Each year, an average of ten tropical storms develop over the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico. While many of these storms remain over the ocean, about six will typically strengthen into hurricanes, with two reaching major hurricane status with winds greater than 110 mph. In an average three-year period, roughly five hurricanes strike the U.S. coastline, resulting in the loss of 50 to 100 lives from Texas to Maine.
As a homeowner, understanding how to prepare for these storms is not just about protecting your property—it’s about ensuring the safety and well-being of your loved ones. This guide is designed to walk you through the essential steps of hurricane preparedness, providing you with the knowledge and tools needed to face these storms with confidence.
Understanding Hurricanes
Hurricanes are one of the most powerful and destructive natural forces on Earth. Understanding what they are, how they form, and the different types of alerts can help you prepare and stay safe when one approaches.
What Are Hurricanes and How Do They Form?
A hurricane is a type of tropical cyclone—a large, organized system of clouds, thunderstorms, and strong winds that forms over warm ocean waters. For a tropical cyclone to be classified as a hurricane, it must reach sustained wind speeds of at least 74 mph (119 km/h).
Here’s how hurricanes form:
- Warm Ocean Water: Hurricanes typically form over tropical or subtropical waters where the sea surface temperature is at least 80°F (27°C). Warm water acts as the energy source for hurricanes, providing the heat and moisture needed for the storm to develop.
- Moist Air: As the sun heats the surface of the ocean, the warm water evaporates, creating warm, moist air. This air rises, creating an area of low pressure beneath it. More air rushes in to fill the void, creating a cycle.
- Rotation: The Earth’s rotation causes the air to spin around the low-pressure center. In the Northern Hemisphere, hurricanes rotate counterclockwise due to the Coriolis effect. As the air continues to rise and cool, it forms clouds and thunderstorms.
- Formation of the Eye: If conditions remain favorable, the cyclone grows and organizes into a stronger storm. The winds increase, and an “eye” begins to form—a calm, clear center surrounded by a wall of the most intense winds and rain. When the storm reaches sustained winds of 74 mph (119 km/h) or higher, it is officially a hurricane.
Categories of Hurricanes and Their Impact
Knowing the risks that hurricanes pose is key to preparing effectively. Hurricanes are classified by the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, which categorizes them based on their sustained wind speeds.
The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale ranges from Category 1 (least severe) to Category 5 (most severe). Each category represents the potential damage a hurricane’s winds can cause:
Category 1: Winds 74-95 mph (119-153 km/h)
Minimal damage, primarily to unanchored mobile homes, trees, and shrubs. Power lines and poles may suffer damage, causing short-term power outages. People should be prepared for scattered debris and some roof or siding damage on older buildings.
Category 2: Winds 96-110 mph (154-177 km/h)
Moderate damage, including significant damage to roofs, windows, and doors. Larger trees may be uprooted, and there will likely be extensive power outages that could last several days. Mobile homes and older structures may experience severe damage.
Category 3: Winds 111-129 mph (178-208 km/h)
Extensive damage; homes may suffer major damage, such as roof failure and wall collapse. Trees may snap or be uprooted, blocking roads and access routes. Electricity and water will likely be unavailable for days to weeks. Evacuations may be necessary.
Category 4: Winds 130-156 mph (209-251 km/h)
Severe damage to buildings, with some losing most of their roof structure and/or exterior walls. Most trees will be snapped or uprooted, and power poles will be downed. Power outages may last weeks to months, and the area may be uninhabitable for an extended period. Evacuation is strongly recommended.
Category 5: Winds 157 mph or higher (252 km/h or higher)
Catastrophic damage; a high percentage of framed homes will be destroyed, with total roof failure and wall collapse. Trees, power poles, and signs will be blown down. The area will be uninhabitable for weeks to months, and extensive evacuation is mandatory.
Different Impacts Based on Hurricane Categories
While wind speeds are the primary factor in the Saffir-Simpson scale, other impacts such as storm surges, flooding, and tornadoes can occur at any category level. Here’s a closer look at the broader impacts:
- Wind Damage: Strong winds can cause roofs to fail, windows to shatter, and trees to uproot. The risk of wind damage increases with higher categories, especially for older buildings or those not built to withstand hurricane-force winds.
