How to stay prepared during hurricane season

The recent destruction caused by Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton in the southeastern United States, including Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina, is a reminder of the powerful impact these storms can have on major population centers, whether they are on the coast or inland. Heavy rains and flooding, storm surges, and high winds all have the potential to cause havoc for millions of people each year.

Climate change continues to fuel the growth in both the number of hurricanes that impact the U.S. and the Caribbean, as well as the intensity of those hurricanes. For this reason, it’s critical for all of us to take proactive steps to protect ourselves, our loved ones, and our property. Preparedness and early action is key. Here are five essential tips to help you get ready if a hurricane is forecast to affect your community:

1. Have an Emergency Hurricane Plan in Place—Now

One of the most important steps you can take in preparing for a hurricane is developing a clear and actionable emergency plan before the storm arrives. This includes:

• Identifying a safe place to shelter, whether it’s in your home, a nearby shelter, or an evacuation zone.
• Creating a communication plan for how family members will stay in touch if separated during the storm.
• Making sure your emergency contacts are up to date, including family members, local authorities, and out-of-town friends or relatives.

Every minute counts when a hurricane is approaching. By having a plan ready in advance, you’ll avoid the confusion and panic that can occur in the face of an impending storm. Keep in mind that if you live in a coastal area, evacuation orders may be issued early. Pay close attention to any announcements or advisories provided by official sources like the NOAA and local/state government websites.

2. Stock Up on Supplies Early

Once a hurricane is on the horizon, stores can quickly run out of essential items. It’s critical to stock up on supplies well in advance of any storm warnings. Your emergency kit should include:

• Water: At least one gallon per person per day for at least three days.
• Non-perishable food: Enough for at least three days, along with a manual can opener.
• Medications: Ensure you have at least a week’s supply of any necessary prescription drugs.
• Flashlights and batteries: In case of power outages, which are common during hurricanes.
• First aid kit: Include bandages, antiseptics, and any specific medical supplies your family may need.

Additionally, don’t forget to fill your gas tank ahead of time and have extra cash on hand, as power outages may render ATMs and gas stations inoperable.

3. Secure Your Home and Property

Storm damage to homes can be catastrophic, but there are precautionary steps you can take to mitigate the risks:

• Shutter windows: Install storm shutters or use plywood to protect your windows. This will help prevent shattering from high winds or flying debris.
• Secure loose outdoor items: Bring in outdoor furniture, trash cans, and anything else that could become a projectile in high winds.
• Check your roof and gutters: Ensure your roof is in good condition and clean out your gutters to prevent water damage during heavy rains.

You should also review your homeowner’s insurance policy and make sure you have adequate coverage for wind and flood damage. It’s important to document your belongings with photos or videos in case you need to file an insurance claim after the storm.

4. Follow Official Updates and Evacuation Orders

In the days leading up to a hurricane, stay informed by regularly checking trusted sources like the NOAA, the National Hurricane Center, and your local government for updates. Hurricane forecasts are generally accurate, but no weather forecast is guaranteed to be perfect – and even slight changes in a storm’s track or intensity can make an enormous difference. This is why it’s vital to follow the latest advisories closely.

If local authorities issue an evacuation order, do not delay—leave immediately. Evacuation orders are issued for a reason, often because storm surges, which are responsible for a significant number of hurricane-related deaths, are expected in your area. Trying to ride out a hurricane in an evacuation zone is extremely dangerous and could result in life-threatening conditions.

Always trust the experts and heed the advice from official channels. Don’t rely on social media rumors or unverified sources for information during a hurricane threat.

5. Prepare for Power Outages and Communication Disruptions

Power outages are almost guaranteed during hurricanes, and they can last for days or even weeks. Here’s how you can prepare:

• Backup power: If possible, invest in a generator to power essential appliances, such as your refrigerator and medical devices. Make sure to have enough fuel and know how to use the generator safely.
• Charge devices: Charge your phones, tablets, and any other essential electronic devices before the storm hits. Have portable battery packs ready as a backup.
• Backup communication methods: In case cell towers go down, consider having a battery-powered or hand-crank radio to receive emergency broadcasts. Text messages are often more reliable than calls during network congestion, so plan to communicate this way if needed.

When preparing for a hurricane, remember that time is of the essence. Taking precautions now can save lives, reduce property damage, and ensure that you and your family are as safe as possible when a storm strikes. Always rely on official information from trusted authorities like NOAA, and don’t wait until the last minute to act. Your safety depends on it.

By following these tips and staying informed, you can face the threat of hurricanes with greater confidence and readiness. Preparation is not just about getting through the storm — it’s about coming through it safely.

Help provide critical support to disaster victims with Embrace Relief

Any time a storm the size of Hurricane Milton or Hurricane Helene hits a large area, millions of people will be affected – and some, unfortunately, more than others.

Embrace Relief’s Disaster Relief programs help to provide critical aid to those who must rebuild after all kinds of natural disasters – hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, wildfires, earthquakes, pandemics, and on and on.

A donation to Embrace Relief’s Disaster Relief fund helps us to get needed supplies to people as quickly as possible. And in situations where every hour could be the difference between life or death, there’s no time to waste.

Donate today and help Embrace Relief make a life-saving impact the next time that disaster strikes!