CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Fla. (Sept. 26, 2024) — Hurricane Helene is forecast to bring a life-threatening storm surge and excessive rainfall, which has already led to localized flooding, particularly in tidal and low-lying areas. When this occurs, please take the following precautions:
During flood stage:
- Stay on higher ground.
- Avoid contact with flood waters, especially if you have an open wound.
- Do not drive on flooded roads. Even though you may think it is safe to drive, you may strand yourself if your vehicle stalls. Do not drive around barricades. Driving through water increases the amount of water pushed into people's homes.
- If your vehicle stalls, abandon it immediately and seek higher ground. It can be replaced. Your life cannot.
- Do not attempt to wade across any moving water that is higher than your knees.
After the flood stage:
- Do not eat fresh food that has come into contact with flood water.
- Drink only bottled water.
- Stay away from disaster areas. You will only hamper rescue and recovery efforts.
- Do not handle live electrical equipment.
- Report downed power lines to law enforcement or to the power company.
- If you have private well water, follow CDC guidelines for safety:
https://www.cdc.gov/environmental-health-services/php/water/private-water-public-health.html
Additional flood safety resources can be found here:
- Flood Warning vs Watch
- FloodSmart.Gov
- NOAA Weather Radio
- Turn Around Don't Drown
- Disaster Planning Guide
For storm information, call the Charlotte County Emergency Operations Center at 941-833-4000. Those with internet access can find information on resources at www.CharlotteCountyFL.gov/storm.
Follow Charlotte County Emergency Management for important emergency information at www.charlottecountyfl.gov/em, www.facebook.com/oemcharlottecounty, and www.x.com/ccoem.
For media information, contact Communications Director Brian Gleason at 941-661-6415 or Brian.Gleason@CharlotteCountyFL.gov.
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