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Hurricane |
Hurricanes are violently rotating windstorms, usually including heavy rains and winds of 74 miles per hour or higher. Hurricanes can cause flash flooding, downed trees, downed power lines, power outages and massive amount of debris on roads. The peak months for hurricanes are August and September, however, hurricane season extends from June 1 to November 30.
In general, you should know the difference between a watch and a warning. A hurricane WATCH means that a hurricane is possible within 36 hours. A hurricane WARNING means that a hurricane is expected within 24 hours or less.
In the event of a hurricane watch or warning, you should:
- Listen to a battery-operated radio for news updates and evacuation routes.
- Take your Emergency Go Kit, which should have enough food and water for 3 days.
- Board up windows with plywood.
- Fill up your car with fuel.
- Bring pets inside. If instructed to evacuate, take them with you.
- Evacuate if told to do so.
- Leave early so you are not trapped.
- Stay inside if you do not evacuate.
- Move to a small room, closet or hallway.
- Go to the first or second floor if you're in a multi-story building.
- Avoid using elevators.
- DO NOT walk or drive through moving water and find shelter immediately.
- DO NOT return home (if evacuated) until local authorities give the okay.
- Report any downed power lines immediately.
- Wait for the okay before drinking tap water.
For power outages, call Pepco's 24-Hour Outage Report Line at 1 (877) 737-2662. For downed wires, call Pepco immediately at (202) 872-3432. To have trees or debris removed, call the Mayor's Citywide Call Center at (202) 727-1000.
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Agencies 
Stay Informed. 