- Storm Surge: Storm surge is an abnormal rise in seawater level caused by a storm, over and above the regular tide. It is often the most dangerous and deadly aspect of a hurricane. Low-lying coastal areas are particularly at risk. Even a Category 1 hurricane can cause dangerous storm surges, but the height and severity increase significantly with stronger categories. A Category 5 storm can create surges over 18 feet (5.5 meters) or more, flooding large areas.
- Flooding: Hurricanes can produce torrential rains, leading to flash flooding and river flooding. Heavy rainfall can occur far from the storm’s center, and even a weaker category storm can cause severe flooding if it moves slowly or stalls over an area.
- Tornadoes: Hurricanes can spawn tornadoes, which add to the overall destructive power of the storm. Tornadoes are more likely to occur in the right-front quadrant of a hurricane and can cause localized but severe damage.
Local Risk Assessment
Understanding the specific risks for your location is crucial. Different areas face different types of threats, such as storm surge, flooding, or wind damage. Here’s a guide to help you assess the risks in your area:
1. Know Your Location’s Vulnerabilities
If you live near the coast or on a barrier island, you may be at high risk for storm surge. Inspect if your home is in a designated storm surge zone by visiting your local government’s emergency management website or consulting resources like FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center.
Low-lying areas, near rivers or lakes, or areas with poor drainage are also susceptible to flooding. Knowing your flood risk helps you prepare for possible evacuation or protective measures like sandbagging.
Moreover, homes located in open areas or at higher elevations may be more susceptible to wind damage. Assess the age and structural integrity of your home, especially the roof, windows, and doors, to determine your vulnerability to wind damage.
2. Check Local Hurricane History and Forecasts
Understanding past hurricane impacts in your area can provide insight into what to expect in the future. Visit local historical weather archives or websites like the National Hurricane Center’s archive to learn about past hurricanes that have affected your area.
Stay up-to-date with current weather conditions by following the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the National Hurricane Center (NHC), and local meteorological services.
3. Use Local Resources for Risk Information
- Community Preparedness Programs: Many communities offer programs or workshops to help residents prepare for hurricanes, such as installing hurricane shutters or creating a family emergency plan. Check with your local Red Cross chapter or community centers for information.
- Insurance Agents: Your insurance agent can provide information on whether you’re covered for flood or wind damage and recommend additional coverage if needed. It’s also a good idea to review your policy annually to ensure it aligns with the risk level of your area.
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA): The U.S. government agency that monitors weather conditions, including hurricanes. Visit their website or follow them on social media for updates.
- National Hurricane Center (NHC): A division of NOAA that specifically tracks tropical storms and hurricanes. They provide regular updates, forecasts, and alerts.
- Local News Stations and Weather Channels: Local news outlets provide specific information tailored to your area. They often have up-to-the-minute updates on storm progress, evacuation routes, and local shelter availability.
- Weather Apps and Alerts: Many weather apps provide real-time alerts directly to your phone. Some of the most reliable apps include The Weather Channel, AccuWeather, and local news station apps.
Preparing Your Home Before Hurricane Season
Getting your home ready before hurricane season can make a significant difference in minimizing damage and keeping your family safe. Preparation involves assessing your home’s vulnerability, performing regular maintenance, and making specific adjustments to reduce the risks associated with high winds, heavy rains, and flooding.
Assessing Your Home’s Vulnerability
Before hurricane season starts, it’s crucial to understand the specific risks your home may face. This will help you focus your preparation efforts where they’re most needed.
- Identify Risks Based on Location
- Flood Zones: If you live in a designated flood zone, your home is at higher risk for flooding during a hurricane. Homes in flood zones should have flood insurance, even if it isn’t required by your mortgage lender.
- Proximity to the Coast: Homes closer to the coast are at higher risk of experiencing the full force of a hurricane, including storm surge, high winds, and flooding. Coastal areas often have stricter building codes and may require additional reinforcements to protect against these risks. Understanding your proximity to the coast and elevation above sea level will help you gauge your home’s risk level.
- Elevation and Surroundings: Low-lying areas, homes near rivers, lakes, or other bodies of water, and properties in regions with poor drainage are also at risk for flooding. Higher elevations can reduce flood risk but may still be vulnerable to wind damage.
