
West - that would be our area of the GOM.

THIS is when you need to become weather aware. With the models in disarray, and large system
about to hit the hot BOC, you need to stay tuned to whatever weather information you have.
(Like this board!)

Some of the more consistent weather models do bring it west to the Texas Coast
Actually, anywhere from Mx-Tx/LA. This system could bring a lot of rain as it is large and slow.

PLEASE begin to monitor the weather beginning Today (Sunday-Monday-Tuesday) timeframe.
Although it could remain a Tropical Storm like system - they can bring copious amounts of rain.

Does your area flood?
Do you have a way out if flooding does occur?
Do you have supplies/meds to keep you safe until the storm leaves?

Start to think of your preparedness & readiness and monitor 93L

Thanks and be wx aware and prepared.
Just because you're disabled, you don't have to be a victim
Be Weather Aware & Prepared!
Barbara Jordan Winner in Media
Disability Integration Consultant
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Texaspirate11
Posts: 1278
Joined: Tue Dec 31, 2013 12:24 am
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Some VERY wise words from our NWS about the upcoming potential storm in the GOM

If you cant read it here due to size, please go to their home page

http://www.weather.gov/hgx/

Basically, they seem to be as frustrated as we are in trying to figure out where this storm will go.
The models, as stated earlier, are out of sorts and haven't come to their kumbaya moment.

So what can YOU do this week as it gets into the Gulf of Mexico?

Monitor the weather
Go over your plans
Make sure you know your area and if it floods, etc
This has some informative information for you
Just because you're disabled, you don't have to be a victim
Be Weather Aware & Prepared!
Barbara Jordan Winner in Media
Disability Integration Consultant
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Texaspirate11
Posts: 1278
Joined: Tue Dec 31, 2013 12:24 am
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6/19/2017

NHC might be posting watches soon along the Gulf Coast
Please begin to monitor the weather.
Hurricane Hunters are out this afternoon, and hopefully will bring us more news
about this impending storm.

Be weather aware & prepared.
Just because you're disabled, you don't have to be a victim
Be Weather Aware & Prepared!
Barbara Jordan Winner in Media
Disability Integration Consultant
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Texaspirate11
Posts: 1278
Joined: Tue Dec 31, 2013 12:24 am
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The City of Houston Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is monitoring the potential for impacts from a potential Tropical cyclone over the next few days. Tropical Storms can bring heavy rain, flash flooding, strong winds, storm surges, and power outages.

The National Weather Service has issued a Tropical Storm Watch for Harris County and the City of Houston.

This means we may see tropical storm conditions with winds of 39 to 73 mph to arrive in our area within the next 48 hours.


Although the exact track and intensity of this system is uncertain - it is important for Houston residents to pay close attention to changing conditions and begin preparations.


Steps to Take Now
• Have what you need: Ensure your family has at least 3 days worth of food, water and supplies. ◦ This includes enough prescription medication to get you through this period, in case pharmacies and doctors' offices are closed.
◦ If you have seniors, children, pets or other special circumstances, make sure their individual needs are met.
◦ Download a copy of the City's Disaster Preparedness Guide at houstonoem.org for a checklist of things you should have on hand.

• Know your level of risk. Tropical weather systems can bring heavy rain and strong winds. Check to see your area's risk of flooding by visiting the Harris County Flood Education Mapping Tool at harriscountyfemt.org.
• Plan to Communicate: Develop a family communication plan, so that you know who to check in with after a storm. Visit ready.gov for information on how to do this.
• Stay Aware: Monitor current conditions with the National Weather Service at weather.gov/houston, and the National Hurricane Center at hurricanes.gov. ◦ Also, purchase a battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA Weather Radio to stay informed, even when the power goes out.
◦ Sign up for CenterPoint Energy's Power Alert Service, and stay informed about power restoration in your area.

• Know Now: Know how to safely turn off your utilities, this includes electricity, water, and gas. Only turn off gas if instructed by local officials or CenterPoint Energy.
• Check on your Neighbors: Work with your neighbors ahead of time to plan for heavy rain and strong winds. Remember that neighborhoods that plan together recover faster.

