New Virginia site gives Latinos storm advice

RICHMOND, VA. - When Tropical Storm Gaston dropped a foot of rain in 2004, rescue workers confronted more than the elements: At one suburban Richmond apartment complex, more than a dozen Spanish-speaking residents couldn't understand warnings not to step into fast-moving flood waters engulfing their homes.

A year earlier, Red Cross workers found Latino parents waiting at school bus stops as Hurricane Isabel approached, unaware of storm dangers.

Virginia Department of Emergency Management officials will better equip the state's Spanish-speaking population with ListoVirginia.gov, a new Web site offering storm information and tips on preparing for emergencies.

Fliers and evacuation maps also target the Spanish-speaking community as it balloons on the coast and across the state.

At ListoVirginia, a smiling Latino family appears alongside the tips "Get a Kit," "Make a Plan," and "Stay Informed."

The site, a mirror of ReadyVirginia.gov, defines "hurricane watch" versus "hurricane warning" and links users to information on road conditions and evacuation methods.