September 12, 2008
1400 Hrs.
With the advancement of Ike, Montgomery County can expect high winds, tornadoes, and heavy rains. While these conditions cannot be predicted or their complete impact on the area projected, it is important for everyone to put into action their emergency plans to protect themselves and families.
Flooding caused by the torrential rains can occur in both coastal and inland areas. The slower the storm moves the greater the flooding may be. Tropical Storm Claudette in 1979 dumped 45 inches of rain near Alvin, Texas. In 2001 Tropical Storm Allison dumped 36 inches of rain on Harris County. The heaviest rainfall can occur 200 miles away from the center of the storm. Flooding, including flash flooding, is the number one cause of weather-related deaths in Texas.
Tornadoes are often spawned by hurricanes. These can occur well away from the center of the storm hurricane.
Even the weakest hurricane can damage buildings, flood roads and uproot trees. The strongest storms can destroy buildings and property. Hurricane force winds have downed trees and power lines as far away as 175 miles from coastal areas.
Hurricane Ike’s landfall is imminent and Montgomery County emergency officials are urging residents to prepare for potential tornadoes in the area. Remain alert for approaching tornados. Watch the sky and stay tuned to radio and television broadcasts for updated information and warnings.
Bring in outdoor objects or other debris that could become deadly missiles, such as patio furniture, hanging plants, trash cans, gardening tools and barbecue pits.
Inside your home, you should shelter in place in interior rooms on the lowest levels such as a closet or interior hallway.
Assemble a family emergency supply kit. It should contain the following items: radio and flashlight with extra batteries, extra eye glasses, medications and prescriptions, special products for babies and the elderly, bottled water, non-perishable food, clothes, bedding and important documents sealed in waterproof containers.
The Emergency Management Office will continue to monitor the movements of Ike. You should consult media programming for updates on the storm and take action to protect yourself and family. Don’t become a victim of Rita.
Those who live in areas that are susceptible to being cut-off by flooding need to take steps to insure they have food, water, and other necessities that may need to last several days. History teaches that some areas may be cut-off or without power for several days to several weeks. Those who live in flood prone areas should be taking necessary precautions to protect themselves and their families.
Due to the possibility of localized flooding and high winds, Montgomery County is opening shelters of last resort for citizens to ride out the storm. Citizens who live in homes that cannot stand tropical storm and/or hurricane force winds or those who live in flood plains or low lying areas should consider evacuating to one of these shelters. No pet will be allowed, with the exception of service animals for essential life functions.
RESIDENTS SEEKING SHELTER NEED TO BRING THEIR OWN BEDDING AND FOOD.
Willis High School
F.M. 830 & 75
OPENING @ 5:00PM
Caney Creek High School
16840 F.M. 2090
OPENING @ 5:00PM
Oak Ridge High School
27330 Oak Ridge School Road
OPENING @ 5:00PM
Montgomery Junior High
1900 Stewart Creek Rd.
OPENING @ 5:00PM
Magnolia 6th Grade Campus
110 S. Magnolia (FM 1774)
OPENING @ 6:00PM
New Life Assembly of God
17030 Main St.
Splendora
OPENING @ 4:00PM
West Conroe Baptist Church
Longmire and Loop 336
OPENING @ 4:00PM
High Point Fellowship 12308 HWY 59 @ Fostoria Splendora
OPENING @ 7:00PM
Patton Village Court Room 16940 Main Street
Patton Village
Montgomery County OEM will continue to monitor the situation and send reports as necessary. Montgomery County EOC can be reached at 936-582-3100.