- Conducting a Home Inspection to Identify Weak Points
Conducting a thorough inspection of your home can reveal vulnerabilities that may be exploited by hurricane-force winds or flooding. Here’s what to check:
- Roof: Inspect your roof for loose or missing shingles, cracks, or other signs of wear. A roof in poor condition is more likely to suffer damage during high winds. Consider hiring a professional to conduct a thorough inspection, especially if your roof is older.
- Windows and Doors: Check all windows and doors, including garage doors, for any signs of damage or weakness. Make sure they are properly sealed to prevent water from entering your home. Cracks, gaps, or damage should be repaired as soon as possible.
- Foundation and Exterior Walls: Examine your home’s foundation for any cracks or signs of shifting, which can worsen during a hurricane. Water intrusion through the foundation can lead to serious flooding issues inside your home. If your home has a basement, check for signs of previous water damage, such as mold or mildew, which could indicate areas where water could enter.
- Gutters and Downspouts: Check that your gutters and downspouts are clean and in good condition to facilitate proper drainage. Blocked or damaged gutters can cause water to pool around the foundation, leading to flooding or structural damage.
Home Maintenance Tips
Once you’ve identified potential vulnerabilities, it’s time to make necessary repairs and improvements to protect your home.
- Reinforcing Doors and Windows
- Storm Shutters: Install storm shutters on all windows and glass doors to protect them from flying debris. Storm shutters come in various types, such as aluminum panels, accordion-style, and roll-down versions, and they provide a barrier against high winds and debris.
- Impact-Resistant Glass: Consider replacing standard windows and doors with impact-resistant glass. This specialized glass is designed to withstand high winds and flying debris, reducing the risk of shattering.
- Strengthen Entry Doors: Ensure that your entry doors are solid and can withstand strong winds. Replace any hollow doors with solid wood or metal ones, and install heavy-duty deadbolts. On top of that, install door braces or bars that can be engaged during a storm to prevent the door from blowing in.
- Roof Maintenance
- Check for Loose Shingles: Inspect your roof for loose, missing, or damaged shingles, and have them repaired or replaced. Loose shingles are easily torn off by strong winds, exposing the roof deck to rain and wind, which can lead to leaks or even roof failure.
- Reinforce Roof Structures: If you live in a high-risk area, consider reinforcing your roof with hurricane straps or clips, which help secure the roof to the walls of your home. This reduces the risk of the roof being torn off during strong winds.
- Seal Gaps and Cracks: Apply sealant to any gaps or cracks in your roof to prevent water from seeping in. Pay special attention to areas around chimneys, skylights, and vents, as these are common entry points for water.
- Clear Gutters and Downspouts: See to it that your gutters and downspouts are clear of debris so that water can flow freely away from your home. Blocked gutters can cause water to back up and seep under your roof or into your home’s foundation, leading to water damage.
Landscaping Adjustments
The condition of your yard and surrounding landscape can significantly impact your home’s vulnerability during a hurricane. Taking care of the following tasks can help reduce damage:
- Trimming Trees and Removing Dead Branches
- Prune Regularly: Regularly prune trees around your property to remove dead or weak branches that could break off during high winds. Trim back any branches that overhang your home, driveway, or power lines.
- Remove Hazardous Trees: If you have old, diseased, or unstable trees, consider removing them entirely. A fallen tree can cause severe damage to your home, vehicles, and power lines during a hurricane.
- Choose Wind-Resistant Trees: When planting new trees or shrubs, opt for wind-resistant varieties like live oaks or southern magnolias. These trees are less likely to uproot or break during a storm.
- Secure Outdoor Furniture and Decor
- Bring Items Inside: Before a storm, bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, potted plants, and any other items that could become airborne in high winds. Even small objects can become dangerous projectiles.
- Anchor Large Items: If bringing items inside isn’t possible, securely anchor them to the ground. This includes things like barbecue grills, garden sheds, and playground equipment. Use ground anchors, straps, or heavy-duty bungee cords to secure them. Ensure any permanent fixtures, like fences or pergolas, are well-secured and in good condition.
- Clear Gutters and Drains: Keep gutters, downspouts, and storm drains clear of debris to allow proper drainage and prevent water from pooling around your home’s foundation.
