Houston residents buy storm supplies ahead of Beryl

HOUSTON — Officials are warning people to stock up on hurricane supplies before Beryl makes landfall along the Texas Gulf Coast.

Some hardware and grocery stores saw people stocking up on supplies on Saturday. Water and generators were among the most sought-after items by shoppers, but there were several other items to keep in mind.

Many people said they were following the forecast closely.

“I just hope it doesn’t get as aggressive as it has been,” Karen Morrow told KHOU 11 News.

Lowe’s Marquis Page said generators and water are the most requested items from customers. Batteries for small electronics and flashlights are also essential.

Securing your home and conducting a home inspection before the storm hits can help assess current needs.

“I would say go around your house and make sure your doors and locks are ready…make sure your smoke detectors are ready,” Page said.

If you use a generator to power your home or appliances, Page said it’s important to run generators outside in a well-ventilated area to avoid the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

In grocery stores, it is recommended to have a seven-day supply of water and non-perishable food items.

“We’re just here to buy water and pasta,” Amy Sablatura said.

Sablatura is curious about what the local impacts might be. She has experienced some of Houston’s worst storms in the past.

“I just wonder how bad the flooding will be in the streets and maybe even flooding and how high the water will be since we live so close to the bayou,” Sablatura said.

An approaching storm is a reminder to check items on the supply list and look out for vulnerable family members or friends.

“We’ve been through this before, you’re just a little skeptical… I would say get with someone who wouldn’t mind you being with them because we’ve been through this so many times,” Morrow said.

Other tips for preparing your home include filling your bathtub with water to flush your toilet in case water service is interrupted.

The City of Houston is encouraging people to prepare resupply kits and have a five to seven day supply of food and water, if needed.

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