Are You Ready for Hurricane Season?
Take action TODAY to be better prepared when the worst happens. Understand your hurricane risk and start pre-season preparations now. Make sure you know how to interpret forecasts and alerts, and what to do before, during, and after a storm. Even if you feel ready, there may be additional things you can do or learn to be even better prepared.
Know Your Risk: Water and Wind
Find out and take action today on what types of water or wind hazards could occur where you live. Hurricanes are not just a coastal problem. Wind and water impacts can be felt hundreds of miles inland, and significant impacts can occur regardless of the storm’s strength. Know if you live in a flood-prone area or an evacuation zone, and identify structural vulnerabilities in your home.
Prepare Before Hurricane Season
The best time to prepare is BEFORE hurricane season begins. Avoid having to rush through life-saving preparations by waiting until it’s too late. Get your emergency supplies while shelves are still stocked and review your insurance policy ahead of time, as flood insurance requires a 30-day waiting period.
Understand the Forecast
Forecasts from the National Weather Service (NWS) can provide you with a lot of information about what to expect from the storm, including its path, rainfall amounts, wind speed, and more. There is a lot of information available in the days leading up to a storm, and it’s important to understand what it means.
Speed Up Preparations When a Storm Approaches
When a storm is forecast to impact your area, take immediate action to get ready. Ideally, long-term preparation steps, such as having disaster supplies and an evacuation plan, will already have been completed before hurricane season, when stores are fully stocked and time is on your side. When a storm threatens, there is much more to do.
Stay Safe During Storms
During a storm, whether you’ve evacuated or are sheltering at home, know what to expect from the hazards you might face. Stay alert, keep up with the latest forecasts and alerts, and continue listening to local authorities.
Use Caution After Storms
Hazards persist even after the skies turn blue. This is NOT the time to let your guard down. Nearly half of all hurricane-related deaths occur after the storm.
If you evacuated, only return home when told it’s safe.
Return home ONLY when authorities say it is safe. Check with local officials both where you are staying and at home before traveling.
Visit our website for more complete and detailed information on the upcoming hurricane season at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration U.S. Department of Commerce
Image: noaa.gov
