City of Tyler prepares for severe weather
Posted/updated on: March 3, 2023 at 6:37 am
TYLER — The National Weather Service Office in Shreveport issued a tornado watch for Tyler until 10 p.m. Thursday, March 2. Strong to severe thunderstorms will likely continue into the overnight hours. The City of Tyler streets and storm-water crews will respond and intervene during a severe weather event where roads have washed out, and other public facilities may be compromised, according to a news release. If you have an emergency, call 9-1-1, stay on the line and DO NOT HANG UP until your call is answered. Answer all questions and follow instructions. The Tyler Police Department’s non-emergency line (903) 531-1000 should be used for all other calls and notifications, including traffic signal issues.
The City of Tyler has a free emergency alert system that you may sign up for through Smart 911 with RAVE Alert.
Signing up for alerts is easy! Simply follow the RAVE alert link and create your Smart911 with RAVE Alert account. You will then be able to select which alerts from the City of Tyler, Smith County and surrounding areas you would like to receive.
Account users may sign up to receive email and text message alerts. In addition, users may opt to provide additional information like medical conditions, pet information, house description and more. This gives first responders access to critical information on how best to respond to your family’s needs in an emergency situation. All information is secure and will not be shared publicly.
There is also an app available for download for both Apple and Android users.
Turn around. Don’t drown. According to the National Weather Service, it is never safe to drive or walk into floodwaters. People underestimate the force and power of water. Many of the deaths occur in cars swept downstream. Many of these drownings are preventable.
Never drive around the barriers blocking a flooded road. The road may have collapsed under that water. A mere six inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars, and just two feet of rushing water can carry away SUVs and trucks.
This is why you should turn your vehicle around and find an alternative route. Then, report the flooded street to the proper authorities.
For those within City limits in Tyler:
Contact the Streets Department at (903) 531-1393 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday to report flooded streets, potholes, sinkholes, downed trees, stormwater issues and drainage issues.
Contact the Tyler Police Department’s non-emergency line at (903) 531-1000 during off-duty hours.
To report a power outage, text OUT to 66267, use the MyOncor app, call 888-313-4747, or visit stormcenter.oncor.com and select “Report an Outage” located above the map.
Never approach, touch, or attempt to move a downed power line or any object in contact with a power line. Contact with power lines can cause serious injury or even death.
If you see a downed power line:
Leave the area immediately and call 911. The 911 operator will contact Oncor directly and manage the situation until Oncor personnel arrive.
You can also report downed power lines at 1-888-313-4747.
Please be advised that damage to personal property during a flood event is usually the responsibility of the property owner.
It is important, if you live in a flood-prone area, to take immediate steps to protect your property. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provides information on how to prepare for and reduce flood damage. Your homeowner’s insurance provider can also walk you through your coverage and claims process.
Click here for links to other useful information.
