More people die after a storm than during it, and most of those deaths are preventable.

When a storm moves out, the risks don't end; they shift. In storms like Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Ian, many deaths happened after the storm, not during.

The Rio Grande Valley has seen some of those post-storm dangers in the past. Those dangers include floodwaters, extreme heat and power outages.

One of the biggest post-storm risks is carbon monoxide poisoning from generators used incorrectly. Channel 5 News has reported at least two cases of carbon monoxide poisoning in the last six years, and one of them was deadly.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports thousands of carbon monoxide poisoning cases every year, with spikes after storms. Know the signs of carbon monoxide poisoning, which include nausea, dizziness, headaches and fatigue.

Here are a few things to keep in mind if you intend to use a generator: Never run a generator indoors or in a garage, even if doors or windows are open.

Use only heavy-duty extension cords, and do not hook up the generator to your home's power supply. Do not overload the generator, and never use one while wet.

Keep the generator at least 20 feet away from your home., as they run on fuel and create carbon monoxide.

Heavy winds during storms also bring down power lines. Assume every downed line is live and never drive over one or touch anything near it.

Stay at least 30 feet away from any downed lines. Electricity can travel through the ground, especially during floods.

Lines can be buried under debris, tree limbs, or even standing water. It's best to keep children and pets out of floodwaters and away from any hidden dangers.

If you see a downed power line, call your local utility company or 911 immediately.

Flooding is another major threat, and it often happens after the storm has already moved out. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the National Hurricane Center, flooding is the leading cause of deaths from tropical systems in the U.S.

In March 2025, dozens of drivers were stranded in the Valley when a storm dumped several inches of rain quickly. If a car engine takes on water, repairs can cost thousands of dollars.

Preparation is key. Understanding your vulnerabilities before, during, and after the storm can make the difference.

Watch the video above for the full story.