Tropical Storm Debby – Helpful Information to Prepare
Tropical Storm Debby is expected to travel northward, impacting portions of North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, Washington, D.C. and Pennsylvania later this week.
According to the National Hurricane Center, Debby is expected to produce potentially historic rainfall totals of 10 to 20 inches, with maximum amounts of 25 inches, bringing areas of catastrophic flooding across portions of southeast Georgia, the eastern half of South Carolina and southeast North Carolina through Friday. From North Carolina through portions of the Mid-Atlantic States, 4-8 inches of rainfall, with local amounts up to 12 inches are expected through Sunday morning.
If you experience a loss related to the storm and need to file a claim, Erie Insurance and your Agent are here to help. For claims service during evenings and weekends, call (800) 367-3743.
We encourage you to stay off the roads during heavy rains and follow these tips to reduce damage and stay safe:
• Clear the lawn. Bring in garbage cans, lawn furniture, bikes, toys, hanging plants and lawn decorations. If possible, remove the swings on your child’s swing set to prevent unnecessary damage.
• Bring valuables upstairs. Move furnishings and valuables to the highest point in your house to avoid losing an irreplaceable item to water damage.
• Prepare extra lights. Keep a supply of flashlights and extra batteries handy in case of loss of power. Avoid open flames, such as candles and kerosene lamps, as a source of light.
• Unplug TVs, computers and appliances. If you lose power, turn off and unplug all major appliances, including those attached to a smart plug or surge protector, to avoid a power surge when the power is turned back on.
• Do not drive or walk through standing water. Water can be deeper than it appears, and two feet of water can sweep away most cars and six inches of moving water can sweep you away when walking.
• Prepare an emergency kit with basic first aid supplies, bottled water, shelf-stable food, blankets, etc. For a full list of what to include, read our blog on must-have items for you home emergency kit.
