Southeast coastal living opens up all kinds of opportunities like ocean activities, beautiful beach days, and plenty of sunshine. However, along with these perks comes the need to be prepared for hurricane season.
Hurricane season in the southeast coastal region starts on June 1st and ends on November 30th. During this time, people must be cognizant of the possibility of hurricanes striking the region and must be prepared in case one does.
The best way to be ready for hurricane season is to understand what a hurricane is and its actions, create a hurricane plan and supply kit, and know what is necessary for different levels of hurricanes.
Understanding Hurricanes
Understanding what a hurricane is and how to read and respond to its forecast is a key component of hurricane readiness. Hurricanes are large, rotating, organized storms with characteristics that impact the whole region. These storms produce winds ranging from 74 to more than 230 mph, an intense amount of rainfall, and can cause widespread flooding.
If a hurricane is predicted to hit the area, it is important to pay attention to the National Weather Service or the National Hurricane Center to stay updated on the storm’s status. If the storm is heading in your direction, they can provide important updates, such as the severity of the storm, the estimated arrival time, and if you should evacuate or not.
Creating a Hurricane Plan
Creating a hurricane plan is essential for efficient preparation. This plan should include your evacuation route, where family members would meet up in an emergency, the locations of your important documents, pet needs, if you have special care for any family members, payment plans set up in case of power outages, and any other special considerations your family might have.
It is also important to take into consideration the severity of the hurricane. Depending on the strength and projected path of the storm, a plan will be developed from the National Weather Service to outline how to prepare for the storm and what to do once it arrives. Making sure your plan is up to date with all of these considerations can help ensure safety no matter the storm’s conditions.
For more information on hurricane plans, visit the Hurricane Safety website from the National Weather Service. It is important to stay up to date on safety protocols and to pay attention to the Hurricane Center during hurricane season.
Building a Hurricane Supply Kit
Having the supplies necessary to survive a hurricane is another essential part of hurricane preparation. Creating a hurricane supply kit that reflects your family’s needs is the best way to prepare for the season. Depending on the level of hurricane preparedness, different types of items should be included in the kit.
Essential Hurricane Supplies:
- First Aid Kit
- Non-Perishable Food and Water
- Flashlights and Batteries
- Portable Radio
- Any Important Medications
- Tools and Supplies (Tarp, Duct Tape, etc)
No matter when hurricane season strikes, having a plan and supplies in place can help ensure safety if a storm hits your area. Understanding hurricanes, creating a plan, and building a hurricane supply kit with the essentials is key for surviving the season.