Traveling during a disaster: What you need to know before an emergency strikes

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) — Tropical Storm Lala’s impact on Hawaii is putting a spotlight on emergency preparedness for travelers and what people should know before they leave home.

Palm Springs resident Scott Nevins was in Maui as the storm moved through the islands. He said strong winds, heavy rain and a canceled flight forced him to quickly adjust his travel plans and find another way home.

Nevins ultimately booked a different airline and took three flights back to Southern California.

His experience highlights a concern emergency officials say travelers should think about before a disaster ever happens: how prepared they are to handle an emergency in an unfamiliar place.

Daniel Hurtado, a senior management analyst with the City of Palm Desert, recommends researching the potential hazards at a destination before traveling, signing up for local emergency alerts and creating a communication plan with family members.

“Preparedness really comes down to giving yourself options,” Hurtado said. “Emergency preparedness doesn't mean that you're going to have a plan for every possible disaster.”

Travelers should also identify a meeting place in case they become separated, save important emergency contacts and keep medications and other essentials easily accessible.

If authorities issue an evacuation order, Hurtado says travelers should follow instructions from local officials rather than relying on the route they originally used to enter an area.

Nevins said communication from Maui officials and his hotel helped him feel informed throughout the storm.

“I felt very in safe hands with the people in charge in Maui,” Nevins said. “The mayor was very visible on TV, sending out notices. The hotel was sliding papers under every door with updates, so you didn't feel like you were in the dark about anything.”

Emergency officials say even basic preparation before a trip can give travelers more options if severe weather or another disaster suddenly changes their plans.