After Hurricane Ida, here's how to get help and stay safe in the difficult weeks ahead

The logistical nightmares can be overwhelming. Here's how survivors can avoid post-hurricane hazards, get help, protect their emotional health and take the first steps toward recovery.

In the most devastated places, "Power outages will last weeks to possibly months," the National Hurricane Center said. "Most of the area will be uninhabitable for weeks or months." The onslaught of stress, grief and logistical nightmares can seem overwhelming. But experts say these tips can help victims stay safe, get help, protect their emotional health and take the first steps toward recovery: