Latest news with #EmergencyApp
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Climate
- Yahoo
Louisiana Red Cross urges preparedness amid hurricane season
SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) — Hurricane season is now officially underway, and the Red Cross of Louisiana wants you to be prepared. Louisiana has reportedly been hit by a tropical storm or major hurricane 54 times since 1851, making it one of the most impacted states in the United States. The Red Cross is encouraging people to be prepared by planning to evacuate or shelter safely at home. Your evacuation plan should include knowing where to go, how to get there, and where to stay. The Red Cross says your stay-at-home plan should focus on gathering the right supplies to live safely without everyday resources. Karen McCoy, Executive Director of the Louisiana Red Cross, discussed the importance of planning during severe weather. 'Preparedness saves lives, and with more frequent and intense storms affecting Louisiana, we're calling on neighbors to get ready now — and to consider joining us in this lifesaving work. Whether you volunteer or donate, every action makes a difference,' said McCoy. Hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. To stay informed, download the free Red Cross Emergency App for real-time alerts. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Red Cross opens shelter in Somerset County for residents impacted by flooding
MEYERSDALE, Pa. (WTAJ) — As floodwaters rose across parts of Somerset County, the American Red Cross opened an emergency shelter in Meyersdale to assist displaced residents following heavy rain and flash flooding. The shelter, located at the Meyersdale Senior Center at 120 North St., is providing food, relief supplies, emotional support and temporary lodging. The Chestnut Ridge and Allegheny Mountains Chapter of the Red Cross is working in coordination with local emergency management and state officials to meet the community's immediate needs. The shelter is open to all individuals affected by the disaster, regardless of whether they plan to stay overnight. All services are provided free of charge. The Red Cross urges anyone needing assistance to call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Officials also advise residents to avoid floodwaters, which may be contaminated, and to monitor local broadcasts and alerts for ongoing safety updates. Additional guidance from the Red Cross warns residents to avoid walking or driving through floodwaters, seek higher ground if flash flooding occurs, and to download the Red Cross Emergency App for real-time alerts and shelter information. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
19-03-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Red Cross shelter in Rolla stays open for tornado victims
ROLLA, Mo. — Missouri residents are reeling from the aftermath of powerful tornadoes that tore through the state, causing widespread damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure and prompting the Red Cross to keep some local shelters open and operational. The hardest-hit areas include the eastern central, northeastern, and southern parts of the state. In the town of Rolla, located in Phelps County, severe damage has left many families without homes and essential services. One of the main shelters still welcoming displaced residents is located at the First Baptist Church, 801 N Cedar St, Rolla, MO 65401. Emergency teams are providing shelter, food, and water to the affected community. With power outages widespread and homes destroyed, the church has become a lifeline for many residents seeking refuge and support. More than 500 people remain without power in Phelps County as of Tuesday night. 'The damage here in Rolla has been devastating,' said Red Cross spokesperson Sarah Hughes. 'We're focused on meeting the immediate needs of the survivors. Our volunteers are working tirelessly to distribute emergency supplies such as food, water, hygiene kits, and blankets, while also offering emotional support.' The tornadoes caused extensive damage in Phelps County, where many homes and trees were uprooted. Emergency response teams are on the ground conducting damage assessments across Rolla and other affected areas, including Poplar Bluff in Butler County and several southern Missouri counties. As assessments continue, the Red Cross is working closely with local officials to determine how best to address the community's ongoing needs. In addition to Rolla, shelters in other parts of Missouri are also serving those in need. A shelter at the Moose Lodge in Union, Franklin County and another at the North County Rec Plex in St. Louis County are also providing refuge for survivors of the storm. The Red Cross is urging those affected by the storm to call 1-800-RED-CROSS for assistance and to download the Red Cross Emergency App for updates on weather conditions and shelter locations. 'We will continue to support the community as they begin the difficult process of recovery,' Hughes added. 'The damage is extensive, but we're committed to helping Missourians through this crisis, one step at a time.' As Missouri recovers from the storm's devastating impact, the Red Cross is expected to maintain a strong presence in the hardest-hit areas, ensuring that residents receive the help they need. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.