Building a Comprehensive Emergency Kit
A well-prepared emergency kit is crucial for staying safe and comfortable during a hurricane or any natural disaster. This kit should contain all the essential items your family needs to survive independently for at least 72 hours. Let’s walk through the essentials you’ll need, including items for daily needs, important documents, and communication tools.
Essential Items
Start with the basics—items that will sustain you and your family if you’re cut off from regular supplies for several days.
1. Water
Plan for at least one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days. This amount covers both drinking and sanitation needs. A family of four should have at least 12 gallons of water in their emergency kit. If you have pets, be sure to include additional water for them as well.
Store water in clean, tightly sealed containers and keep them in a cool, dark place. You can also purchase commercially bottled water or large water containers specifically designed for long-term storage.
2. Non-Perishable Food
Stock up on foods that don’t require refrigeration, cooking, or a lot of water to prepare. Some good options include:
- Canned fruits, vegetables, and beans
- Canned meats and fish (e.g., tuna, chicken)
- Peanut butter or other nut butters
- Granola bars, protein bars, or energy bars
- Dried fruits and nuts
- Crackers and cereals
- Ready-to-eat soups and stews
Note: Remember to account for any special dietary needs in your family, such as baby formula, gluten-free, or diabetic-friendly options.
3. First-Aid Kit
A first-aid kit is essential for treating minor injuries or illnesses that may occur during the hurricane or in its aftermath.
- Basic Supplies:
- Adhesive bandages in various sizes
- Sterile gauze pads and adhesive tape
- Antiseptic wipes and antibiotic ointment
- Tweezers, scissors, and safety pins
- Elastic bandages (for sprains)
- Thermometer
- Instant cold packs
- Disposable gloves
- Medications:
Include any prescription medications, ensuring you have enough for at least a week. Don’t forget over-the-counter medications like pain relievers, anti-diarrheal medication, antacids, and any necessary vitamins or supplements. - Personal Hygiene Items:
Consider adding personal hygiene products such as soap, hand sanitizer, toothbrushes and toothpaste, feminine hygiene products, and moist towelettes. Consider the needs of infants, elderly family members, and pets as well.
4. Medications
Keep at least a 7-day supply of essential prescription medications for each family member, including heart medication, insulin, or any other critical prescriptions. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist about obtaining an emergency supply.
Include a selection of over-the-counter medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrheal medications, antacids, and cold remedies. In addition, If you or a family member uses medical equipment such as insulin pumps, oxygen tanks, or hearing aids, include extra batteries and backup power sources.
5. Personal Hygiene Items
Pack toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, hand sanitizer, sanitary napkins or tampons, diapers if needed, deodorant, and moist towelettes. These items help maintain hygiene in an emergency situation.
Include heavy-duty garbage bags, plastic ties, and a portable toilet or buckets with tight-fitting lids. These items can be invaluable if you lose access to running water or toilets.
Important Documents
In the event of a severe hurricane, you may need to leave your home quickly, and having important documents easily accessible is vital.
- Copies of Identification
Make copies of important identification documents for each family member, such as:
- Driver’s licenses or state IDs
- Passports
- Social Security cards
- Birth certificates
Store these copies in a waterproof and fireproof container or a sealed plastic bag to protect them from damage. You can also consider storing digital copies on a secure, password-protected flash drive.
- Insurance Policies
Having access to your insurance policies, including home, health, and auto insurance, can expedite the claims process if your property is damaged during the hurricane.
What to Include:
- Homeowners or renters insurance policy
- Flood insurance policy (if applicable)
- Health insurance cards and policies
- Vehicle insurance policy
Keep these documents in the same waterproof and fireproof container as your identification. Include contact information for your insurance providers so you can reach them quickly if needed.
- Medical Records
If you or a family member has a chronic medical condition, include a summary of your medical history, current medications, allergies, and the contact information for your doctors.
Like your other documents, store medical records in a waterproof, fireproof container or digitally on a secure flash drive. This ensures you have critical information if you need to seek medical care during or after the hurricane.
- Emergency Contacts
Write down important contact numbers in case your phone’s battery dies, or cell service is disrupted. This should include:
- Family members and close friends
- Local emergency services and shelters
- Your insurance providers
- Doctors and pharmacies
Keep a written list of these contacts in your emergency kit and ensure everyone in the household knows where to find it.
