How to Stay Safe During a Hurricane: Prepping for Wind, Rain, and Storm Surge
Hurricane season can be a scary and dangerous time, especially if you live near the coast or in hurricane-prone areas. On Day 5 of Hurricane Preparedness Week, let’s focus on how to stay protected during the storm itself. Understanding the biggest dangers—strong winds, heavy rain, and storm surge—can help you keep your family safe and your supplies secure. Prepping ahead of time is the key to survival when a hurricane strikes.
Understanding the Three Biggest Hurricane Threats
When a hurricane hits, it can bring deadly forces all at once. Wind, rain, and storm surge are the three main threats you need to be ready for. Each brings its own risks, so your plan should cover them all.
- Wind: Powerful gusts can rip off roofs, knock down trees, and send debris flying through the air.
- Rain: Torrential downpours can cause sudden flash floods—even far inland.
- Storm Surge: This is a wall of ocean water pushed onto land, often causing the most deaths and destruction during hurricanes.
How to Prepare Your Home Before the Storm
Getting your home ready is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your supplies. Take action long before the hurricane arrives—don’t wait until the last minute! Here’s what every prepper should do:
- Secure outdoor items: Bring in garbage cans, lawn furniture, and anything else that could become a flying hazard.
- Reinforce windows and doors: Use storm shutters or plywood. If you don’t have shutters, thick plywood can help prevent glass from shattering.
- Clear gutters and drains: This helps keep water moving away from your home and reduces flooding risks.
- Trim trees and remove weak branches: This can keep limbs from falling on your roof or blocking escape routes.
Staying Safe During the Hurricane: Where to Shelter
When the winds pick up and rain starts, it’s important to shelter in the safest spot of your home. The best place is a small, windowless room on the lowest level, like a bathroom or closet. Stay away from all windows and glass doors—flying debris can break glass and cause injuries.
- Have mattresses or thick blankets nearby to protect yourself from debris.
- Keep your emergency kit in your shelter spot so you have everything you need if you can’t leave the room for a while.
Handling Flooding and Storm Surge
Flash floods can happen quickly during a hurricane. Never try to drive through flooded roads—just a few inches of water can sweep away a car or truck. Remember: “Turn around, don’t drown.” If you live in a storm surge evacuation zone, leave immediately when told. Storm surge can rise fast, trapping people who wait too long.
- Know your evacuation route ahead of time. Practice the route with your family before hurricane season.
- Pack a go-bag with water, snacks, medications, important papers, and a flashlight.
Keeping Informed When the Power Goes Out
During a hurricane, power and cell service can go out. Stay informed with a battery-powered weather radio so you can hear updates and warnings. Avoid using candles, which can start fires. Stick to flashlights and battery-powered lanterns for light.
- Store extra batteries for all your devices, including radios and flashlights.
- Have a backup power source like a portable charger for phones or a small solar panel.
Emergency Supplies Every Prepper Should Have
Your emergency kit can make all the difference during and after a hurricane. Keep your supplies in a sturdy waterproof bin in your shelter spot. Here’s what you should include:
- At least 3 days of water (one gallon per person per day)
- Non-perishable food for 3-7 days
- Medications and first aid supplies
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- Hygiene items and sanitation supplies
- Copies of important documents in a waterproof bag
- Cash (ATMs may not work)
- Multi-tool or basic tools
What to Do After the Hurricane Passes
Just because the storm sounds calm doesn’t mean it’s safe. Sometimes, the eye of the storm passes over and dangerous winds return quickly. Stay inside until local authorities say it’s safe to leave. Watch out for downed power lines, flooded roads, and unstable buildings.
- Check your family and supplies for damage or missing items.
- Use text messages to check in with family, since phone systems may be busy.
- Be ready for more storms, as another hurricane or after-storm dangers could be coming.
Key Prepping Lessons: Take Hurricanes Seriously
Hurricanes can be deadly, but prepping ahead of time gives you the best chance to survive. Listen to emergency officials and follow evacuation orders. Practice your family’s emergency plan before a storm is near. Stock up on supplies and keep your emergency kit ready all season. Your actions before and during a hurricane can save your life and the lives of your loved ones. Stay alert, stay safe, and always be prepared!