Where to Get More Information


During these types of situations, rumors and misinformation can be everywhere. That's why it is important to seek out official information from trusted sources. This includes:
• City of Houston Emergency Information Center (houstonemergency.org)
• National Hurricane Center (hurricanes.gov)
• National Weather Service, Houston/Galveston Forecast Office (weather.gov/houston)
• Local Television and Radio
• Official City of Houston social media channels (for a full list, visit houstontx.gov/socialmedia)
Just because you're disabled, you don't have to be a victim
Be Weather Aware & Prepared!
Barbara Jordan Winner in Media
Disability Integration Consultant
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Texaspirate11
Posts: 1278
Joined: Tue Dec 31, 2013 12:24 am
Contact:

Voluntary evacuation (BOLIVAR) for those that need medical assistance
Depend on electricity to breathe
Elderly and other Functional Needs

http://www.khou.com/weather/voluntary-e ... /450801266
Just because you're disabled, you don't have to be a victim
Be Weather Aware & Prepared!
Barbara Jordan Winner in Media
Disability Integration Consultant
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Texaspirate11
Posts: 1278
Joined: Tue Dec 31, 2013 12:24 am
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Happy Summer Solstice!

Currently, TS Cindy is predicted to roll into Tx/La border
Although we are still under a Tropical Storm Warning, rains/tropical winds will affect
the most Eastern parts of our area (think Galveston/Chambers/Liberty/Jefferson Counties)
We may see some rain but nothing like NOLA and those in the Central Gulf States/NE FLA. have been seeing.

Continue to monitor the weather until TS Cindy has made landfall which should be sometime maybe
tonight or tomorrow - she's a slow mover....

Happy Summer!
Just because you're disabled, you don't have to be a victim
Be Weather Aware & Prepared!
Barbara Jordan Winner in Media
Disability Integration Consultant
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Texaspirate11
Posts: 1278
Joined: Tue Dec 31, 2013 12:24 am
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ABILITIES EXPO is coming back to Houston!

This is the largest fair for People with Disabilities/Stakeholders/Advocates/Educators
to learn about the latest technology/updates on laws/and YOURS TRULY: Emergency Preparedness

I will be holding another workshop on Friday August 4th from 1-2 p.m.NRG STADIUM
It was very well attended last year and our panel promises to be just as good ...

We will:
Give tips on how to prepare
Where to get the correct information Before/During/After a storm
How to deal with the aftermath of a storm
Flooding information
How to register if you need to evacuate out of an area.
and Much More!

Last year, we heard stories from people on the problems they faced and other issues.
Our expert panel was there to really guide people with disabilities through.


I hope to see YOU there - please share this link (Below)

http://www.abilities.com/houston/workshops.html
Last edited by Texaspirate11 on Mon Jul 24, 2017 10:59 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Just because you're disabled, you don't have to be a victim
Be Weather Aware & Prepared!
Barbara Jordan Winner in Media
Disability Integration Consultant
Den
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Yes. It is useful to know. :!:
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Texaspirate11
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Den wrote:Yes. It is useful to know. :!:

Hello DEN! Thanks for you comment & I hope to see you!
Please spread the good word!
Just because you're disabled, you don't have to be a victim
Be Weather Aware & Prepared!
Barbara Jordan Winner in Media
Disability Integration Consultant
Den
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Joined: Tue Jul 11, 2017 5:26 am
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Thanks for the words!
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Texaspirate11
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Joined: Tue Dec 31, 2013 12:24 am
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Wonderful turn out today at the Houston Abilities Expo Preparedness Workshop. The panel was so awesome and the Q & A from the audience was terrific. A lot of preparedness tips shared and the discussion really helped all of us understand what is needed & how to be better partners in preparedness. Thanks to Texas Governors Committee for People with Disabilities/Houston Mayors Office for People with Disabilities/Galveston County OEM/ HGX NWS/UTMB/Stakeholders. !!!!!!!!!!
Just because you're disabled, you don't have to be a victim
Be Weather Aware & Prepared!
Barbara Jordan Winner in Media
Disability Integration Consultant
User avatar
Texaspirate11
Posts: 1278
Joined: Tue Dec 31, 2013 12:24 am
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NHC will be initiating advisories by 5 PM EDT on Potential Tropical Cyclone Seven, located over the northwestern Caribbean Sea.


Just a heads up folks that something is coming into the Bay of Campeche this week.
Although the majority of weather models take it to Mexico, let me REMIND YOU this is
really the start of our hurricane season over here...Once named, it will be Franklin.
And it will be our 7th storm of the season so far.

