Hurricane season runs annually from June 1 through November 30. While Breinigsville and the Lehigh Valley are not coastal communities, tropical systems and their remnants can still bring heavy rainfall, flash flooding, strong winds, and extended power outages to our area - particularly between August and October.

The Breinigsville area and Lehigh County have experienced significant flooding and wind damage from tropical storms in past years. Preparation is essential.

Build a Disaster Supplies Kit

The American Red Cross recommends assembling a Disaster Supplies Kit before severe weather threatens. Your kit should include:

• First aid kit and essential medications

• Nonperishable food and a manual can opener

• At least one gallon of water per person per day for a minimum of three days

• Flashlights, battery-powered radio, and extra batteries

• Portable phone chargers or power banks

• Protective clothing, rain gear, and blankets

• Special supplies for infants, seniors, and individuals with disabilities

• Written instructions for safely turning off electricity, gas, and water (only if directed by authorities; restoration must be performed by professionals)

Store supplies in waterproof containers and keep them accessible.

Flooding and Heavy Rain Risks

Inland flooding is the most significant hurricane-related threat in Lehigh County.

• Never drive through flooded roadways. Just a few inches of moving water can sweep a vehicle away.

• Be especially cautious near low-lying roads, small creeks, and drainage areas.

• Monitor basement sump pumps and consider a battery backup system.

• Move valuables and important documents to higher levels if flooding is possible.

Flash flooding can occur rapidly - even when the storm center is far away.

Prepare Your Home

• Secure or bring indoors outdoor furniture and decorations.

• Trim tree limbs that could damage roofs or power lines.

• Clear gutters and storm drains to improve drainage.

• Test generators before storm season and operate them outdoors only, away from doors and windows.

• Review homeowners or renters insurance coverage.

Extended power outages are common after strong storms. Prepare for several days without electricity.

Know Your Local Evacuation and Emergency Information

Although large-scale evacuations are less common in Breinigsville than in coastal areas, localized evacuations may occur in flood-prone zones.

• Know multiple routes out of your neighborhood.

• Keep your vehicle fueled during storm season.

• Monitor alerts from Lehigh County Emergency Management.

• Follow instructions from local officials and first responders.

Stay Informed

• Monitor trusted weather sources for updates.

• Enable emergency alerts on your mobile device.

• Keep a battery-powered radio available in case cellular service is disrupted.

After the Storm

• Avoid downed power lines and report them immediately.

• Use caution when clearing debris.

• Watch for weakened trees and unstable structures.

• Check on elderly neighbors and those with special needs.

Prepare Before the Storm Forms

Severe weather can develop quickly. The best time to prepare is before watches and warnings are issued.

For additional preparedness information or to schedule a community safety presentation in Breinigsville (18031), contact your local fire department’s Community Risk Reduction Division.