Advertisement

"I've never seen this. When will it stop?" said the director of emergency services for the Genesee Lapeer Chapter of the American Red Cross. She was making reference to the tornadoes that have hit Indiana, floods in Iowa and Wisconsin, and California wildfires.

While Red Cross anticipates spending more than $15 million on the recent disasters, the organization has responded through 11 major relief operations and the biggest flooding operation in Iowa in 15 years. According to a news release, the year is on track to break a U.S. record for the number of twisters in a year, the National Weather Service said.

In response the Red Cross has opened 41 shelters with 5,000 overnight stays. In addition, first aid and mental health staff are available to provide counseling and support, while 58 emergency response vehicles and more than 1,400 Red Cross workers are on site in Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Wisconsin, and West Virginia.

Hamm said it's an evolving weather situation as more rain is predicted and it's feared more levees will fail in Iowa.

"They will not call everyone at one time," Hamm said. "They try to pull those closest to the disaster first and will be debriefed before they come back. People don't realize how hard it is. Some people work 18 hours and don't sign on for 9-5."

To be prepared, the Red Cross is also encouraging individuals and families to make an emergency kit, make a plan to be prepared for emergencies, and be informed. Check www.Red Cross.org for additional preparedness information. Hamm suggested those who already have an emergency kit should check the supplies for freshness.

"We encourage everyone to take the necessary precautions to protect their families and loved ones before the disaster strikes," Hamm said.

Hamm said those wishing to help may send a donation to the American Red Cross. Such a donation allows the organization to help disaster victims wherever people are suffering with shelter, food, counseling, and other situations.

To make a donation visit www.redcross.org or call (800) RED-CROSS.

Blood donors are also needed as several blood drives have been canceled due to the flooding. Eligible donors are encouraged to call (800) GIVE-LIFE or visit www.givelife.org to schedule an appointment.

Jennifer Decker can be reached at (810) 664-0811, Ext. 8125 or jennifer.decker@lapeergroup.com.