Lets check up on those plans - support group you may have - your emergency kits
cuz the next one may not head to Mexico...

Please be prepared and weather aware.
Just because you're disabled, you don't have to be a victim
Be Weather Aware & Prepared!
Barbara Jordan Winner in Media
Disability Integration Consultant
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Texaspirate11
Posts: 1278
Joined: Tue Dec 31, 2013 12:24 am
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AUGUST 16, 2017

Hello Summer Lovers
Hope you have enjoyed this summer for those of us who relish the heat & humidity!
Its time to turn our eyes a little more closely to what is going on - and its twirling out there in the
Atlantic
Right now, we have Hurricane Gert - way out there only disturbing the fishes: No threat to us
However we have 91L/92L/and potential 93L all ready to develop into something within 5 days.
Imagine 3 twirls and its not even the peak of the season!

The one I'm most concerned about is 91L which is slated to come into the Carib this weekend
and potentially into the Gulf of Mexico...where does it goes? Too early to tell and I often warn that models
will flip and flop between now and whenever Mother Nature decides to place her hurricane butt.
If named, it will be HARVEY.

Great time to review ALL your plans/communication with your support group/family
Great time to REGISTER For STEAR if you need a way out of an area that is calling for an evacuation.
Just got the report from Austin, and our area is a little low on registration.
Hopefully, its because YOU have made some great decisions on planning or you might think that
you registered last year and you're done

WRONG!

YOU MUST REGISTER EVERY YEAR WITH STEAR. Make it a habit to begin each new year with that resolution
Here is the link for you to register OR if you know someone who may need it - please share this.
It can save a life.

Remember also once the storm is in the GOM, it may be too late to plan - keeping an independent life style for those with disabilities is key and during a disaster does take planning.

STEAR shuts down at a certain point and does not take registration.

Keep your eyes on the GOM these next couple of weeks and your plans ready to execute.

Link:
https://www.dps.texas.gov/dem/stear/public.htm
Just because you're disabled, you don't have to be a victim
Be Weather Aware & Prepared!
Barbara Jordan Winner in Media
Disability Integration Consultant
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Texaspirate11
Posts: 1278
Joined: Tue Dec 31, 2013 12:24 am
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August 21st 2018

I'm sure by now you have been following the saga of 91L which was named Harvey.
Harvey looked pretty healthy then kinda *poofed,* but never say die! He's back and headed into the
Bay Of Campeche where he should get a taste of that hot gulf water and re-organize.

Weather models are beginning to come into agreement that it could be A North Mx/South Tx problem and some models
want to bring it a bit farther north (hurricanes always go towards the pole - or swing north at the last moment)

TODAY would be a great day to go over your plans.
If this system gets it together, it could bring a lot of rain....
floods.....PLEASE go over your plans/kits/medical supplies and continue to monitor the weather.

It's the season - be weather aware & prepared!
Just because you're disabled, you don't have to be a victim
Be Weather Aware & Prepared!
Barbara Jordan Winner in Media
Disability Integration Consultant
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Texaspirate11
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Joined: Tue Dec 31, 2013 12:24 am
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Hello Friends
NOW is the time to pull out your emergency plans as we await for Harvey to emerge into the Bay of Campeche.
As you can see by three different models, there is a high probability that Harvey will visit one of us on the Coast of Texas.

Anywhere from Brownsville to Galveston need to be on the WATCH.

This storm will bring copious amounts of rain - it will be a flooding event.

NOW is the time to watch the news/weather
go over your plans
get your emergency kits together
your medical needs
your important papers if you have to evacuate
your stuff for your service dog
speak to your family/support group if you need to leave an area that may be evacuated.

PLEASE be weather aware and prepared. IF Harvey does come visit it may be Friday....
Just because you're disabled, you don't have to be a victim
Be Weather Aware & Prepared!
Barbara Jordan Winner in Media
Disability Integration Consultant
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Texaspirate11
Posts: 1278
Joined: Tue Dec 31, 2013 12:24 am
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Today, Wednesday, August 23rd is the day you need to get your emergency kit/supplies and other essentials together. Know your evacuation route/speak to family or support groups/get your important papers together in case you have to evacuate. This storm promises to be a flood maker. Stay weather informed
Just because you're disabled, you don't have to be a victim
Be Weather Aware & Prepared!
Barbara Jordan Winner in Media
Disability Integration Consultant
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