Hurricane Rita: UMCOR's Initial Response

As Hurricane Rita churned across the Gulf of Mexico UMCOR workers were in the Gulf region planning a range of responses. The 17th named storm of the 2005 season, Rita promised to be as powerful as Katrina, the hurricane that devastated a three-state area on Aug. 29, 2005. UMCOR plans include empowering survivors of both storms with comfort, tools, and other assistance.

Hurricane Readiness

• Listen to local emergency authorities and follow their advisories
• Have three days' food and water and extra batteries on hand
• Have a plan to contact the most vulnerable members of your congregation to ensure their safety

Be a Good Neighbor

Before, during and after a storm the size of these hurricanes, you and your neighbors may rely on one another more than usual. You can be a good neighbor by recognizing that you can establish remarkable connections which may not be possible in ordinary times. Be open and flexible. Keep one another in thoughts and prayers.