FEMA Warns Of Inland Flooding From Tropical Depression Ernesto
Release Date: August 30, 2006
Release Number: HQ-06-133
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WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) warns that Ernesto still remains a threat and residents should be aware of inland flooding and other dangers after the storm passes.
Federal and state officials remind people in Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia and other states along the East Coast to continue to monitor weather forecasts.
“I want to stress the critical need for individuals to follow instructions from local officials, especially when issuing evacuation orders before, during and after the storm passes,” said FEMA Director David Paulison. “In recent decades, inland flooding has been responsible for more than half of all deaths associated with tropical cyclones in the United States.”
FEMA officials say the average person can be swept off their feet in 6 inches of moving water and the average automobile can be swept off the road in 12 inches of moving water. At least 23% of U.S. tropical cyclone deaths occur to people who drown in, or attempt to abandon, their cars.
Director Paulison warned that many other dangers remain in a storm’s aftermath, including downed power lines, contaminated drinking water supply and floodwater that can contain sewage and chemicals.
FEMA Rapid Needs Assessment teams stand ready to move into potentially flooded areas to identify damage to infrastructure and private property.
FEMA continues to closely monitor Ernesto with the Hurricane Liaison Team at the National Hurricane Center and continues to coordinate with state and local officials.
