Food Safety Tips for Hurricane and Flooding Safety

Jul 19, 2023

While West Virginia is suffering from devastating flooding, Florida, Georgia, and the southeast coast are dealing with Hurricane Idalia and its aftermath. In emergency situations like this, it’s important to remember vital food safety practices to keep a bad situation from getting worse.

Hurricane Idalia looms over floridaAs Hurricane Idalia intensified moves through Florida and up the U.S. coast, residents are on high alert.

Tropical Storm Idalia rapidly transformed into a Category 3 hurricane. Life-threatening storm surges and dangerous winds have swept through various parts of Florida and forecasters predict it will continue up the coast.

West Virginia suffers from unrelenting floodingAs Florida prepared for Hurricane Idalia, West Virginia grappled with the aftermath of excessive rainfall, leading to widespread flooding. Gov. Jim Justice declared a State of Emergency for Kanawha, Braxton, Calhoun, Clay, and Roane counties. The torrential rains have inflicted damage upon homes, bridges, and roads in these regions.

Gov. Justice’s statement can be found here.

Ensuring food safety amidst the chaosWith both regions facing unique challenges, ensuring food safety during and after these catastrophic events remains a top priority. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration and other organizations provide crucial guidelines for residents to safeguard their food and health.

Before a storm hits:

Food safety after flooding:

During power outages:

After power restoration:

Farmers’ concerns and resources:

Both West Virginia and Florida are currently marshaling resources, emergency teams, and relief efforts to aid affected residents. By following these essential food safety tips, individuals can better protect themselves and their families during these trying times. For more information, residents can access resources provided by local health departments and relevant agencies, or contact the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 888-MPHotline.

Stay safe, stay informed, and stay prepared as these natural disasters unfold.

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