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Tropical storms are formidable forces of nature that demand our utmost attention and preparedness. Many of us spent most of Friday watching the weather and hoping for some sort of pattern change. That change never occurred, and if it did, it was ever so slightly. 

Tropical Storm Ophelia’s predicted path led right through Virginia, prompting Gov. Glenn Youngkin to declare a state of emergency but not before Suffolk Public Schools took a proactive approach, calling for early dismissal from school Friday.

While the storm may have passed by the time you read this, it provides us an opportunity to remind people of the importance of being prepared and staying up to date with weather forecasts.

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your safety during severe weather;

Stay Informed: Regularly monitor updates from reliable sources such as the National Weather Service or local news channels. Timely information can help you make informed decisions regarding evacuations and safety measures.

Prepare an Emergency Kit: Assemble an emergency kit containing essential supplies like non-perishable food, water, flashlights, batteries, a first-aid kit, and important documents. Having this kit readily available can make a significant difference in times of crisis.

Secure Your Home: Reinforce doors and windows, and consider using storm shutters or boarding up windows to prevent leaks and broken glass. Ensure your roof is in good condition to minimize damage.

Evacuate When Necessary: If authorities issue evacuation orders, do not hesitate to leave. Your safety is paramount, and evacuation orders are issued to protect lives. Have a plan in place for where you will go and how you will get there].

Stay Indoors During the Storm: Once the storm arrives, stay indoors, away from windows, and listen to local news for updates. Conditions can change rapidly, so be prepared to evacuate to a shelter if necessary.

Post-Storm Caution: After the storm passes, avoid entering damaged buildings until local authorities deem them safe. Be mindful of downed power lines and flooded areas, which can conceal hazards.

Community Support: Look out for your neighbors, particularly the elderly and those with special needs. Together, we can build resilient communities that recover quickly from tropical storms.

It does not matter the weather source or what alert system you use, we simply ask that you find one and monitor the reports daily. Severe weather can happen at any moment. The best time to prepare is before it happens.

In the face of tropical storms, preparedness and safety must always come first. Let us remember that it’s our collective responsibility to protect ourselves, our families, and our communities from the fury of these natural phenomena.