FEMA Transportable Temporary Housing Units (TTHUs) are designed to be safe and secure
temporary housing solutions, but as with all forms of housing, FEMA TTHUs are at risk for damage in
hurricanes and other severe weather events.
The Danger
- Hurricane season starts June 1.
- Hurricanes are particularly dangerous because of their unpredictability. While they are usually accompanied by heavy rain and strong winds, they can cause tornados and floods.
- Hurricanes are not just a coastal problem. Rain, wind, water and even tornadoes can happen far inland from where a hurricane or tropical storm makes landfall.
In Case of a Hurricane
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A temporary housing unit is not safe in a hurricane. Leave your unit, even if evacuation orders have not been issued.
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If a hurricane is predicted, stay alert to weather warnings and comply with any local official evacuation orders.
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Use a weather radio to monitor evacuation orders.
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Should local officials recommend manufactured housing occupants find sturdier shelter, evacuate immediately.
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Have enough supplies for your household, include medication, disinfectant supplies and pet supplies in your go bag or car trunk. You may not have access to these supplies for days or even weeks after a hurricane.
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Never take shelter in a travel trailer or manufactured housing unit.
In Case of a Tornado
- If a tornado warning is issued for your area, evacuate the unit immediately.
- Take shelter in the lowest floor of a nearby sturdy building or storm shelter, away from windows.
In Case of Flooding
- If the potential for flooding exists in your area, monitor the status via a weather radio or local media.
- Be aware that flash flooding can occur. If a flash flood warning is issued, immediately evacuate and move to higher ground.
- If you have time, place any important items on the highest shelves. Disconnect electrical devices, but not while wet or standing in water.
- When evacuating, do not attempt to walk or drive through flooded areas. Six inches of water can cause you to fall and can flood most compact or midsize cars. A foot of water will cause most vehicles to float. Two feet of water can sweep away even trucks and SUVs.
- Do not leave your pets behind in the TTHU.
Expectations for FEMA Temporary Housing Occupants Before, During and After a Hurricane
Occupants in FEMA temporary housing units are not to board up windows, move the unit, or alter the
units in any physical way. If local emergency management officials require evacuation, individuals
are to only take personal
belongings.
- FEMA strongly encourages applicants to get renters insurance while they are in FEMA units.
- Occupants in FEMA temporary housing units should develop their own evacuation and emergency communication plans. You may have to evacuate quickly due to a hurricane if you live in an evacuation zone. Learn your evacuation routes before you need them.
- Occupants in FEMA temporary housing units should always follow the instructions given for evacuation by the state or local emergency management officials. Those who do not have the ability to evacuate can contact their local emergency manager or call 211 to help them with their transportation needs.
- Do not leave your pet behind in a manufactured housing unit or travel trailer during severe weather.
- If an occupant’s unit is damaged, they are encouraged to contact their case worker to advise whether they can return home; or they may call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.
- Those who use a relay service such as a videophone should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.
Additional Information
▪ More techniques for minimizing severe weather risks are available at www.ready.gov.
▪ Contact local officials for local information and possible evacuation routes. Contact info is available online at www.gohsep.la.gov/about/parishpa