Tropical Storm Bertha Is Approaching: What Gulf Coast Families Should Know

A few steps today can help protect families and communities as severe weather approaches

Tropical Storm Bertha is moving toward the northern Gulf Coast, bringing the potential for damaging winds, heavy rain, flash flooding, storm surge and dangerous coastal conditions across parts of Florida, Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana. 

For families in the storm’s path, the time to prepare is now. 

Reliable energy matters every day. During severe weather, it becomes essential. Electricity keeps phones charged, food and medicine cold, emergency communications operating and critical services available. 

Across the Gulf Coast, utility crews, grid operators, fuel suppliers, emergency responders and other energy workers are preparing to respond. Many will work around the clock before, during and after the storm to protect critical infrastructure and restore service as safely and quickly as conditions allow. 

Take a Few Steps Now 

Storm forecasts can change quickly. Families should follow instructions from local officials and continue monitoring updates from the National Hurricane Center and their local National Weather Service office. 

Before conditions worsen: 

• Charge phones, portable batteries and necessary medical equipment. 

• Stock food, water, medications, flashlights and other supplies for several days. 

• Know your evacuation route and where you will go if local officials tell you to leave. 

• Secure outdoor furniture and other items that could become dangerous in strong winds. 

• Save your utility’s outage-reporting information. 

• Keep vehicles fueled and avoid unnecessary travel once conditions deteriorate. 

Ready.gov recommends keeping enough food, water and essential supplies to support your household for several days following an emergency. 

Use Generators Safely 

Portable generators can provide important backup power, but improper use can be deadly. 

Generators should never be operated inside a home, garage, shed or other enclosed space. Keep generators outdoors, at least 20 feet from homes and buildings, with the exhaust directed away from windows, doors and vents. Families should also make sure working carbon monoxide alarms are installed throughout the home. 

Never connect a generator directly to a home’s electrical system unless the equipment has been properly installed by a qualified professional. Improper connections can endanger both residents and utility workers repairing nearby lines. 

Give Energy Workers Room to Work 

After the storm passes, avoid downed power lines, damaged equipment and flooded areas. Always assume a fallen power line is energized. Report it to local authorities and your utility and stay far away. 

Restoring energy safely takes coordination, expertise and time. Crews must assess damage, remove hazards and often rebuild parts of the system before power can be returned. 

Tropical Storm Bertha is another reminder that resilient infrastructure and year-round preparation matter. The investments made before a storm, and the people ready to respond afterward, help Gulf Coast communities withstand severe weather and recover faster. 

Prepare now. Follow local guidance. Stay safe.