Technology & Communication
Staying informed and connected during a hurricane is crucial. Include the following tech and communication tools in your emergency kit:
1. Portable Chargers
Power outages are common during hurricanes, and your devices will become lifelines for information and communication.
- What to Include:
- Fully charged portable power banks (at least one per person)
- Solar chargers or hand-crank chargers as backups
Tip: Charge all portable power banks fully before the storm hits and limit device use to conserve battery life.
2. Radios
A battery-powered or hand-crank radio is essential for receiving emergency broadcasts and weather updates if cell service and internet are down.
What to Look For:
- Choose a radio that can pick up NOAA Weather Radio frequencies.
- Some models also include USB ports to charge devices, a flashlight, and a hand crank or solar panel for power.
3. Batteries
Keep a supply of fresh batteries in various sizes for flashlights, radios, and other battery-operated devices. Rotate your battery supply regularly to ensure they are always ready for use.
What to Include:
- Stock up on AA, AAA, and any other sizes required by your devices.
- Store batteries in a cool, dry place to extend their life.
4. Power Banks
Extra power banks can help you keep essential devices charged, especially if the power is out for an extended period.
Tip: Consider investing in high-capacity power banks that can charge multiple devices or provide multiple charges for your phone.
Developing a Hurricane Preparedness Plan
Having a well-thought-out hurricane preparedness plan is essential to ensure the safety and well-being of your family during a hurricane. This plan should cover how to communicate with family members, evacuate safely, and prepare an emergency kit tailored to your family’s unique needs. Let’s explore each component in detail to help you create a plan that keeps everyone safe and informed.
Family Communication Plan
A clear and effective communication plan is crucial for staying connected with family members before, during, and after a hurricane. Here’s how to create one:
Gather Essential Contact Information
Make a list of all family members’ contact information, including cell phone numbers, email addresses, and any other relevant details. Be sure to include emergency contacts outside your immediate area, such as relatives or friends who can help coordinate information if local communication is disrupted.
Establish Multiple Ways to Communicate
Relying on just one method of communication (like a cell phone) can be risky during a hurricane when networks may be down. Make sure you have multiple ways to communicate, such as text messages, social media, and landline phones. You can also use messaging apps that work over Wi-Fi, which may be more reliable during outages.
Create a Family Emergency Group Chat
Set up a group chat on a messaging app that everyone can use to share updates and check-ins. Ensure that everyone knows how to use it and has the app installed on their devices. This is a quick way to send out updates to all family members simultaneously.
Practice Regular Check-Ins
Decide on specific times for regular check-ins. For example, agree to check in every morning and evening during a hurricane threat or evacuation. Establish a protocol, such as using a specific phrase to confirm everyone is safe.
You can refer to this for guidance on creating a family communication plan: https://www.ready.gov/sites/default/files/2020-03/family-emergency-communication-planning-document.pdf
Establishing a Meeting Point and Emergency Contacts
Setting a meeting point and identifying emergency contacts are essential steps in any family emergency plan. These preparations ensure that everyone knows where to go and who to contact if communication is disrupted during a disaster.
Designate a Meeting Point
Choose a safe, familiar place where your family can meet if you are separated and cannot reach each other by phone. Pick two locations: one near your home and another outside your immediate neighborhood in case you need to evacuate. Make sure everyone knows the addresses and how to get there.
Identify Emergency Contacts
Select at least one out-of-town emergency contact person. Share this contact information with all family members. This person can act as a central point for passing on messages if local communication is down.
Create an Emergency Contact Card
Make small cards with essential contact information, including emergency contacts, meeting points, and other important details. Give a card to each family member, especially children, to carry with them at all times.
Evacuation Plan
A well-prepared evacuation plan ensures you know what to do if you need to leave your home quickly. Here’s how to create an effective evacuation plan for both local and regional scenarios.
Know Your Evacuation Zone
Determine if your home is in a hurricane evacuation zone. Many local governments provide evacuation maps and zones based on potential flooding, storm surge, and wind risks. You can usually find this information on your city or county’s emergency management website.
