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U.S. Embassy Tegucigalpa

Avenida La Paz

Tegucigalpa, Honduras

To:             All American Citizens

From:    American Citizens Services Unit, Consular Section

Date:     August 27, 2010

Subject:  Warden Message – Importance of Preparing for Natural Disasters

In light of the recent heavy rainfall and flooding in Honduras and the potential for hurricanes and earthquakes, the U.S. Embassy in Tegucigalpa wishes to remind U.S. citizens of the importance of being prepared if a natural disaster strikes Honduras.  The destruction and disruption of services caused by a major natural disaster makes it important to plan ahead.  The following information will help U.S. citizens plan for a major disaster.  Remember it is important to involve the entire family in preparing for a natural disaster.

Natural disasters may cause damage to infrastructure which may disrupt transportation and force U.S. citizens to change or delay travel plans.  Roads may be washed out or obstructed by debris, adversely affecting access to airports and land routes out of affected areas.  Reports of looting and sporadic violence in the aftermath of natural disasters are not uncommon.  Local security and assistance may not be readily available in the event of a disaster.  Therefore, U.S. citizens are encouraged to be well-prepared.

Hurricanes

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts an “active to extremely active” hurricane season in the Atlantic Basin this year, with a 70 percent probability of 14-23 named storms and 8-14 hurricanes, of which 3-7 could be major hurricanes.

Suggestions of things to do to prepare for a hurricane:

· Organize an emergency kit in a waterproof container

o Include a supply of bottled water, non-perishable food items, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, emergency funds, and vital documents (especially U.S. passports and other identification)

· Monitor local radio, local media, and the National Weather Service to stay aware of area weather developments.  (Minor tropical storms can develop into hurricanes very quickly, limiting the time available for a safe evacuation)

· Travelers should apprise family and friends of their whereabouts and remain in close contact with their tour operators, hotel staff, and local officials for evacuation instructions in a weather emergency

· Consider potential evacuation routes and be aware of the possibility of mudslides and unstable ground when planning your route

Earthquakes

An earthquake may strike at any time without warning.  Shaking may begin with a violent jolt or start out gently and increase quickly.  It may be very difficult to move from one room to another.

Suggestions of things to do to prepare for an earthquake:

· Develop a family emergency plan—discuss with your family what to do during an earthquake and what actions to take after the initial shock

· Identify potentially dangerous items such as tall and heavy furniture that can topple

· Learn how to shut off utilities

· Decide how to contact family members if they are away from home remembering that phone service may be unavailable

· Have on hand emergency supplies (sufficient for at least 72 hours)

During an earthquake:

· If you are indoors, stay there

· If you are in a high-rise apartment building, stay in the building on the same floor.  Do not use the elevator

· If you are using a gas stove, turn off the stove at the first sign of shaking and quickly move to a safe place under a door frame, archway, or corner

· If you are in your car, pull to the side of the road and stop

· If you are inside a car and power lines have fallen on the vehicle, do not attempt to exit the vehicle

· If the earthquake has been severe, do not attempt to cross bridges or overpasses that may have been damaged

· Do not be surprised if the electricity goes out and car and building alarms or sprinkler systems activate

Remember that aftershocks are common.  Move into a safe area of your home, if necessary remove all potentially dangerous items that may fall.  Gather and keep all your emergency supplies and your handheld radio next to you.  If exposed when an aftershock hits, take steps to avoid falling debris by getting to as open a space as possible, away from walls, windows, buildings and other structures.  If indoors, take shelter under a heavy table or desk, or in a doorway.  Avoid damaged buildings, and obey all instructions from local authorities.  Do not use matches, lighters, candles or other flame in case of disrupted gas lines.  Avoid downed power lines.