STAY VIGILANT AHEAD OF ISAIAS' LANDFALL

10/7/2026

As Alabamians watch the development of Tropical Storm Isaias, the Alabama Department of Insurance encourages all in the path of the storm to stay vigilant.

Here are some tips ahead of the storm's arrival.

To help lessen the damage caused by a storm, take stock of your home. Clear your yard of debris that could become projectiles in high winds and trim dead or overhanging branches from trees surrounding your home. Ensure the roof sheathing is properly secured. Fasten end gables to the roof. Latch doors and garage doors properly. Secure shutters and outdoor furniture.

For personal safety, identify the nearest storm shelter and have an emergency or evacuation plan for your family. Practice your evacuation plan, making sure everyone knows where emergency supplies are stored. Have a storm survival kit that includes bottled water, a first-aid kit, flashlights, a battery-operated radio, at least three days of nonperishable food items, blankets, clothing, prescription drugs, eyeglasses and personal hygiene supplies.

If you must evacuate your home, turn off all utilities and disconnect appliances, reducing the chance of additional damage and electrical shock when utilities are restored.

If you've evacuated, do not return home until local authorities say it is safe to do so.

Know National Weather Service advisory language. A flood or flash flood watch means a flood is possible. A flood or flash flood warning means flooding is already happening or will soon.

Never drive through a flooded road. It's impossible to tell how deep the water is or whether the road itself may have washed away. Just six inches of water can cause drivers to lose control of a vehicle. When you see a flooded road, turn around, don't drown.

If you live in a flood-prone area, move anything you want to protect, like photos, electronics and family valuables, to a higher floor.

Store your insurance information and your agent's contact information in a safe place. If you do sustain damage, take pictures and notify your agent as soon as it is safe to do so.

If you don't have flood insurance, please consider whether you need coverage for future risks. Flooding is not typically covered by homeowners or renter's insurance and even a small amount of water can do thousands of dollars in damage. According to the National Flood Insurance program, more than 20 percent of flood claims come from outside high-risk flood zones.

Policies usually have a waiting period before they take effect. If your insurance agent doesn't sell flood insurance, call the National Flood Insurance Program's Help Center at 1-800-427-4661 or visit floodsmart.gov.

Stay safe, Alabama.