Understand When to Evacuate
Know the different types of evacuation orders, such as mandatory and voluntary evacuations. Stay informed about local evacuation orders by monitoring reliable news sources, government alerts, and weather apps. Plan to evacuate as soon as a mandatory evacuation order is issued, or earlier if you feel unsafe.
Plan for Different Scenarios
Create both a local and a regional evacuation plan. For local evacuation, identify a nearby shelter, hotel, or friend’s house outside the danger zone. For a regional evacuation, plan a route to a destination further away, such as another city or state.
You can refer to this for guidance on creating a family communication plan: https://www.osha.gov/etools/evacuation-plans-procedures/eap/elements/floorplan-demo
Additional Tips for Identifying Evacuation Routes and Shelters
- Identify Multiple Evacuation Routes
Plan at least two different routes out of your area in case one becomes impassable due to flooding or traffic. Use local evacuation maps, which often highlight main roads, highways, and alternative routes. Familiarize yourself with these routes by driving them ahead of time.
- Find Nearby Shelters
Locate the nearest emergency shelters in your area, such as schools, community centers, or designated hurricane shelters. Check with local authorities for the latest information on shelter locations and capacities, especially for special needs or pet-friendly shelters.
- Know the Shelter’s Rules and Resources
Understand the rules for bringing pets, medications, or personal items to a shelter. Some shelters have restrictions, and knowing the rules in advance will help you plan better. Bring your own bedding, food, and personal hygiene items, as shelters may not provide these.
- Plan for Your Pets
Make sure your evacuation plan includes a place for your pets. Many shelters do not accept pets unless they are service animals, so identify pet-friendly shelters, hotels, or boarding facilities along your route. Prepare a pet emergency kit with food, water, medications, a leash, carrier, and vaccination records.
What to Do During a Hurricane
During a hurricane, your safety and that of your loved ones should be your top priority. By staying informed and following the right steps, you can minimize risks and ride out the storm safely. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of what to do during a hurricane.
Stay Indoors and Stay Safe
Staying indoors in a secure location is essential during a hurricane. Here’s how to ensure your safety.
- Choose an interior room on the lowest floor of your home that has no windows. A bathroom, closet, or hallway works best because it’s structurally more secure and away from potential flying debris.
- Avoid rooms with windows, glass doors, or skylights that can break under strong winds or impact from debris. Broken windows not only cause injuries but also allow wind and water to enter your home, making conditions inside more dangerous.
- If possible, reinforce interior doors leading to your safe room with heavy furniture or mattresses to create an additional barrier against debris or high winds.
- Have a mattress or thick blankets on hand to cover yourself in case of roof damage or flying debris. In extreme cases, you may need to use these for protection.
- Make sure to include personal protective gear like sturdy shoes, gloves, and protective eyewear in case you need to leave the safe room after the storm passes and navigate through debris.
Communication
Maintaining communication with the outside world is crucial during a hurricane. To ensure you stay connected, take these important steps:
- If your power goes out, conserve your battery by enabling low-power mode on your devices and turning off non-essential notifications, GPS, and background apps that drain battery life.
- Turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to conserve energy unless you are actively using them for communication.
- If you have access to a car charger, use it sparingly if the power is out to keep your phone charged. But remember to avoid running the car in a closed garage or space due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Send updates to family and friends as long as it is safe to do so. Text messages generally use less bandwidth than phone calls and are more likely to go through if cell networks are overwhelmed.
- Consider using apps like WhatsApp, Signal, or Facebook Messenger, which often use less data and can send messages over low-quality internet connections.
- Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio nearby to listen for official emergency broadcasts in case cellular networks or internet service become unreliable.
Power Outages
Power outages during hurricanes are common, and being prepared to handle them safely will reduce risks.
- Flashlights are your safest option for lighting during a power outage. Keep multiple flashlights in different rooms, and make sure you have plenty of spare batteries on hand.
- Avoid using candles or oil lamps. While they can provide light, they can also easily tip over or get knocked down by gusts of wind, causing a fire hazard.
- If candles are your only option, place them in sturdy, fireproof holders and keep them far away from curtains, paper, or any other flammable materials. Never leave them unattended, and extinguish them before you sleep.
