Are You Prepared for Hurricane Season?

Do you live in an area of the country that occasionally experiences hurricanes? If so, you know firsthand how devastating these storms can be. These tropical cyclones have sustained winds of 74 mph or stronger. Some have reached 195 mph.

At the center of the air circulation is the eye. There it’s relatively calm. But the strongest thunderstorms and winds circulate in the wall around it.  People in the eye know they’re about to get hit with the ferocious eye wall.

There’s one advantage in dealing with a hurricane rather than a tornado. You have considerably more advance notice to prepare for it.

But both types of storms, as well as others, can be horrific. So even if you don’t live in a hurricane zone, you may find some helpful information here.

Hurricanes don’t watch the calendar

Hurricane season officially starts in 68 days. But it’ll be here before you know it. And as we’ve seen in recent years, named storms usually come earlier than June 1. So don’t wait to prepare. 

One of the biggest downsides to hurricanes is they can be very slow moving. Which means they can produce excessive amounts of water. They can cause extensive flooding. They’re often accompanied by thunderstorms and tornadoes.

Hurricanes can knock out power for days or longer. And cut off usable water supplies. Some of the most destructive U.S. hurricanes in recent memory were Ida in 2021 and Laura in 2020. As well as Michael in 2018, Irma in 2017, and Matthew and Harvey in 2016. 

In 2012, Sandy was the largest Atlantic hurricane on record as measured by diameter with winds spanning 1,100 miles. It affected 24 states. And caused an estimated $65 billion in damage. Especially in New Jersey and New York. 

Having an emergency response plan in place in case a hurricane is heading your way is crucial. The key to dealing with a hurricane is advance planning.

Get your home ready 

One preparedness action is impractical to do in advance. But you should be ready to start executing it at a moment’s notice. When you hear a hurricane is heading your way, quickly prepare your home. This involves: 

• Boarding up windows with plywood or installing storm shutters.

• Securing your roof and siding to your house frame with straps.

• Reinforcing garage doors and trimming long tree branches. And bringing outdoor furniture into your house.

• Familiarizing yourself and your family with utility shut-off switches and valves in your house. In case you need to evacuate. 

Other activities you should engage in prior to a hurricane approaching your area are:

• Familiarize yourself with emergency routes and shelters. Print out those routes and keep them in your vehicle’s glove compartment.

• Prepare an emergency kit you can use at home. Or if you have to evacuate. It should include all the supplies you’d need in a crisis. Including non-perishable food and water. Plus backup power, flashlights and a first-aid kit. 

• Make yourself aware of community shelters in your neighborhood. Just in case you need to use one.

• Make sure your car has a full gas tank. And that important items such as a first-aid kit are in your car. Don’t park your car under a tree or power lines. Or in a low-lying area. 

• Learn in advance which area hotels and shelters accept pets. Prepare go-bags for them as well.

• Place your important documents in a fireproof safe deposit box.

• Have a reliable National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather radio.

During and after a storm

During a hurricane, assuming there was no evacuation order and you decided to ride it out, monitor emergency radio and mainstream media reports.

Close your blinds and move your most valuable possessions away from windows. And then stay away from those windows. Close interior doors and remain in your home’s interior rooms. 

Once the storm has passed, continue to monitor weather reports. Try to use flashlights instead of candles if your power is out.

If you’re returning after evacuating, keep an eye out for flooding. As well as ruptured gas lines and damaged structures. Be aware that water may have become contaminated. Report any damage sustained by your home to your insurance agent as soon as possible.

You need an emergency weather radio

Earlier I mentioned having a weather radio handy. My recommendation is the 4Patriots Liberty Band Emergency Solar Radio. 

This tactical information hub features NOAA weather alerts. With seven 24/7 weather channels and AM/FM and shortwave radio.

It includes an LCD display clock with alarm and an ultra-bright flashlight.

It’s lightweight with the ability to recharge with the power of the sun. 

There’s a hand crank for emergency starting. It can power up other devices when you need them most. Including your cellphone.

We’ve made the 4Patriots Liberty Band Emergency Solar Radio as desirable as possible. But how’s this if you need extra incentive?

If you purchase three of them, I’ll knock a small amount off the price of each unit. And provide you with free shipping. And toss in a few bonuses. Including a free Patriot Power Cell, a free 72-Hour Survival Food Kit and a free $25 gift certificate. 

Here’s how to get yours…