Take Steps Now to Prepare for Possible Impacts of Tropical Storm Debby in Loudoun

Loudoun County encourages residents and businesses to take steps now to prepare for the potential impacts of Tropical Storm Debby. The National Weather Service forecast for Loudoun calls for the possibility of heavy rain, flash flooding and tornadoes today, Thursday, August 8 and Friday, August 9, 2024, as the storm moves northward. Loudoun County officials advise residents to be prepared and take precautions to prevent possible storm-related damage and injuries, including:

• Know the Forecast: Get updated weather information online from the National Weather Service (NWS) at weather.gov/lwx and on the NWS Facebook and X. You may also sign up for weather alerts through Alert Loudoun.
• Know What to do if a Tornado Warning is Issued:
  • Go to a safe room, basement or storm cellar. If there is no basement, get to a small, interior room on the lowest level.
  • Stay away from windows, doors and outside walls.
  • If you can safely get to a sturdy building, do so immediately.
  • Do not get under an overpass or bridge. You're safe in a low, flat location.
  • Watch out for flying debris that can cause injury or death. Use your arms to protect your head and neck.
• Turn Around. Don't Drown. Do not drive through flooded roadways. Just six inches of fast-moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away. Take 50 seconds to watch this National Weather Service video -it could save your life.
• Prepare the Area around Your Home: Secure any loose objects outside in your yard or on your deck, such as umbrellas, bins, tools and toys; and keep trees and branches trimmed, especially near your house.
• Prepare for Possible Power Outages
  • Take note of your utility providers' contact information and how to report outages so that you may correctly follow the providers' directions if necessary.
  • Check emergency equipment, such as flashlights, generators and battery-powered radios. Keep your cell phones charged.
  • Recommendations on what supplies to put in your emergency kit are online at loudoun.gov/makeakit.
• Check on Your Neighbors: Check on your neighbors who are older adults to ensure they are prepared ahead of the storm and safe during and after the storm.
• If You Are Unsheltered, Access Loudoun's Drop-In Centers: People in Loudoun who are unsheltered are encouraged to access the drop-in center at the Loudoun Homeless Services Center, 19520 Meadowview Court in Leesburg, or the center located at 21641 Ridgetop Circle, Sterling. The center in Leesburg is open 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., while the center in Sterling is open 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
• Ensure Your Animals' Safety: Make emergency plans for pets. Loudoun County Animal Services provides helpful information about emergency preparedness for pet and livestock owners.
  • Livestock owners can register their animals with Operation: Protect Livestock, a free program offered by Loudoun County Animal Services and the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office. By registering at loudoun.gov/ProtectLivestock owners of farm animals can be quickly notified if their animals break free from their fenced fields and wander into roadways.

Stay Informed

• Sign up for Alert Loudoun at loudoun.gov/alert to receive weather, news and traffic alerts by email and text.
• Follow Loudoun County Government on Facebook and X.

More information about staying safe from storms and other weather-related hazards is online at loudoun.gov/hazards.

# # #