Five Tips for Weathering Hurricanes and Tropical Storms

Hurricanes, floods and damaging winds are increasingly commonplace around the globe. In 2013, weather events claimed the life of 445 people in the U.S. and injured 2,766 more. The National Weather Service (NWS) is part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and provides early warnings for major weather events to allow residents in affected areas time to prepare or evacuate before the storms arrive. By heeding the warnings issued by the NWS, individuals and families can increase their chances of survival when dangerous weather conditions occur. Here are five important strategies for riding out the storm in safety.

Don’t Delay

State and local authorities can issue voluntary or mandatory evacuation orders for residents in the path of a hurricane. Complying with these orders is vital to survival. For those who live along coastlines or in areas that frequently experience tropical storms, maintaining a kit that contains basic supplies for the entire family can make the evacuation process much faster and easier. Fill up the family car before leaving the local area; during hurricane evacuations, fuel stations along the highways and major thoroughfares are likely to have long lines and extended wait times.

Water, Water Everywhere

Floods are especially dangerous in low-lying areas or coastal regions. Ironically, however, one of the biggest risks associated with floods is the contamination of water supplies in the days and weeks following the storm. Maintaining at least a week’s worth of bottled water can help families during the cleanup period and can reduce the risk of dehydration or illness from drinking potentially contaminated water. Most authorities recommend storing at least one gallon of clean water per day for each person in the home to ensure adequate supplies during and after the storm. Pets will need the same amount of water per day to stay healthy and hydrated.

Batten Down the Hatches

Boarding up windows and closing storm shutters can often provide a modicum of protection for homes and personal belongings in minor to medium-strength storms. For families that plan to stay in their homes, taking steps to keep the worst of the wind and water out can offer added safety inside. Additionally, boarding up windows can help to deter vandals or thieves in the event of a full-scale evacuation order. Individuals and families who live close to the coastline, on coastal islands or who reside in mobile homes, however, should not remain in their homes at all if a major storm has been forecast for their area.

Monitor the Airwaves

Residents of coastal regions should obtain a NOAA-approved weather radio and keep a supply of batteries handy for the device. Weather radio broadcasts offer valuable information about the likely path of incoming storms, the strength of winds and the likely effects on homes and property. Official bulletins can also provide information regarding mandatory and voluntary evacuations, allowing residents in at-risk areas to make plans before the storm hits.

Prepare for the Worst

For families and individuals who elect to stay in their homes during the storm, a few simple strategies can help to ensure greater safety and comfort:

• Turning the temperature control on the refrigerator and freezer to the coldest possible setting and moving as much food as possible to the freezer can help to preserve it during a prolonged power outage. If the power goes out, be sure to keep the refrigerator and freezer closed to retain the cold as long as possible.

• Filling all sinks, bathtubs and large containers prior to the storm can provide water for washing hands and managing basic hygiene without dipping into bottled water supplies.
• Shutting off propane tanks and turning off gas lines into the house can reduce the risk of fire during and after the storm.

• Turning off or unplugging all non-essential appliances and electronic equipment can protect your home and belongings. If an electrical outage or power surge does occur, this will reduce the risk of damage to these items and will lessen the drain on the electrical system when power is restored.

Residents should be prepared to leave immediately if the storm strength is upgraded or if local or state authorities issue an evacuation order for the area.

Complying with evacuation orders promptly is the single most important factor in surviving hurricanes and other large-scale tropical storms. By preparing for major weather events well before they are forecast, residents in coastal areas can minimize the last-minute rush and can increase their safety during and after the storm.