Additional Tips for Safety During the Hurricane
- Stay away from floodwaters that may have entered your home or surrounding areas. Floodwaters can contain sewage, harmful chemicals, or dangerous wildlife, and can also hide live electrical wires.
- Avoid using tap water until you are certain it is safe, as floodwaters and damaged pipelines can contaminate the water supply. Stick to bottled water for drinking and food preparation.
- Remain indoors until local authorities give the all-clear signal, even if it seems like the storm has passed. In many cases, the calm in the center of the storm (the eye) can be deceiving, and severe weather conditions can resume unexpectedly.
After the Hurricane: Assessing Damage and Recovery
Once a hurricane has passed, it’s important to remain cautious while assessing the damage and planning for recovery. The aftermath of a storm can still pose serious risks, so it’s essential to take the right steps to stay safe, document damage, and begin repairs. Key actions to take include:
Initial Safety Checks
Before you step outside or inspect your home, ensure that you and your family remain safe by following these initial safety guidelines:
Avoid Downed Power Lines
Stay clear of any downed power lines. They may still be live, posing a risk of electrocution. Do not touch or go near them, and report any downed lines to your local utility company or emergency services immediately.
Be also aware that water (including puddles) near power lines can conduct electricity, so never step into water near fallen wires.
Steer Clear of Flooded Areas
Floodwaters are highly dangerous, often concealing debris, sharp objects, and contamination from chemicals or sewage. Avoid walking through standing water, especially if you can’t see the bottom.
If your home or yard has flooded, assume the water is unsafe and wait for local authorities to confirm when it is safe to return or use tap water. Do not attempt to return home if it is still surrounded by floodwaters until local officials have declared it safe.
Check for Unstable Structures
Inspect your home from a distance before entering. Look for signs of structural damage such as leaning walls, sagging roofs, or cracks in the foundation. If the building looks unstable, avoid entering and contact a professional to assess the situation.
If you do enter, avoid rooms with visible damage to ceilings or walls, and watch for waterlogged floors that might collapse. If you hear strange creaks or shifts, exit the house immediately.
Documenting Damage
Once you’re sure it’s safe, the next critical step is documenting all the damage to your home and belongings. This is important for filing insurance claims and getting the compensation you need for repairs.
Take Photos and Videos
Photograph everything before you start cleaning up or making temporary repairs. This includes damage to your home’s exterior (roof, walls, windows, doors) and interior (furniture, appliances, personal belongings). Make sure to capture all angles of the damage for thorough documentation. Take close-up shots of specific damages, as well as wide shots that show the overall state of the room or area.
For areas with water damage, document the depth of water by taking photos of standing water, waterlines on walls, or damaged items submerged in water. Video footage can also be helpful. Walk through your home and narrate the damage to provide additional details that may not be captured by photos alone.
Create a Detailed Inventory
Make a list of damaged items, including descriptions, approximate values, and purchase dates if possible. This will be useful when submitting your insurance claim. If you have receipts or previous documentation (like home appraisals or photos), gather those as well to strengthen your case.
Contacting Insurance and Repair Services
Once you’ve thoroughly documented the damage, it’s time to reach out to your insurance company and start the process of recovery.
Filing an Insurance Claim
Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the damage. Many insurance companies have emergency hotlines available for this purpose. Be prepared to provide the detailed photos, videos, and inventory you’ve gathered. These will be essential for your claim to be processed quickly and accurately.
Ask your insurance provider about temporary repairs you can make to prevent further damage. Many policies allow for reasonable repairs to protect your property, but be sure to keep receipts for any expenses. Keep track of all communication with your insurance company, including emails, phone calls, and claim numbers. Having a written record can be helpful if any issues arise.
Choosing Reputable Contractors for Repairs
Research contractors carefully. Ask for recommendations from friends, neighbors, or your insurance company. Look up reviews online, check with the Better Business Bureau, and ask to see proof of licenses and insurance. Don’t forget to ask for multiple estimates before choosing a contractor. This will help you understand the fair market price for the repairs needed and ensure you’re not being overcharged.
Avoid paying large sums upfront. A reputable contractor will not ask for more than a small deposit before starting work. Never pay the full amount until the work has been completed to your satisfaction. Be sure to ask about warranties or guarantees on the repair work. Good contractors will stand by their work and offer a guarantee for a certain period.
