Know your risk – Hurricanes are not just a coastal problem. Impacts from wind and water can be felt many miles inland. Significant impacts can also occur regardless of the storm’s strength.
Consider your threats: Storm surges, flooding from heavy rain, strong winds, tornadoes, rip currents
Determine if you live in a flood-prone area
Find out if you live in an evacuation zone
Avoid having to rush through potentially life-saving preparations by getting your disaster supplies now. Supplies may not be available just before a storm arrives. Get an insurance review early, as flood insurance requires a 30-day waiting period.
Get an insurance checkup and document your possessions
Create a communication plan with a hand-written list of contacts
Strengthen your home
Understand forecast information before a storm. This can tell you a lot about what is expected, including the storm’s path, rainfall amounts, wind speeds and more. Most importantly, it lets you and your family know what actions to take to prepare, monitor, shelter or evacuate.
Rely on forecasts from your local National Weather Service office
Know your alerts and the difference between Watch and Warning
Focus on potential impacts, regardless of storm size and category
Know that deadly hazards occur well outside of the Forecast Cone
Know what to do during a storm. Whether you’ve evacuated or are sheltering in place, know what to expect from the hazards you may face. Remain vigilant, stay up-to-date with the latest forecasts and alerts, and continue to listen to local officials.
Protect your home: Cover windows, secure doors and loose items
Determine sheltering options and consider your pets
Ready you go-bag, meds and supplies, charge phones, fill up/charge vehicle
Help your neighbors, especially the elderly and other vulnerable people
Follow evacuation orders if given
A key part of hurricane preparedness is understanding the dangers that remain well after a storm. This is not the time to put your guard down. Nearly half of hurricane fatalities occur after the storm.
Use caution after storms: If evacuated, only return home when directed it is safe to do so
Remain vigilant, as hazards remain: Heat, downed power lines, floodwaters, etc.
Clean up safely: Don’t push yourself and check on neighbors
Only use generators outdoors, 20+ feet from your house
Prepare for the likelihood that help and communications may not be available
Do not wait to take action! Start preparing today!
Determine your risks from water and wind
Begin preparing now, before a storm
Learn how to understand hurricane forecasts and alerts
