Latest news with #HomelandSecurityandEmergencyManagement
CBS News
6 hours ago
- Climate
- CBS News
With flash flooding possible in Minnesota, stay safe with these tips
Minnesotans have seen plenty of rain this week, and more is on the way for parts of the state, bringing the risk of flash flooding. "If we get a large, overland rainfall, it could be a problem," said Kevin Reed, deputy director of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. Dry conditions this spring have allowed the ground to soak up much of the rain so far. But as it becomes more saturated, the chances of flash flooding increase. "What we are looking at is if we get any specific downpours in any of these areas of 2, 3, 4 inches at one time in a very short amount of time," said Reed. On Friday morning, flash flooding alerts were issued for parts of south-central Minnesota. Reed said when flooding hits, drivers should do what they can to avoid roads in that area. "Three-to-six inches and you can move a car, pretty quickly," he said. "The other thing is you don't know what happened to that road, and there are times when it can under-wash, undercut that road." WCCO Reed says the most crucial thing to do is to not drive into any type of water, no matter how shallow it may seem. And he says if you do get caught in your vehicle during a flash flood, the best thing is to safely get out as soon as possible and seek high ground immediately. Homeland Security and Emergency Management also recommends that you don't cross a flowing stream on foot as floodwater often contains dangerous debris, and can be contaminated with sewage. Also, do not camp or park near rising streams and rivers. If you live in a low area and heavy rain is forecasted, be ready in case you need to evacuate quickly. "Make sure you get your medications, your phone, a phone charger, contact information and take that with you along with your insurance information," said Reed. "Have that with you in case you have to leave your house in any quick amount of time." Reed says construction zones and highway underpasses can also be dangerous during flash flooding events.
Yahoo
04-05-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Austin's Homeland Security & EM host pop-up event
AUSTIN (KXAN) — Austin's Homeland Security and Emergency Management is hosting a pop-up event on May 21st at the Menchaca Road Branch Library at 3 p.m. Meteorologist Tommy House sat down with David Wiechmann, who is with HSEM, to learn more. Read an edited version of the conversation below or use the video player above to listen. Meteorologist Tommy House: I want to talk about how Austin's Homeland Security and Emergency Management has emergency pop-ups around Central Texas. Walk viewers through what exactly that is. David Wiechmann: The monthly 'Emergency Preparedness Pop-Ups' are one way our office gets out into the community to engage people with information, supplies, and resources to help them prepare for emergencies ahead of time. We want to make sure folks know what to do before a storm rolls in, before a flood happens, before winter storms hit, anything of that nature, because you are the help until help can arrive. If you have materials or a plan in place before something happens, you'll be more prepared and better able to take care of yourself until assistance arrives. We rotate these events throughout the year. Our 'Emergency Preparedness Pop-Ups' are held on the third Wednesday of each month, except in September and December. In September, we host a larger version, a big preparedness fair with about 25 vendors and departments tabling. That's because September is Emergency Preparedness Month. Each month, we rotate through different City Council districts so we can reach neighborhoods all over the city. We bring in partners like public safety agencies and other organizations involved in emergency preparedness or response. They hand out useful supplies, and our table offers information on what to do in an emergency. We also give out a basic emergency supplies starter kit to the first 25 people who come through. People line up early to get them, they really want those backpacks with essential supplies. The basic starter kit includes things like a flashlight, a glow stick, a blanket, a small first aid kit with bandages, and a few other items. It's a simple kit to get you started. At our booth, you'll also get more detailed information on how to build a full supply kit so you're ready for three to seven days, whether you need to shelter in place or evacuate your home. We provide guidance on what to do before, during, and after an emergency, covering many different types of scenarios. House: When would the next one be in the Austin area? Wiechmann: Our next one is coming up on May 21 at the Manchaca Branch Library on Manchaca Road, from 3 to 6 p.m. We've actually moved our event times this year in 2025, we've shifted to an hour earlier than last year. So if folks are used to coming, they should know the events now start at 3 o'clock instead of 4. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