Keep a Repair Log
Throughout the repair process, keep a record of all repairs being done, including the costs, who is performing the work, and any receipts or invoices. This will be important for any insurance follow-ups or disputes.
Save all receipts for repair materials, services, or any temporary accommodations (like hotel stays) that you may need while your home is being repaired. Many insurance policies will reimburse you for these costs if they are related to the storm damage.
Long-Term Hurricane Preparedness
Hurricanes are powerful and unpredictable, but taking proactive steps can help you build resilience and protect your home and family in the long run. Preparing for future hurricanes goes beyond short-term emergency actions—it involves strengthening your home, staying engaged with your community, and keeping your preparedness plans up-to-date. To build long-term hurricane resilience, focus on these key strategies.
Upgrading to Hurricane-Resistant Windows
Impact-resistant windows are specifically designed to withstand high winds and flying debris. These windows have a reinforced, shatterproof layer that prevents them from breaking into sharp pieces, even if struck by projectiles. They may crack, but they won’t break apart, protecting the inside of your home from wind and water damage.
If upgrading all your windows isn’t feasible, consider installing storm shutters as an alternative. These shutters can be rolled down or placed over windows to protect them from debris during a storm.
Laminated glass windows are another option. These have multiple layers of glass bonded with a plastic layer in between, making them stronger than regular windows and better able to resist hurricane impacts.
Reinforcing Your Roof
Your roof is one of the most vulnerable parts of your home in a hurricane. Consider investing in hurricane straps or clips, which help secure the roof to the walls of your home, preventing it from being lifted off by high winds.
Ensure that your roof has been properly sealed to prevent water leaks. A water-resistant membrane under the shingles can prevent water from seeping in, even if the outer layer is damaged.
If you live in a high-risk hurricane area, upgrading to a metal or impact-resistant roof can provide better protection. These roofing materials are designed to withstand higher wind speeds and resist damage from debris.
Strengthening Doors and Garage Doors
Hurricane-rated doors are reinforced to withstand the high pressures and winds associated with hurricanes. Replacing standard entry doors with these stronger options can prevent damage to your home.
The garage door is another potential weak spot. A reinforced garage door can prevent wind from entering and creating pressure inside your home, which can cause severe structural damage. Many standard garage doors can be retrofitted with reinforcement kits to make them more secure.
Double-check the door frames and the way they are installed. Reinforcing the framing around doors with stronger bolts and materials ensures that the doors can withstand higher wind forces.
Review Your Emergency Plan
Update your family emergency plan each year, especially if there have been changes in your family structure (new children, elderly family members moving in, etc.) or your living situation. Ensure everyone knows the evacuation routes, shelter locations, and how to communicate during a storm.
Practice emergency drills with your family at least once a year, so everyone is familiar with what to do if a hurricane hits. Make sure that children know how to call for help and understand the importance of sticking to the family plan.
If you have pets, review their evacuation plan as well. Ensure that you have enough pet food, water, and any medications they might need during and after the storm.
Update Your Emergency Kit
At the start of each hurricane season, take time to check and refresh your emergency kit. Replace expired items like food, water, and batteries. Make sure you have enough supplies to last each family member at least three days.
Include any new essentials in your kit, such as updated medications, important documents, or extra supplies for infants, elderly family members, or pets.
Consider adding items to your kit that reflect new technologies or needs, such as portable solar chargers for devices, extra personal protective equipment (PPE), or even additional backup power solutions like a small generator or portable power bank.
Stay Informed on New Resources and Policies
Regularly review local government resources, evacuation routes, and hurricane shelters. These details can change year to year as cities upgrade infrastructure or respond to previous storm damage.
Stay up to date with insurance coverage. Review your homeowner’s insurance annually to ensure you have adequate coverage for wind and flood damage. Many standard insurance policies don’t cover flooding, so you may need to purchase a separate policy if you live in a flood-prone area.
Conclusion
Building long-term resilience against hurricanes involves more than preparing for a single storm. It requires developing a proactive strategy that enhances your home’s defenses, fosters community connections, and maintains readiness for future events. Invest in resilient home features, engage with local disaster preparedness initiatives, and review your plans annually to better safeguard your home and family from the enduring impacts of hurricanes.
