Riding Out the 2023 Hurricane Season
Wednesday June 7, 2023
Riding Out the Storm: 2023 Hurricane Predictions
Hurricane season started June 1 and will last until November 30. With high winds, harsh rains, and the potential for destruction and flooding, it is imperative to be prepared against these storms.
According to NOAA, the 2023 hurricane season is panning out to be “near-normal.” Although normal may sound safe, historically, hurricanes in the Atlantic Ocean have proven catastrophic to many coastal states.
What are some good ways to prepare for a hurricane?
1. Stay In the Know
Knowledge is power during hurricane season. Following local news stations and The Weather Channel on social media is beneficial for quick and informative news. As for weather predictions and official warnings, keeping up with the National Hurricane Center is a solid choice. Like social media, newsletters are easy to stay in the know and gather important information about potential weather risks.
2. Create an Emergency Plan
Having an emergency plan before a storm is a smart and effective way to keep you and your family safe. Reviewing meeting locations, evacuation routes, and zones, and assigning roles are vital parts of an emergency plan. Make sure each member can access emergency supplies and necessary medication in case of an event. Plans can decrease anxiety and allow for quicker responses.
3. Gather Supplies
Having a well-equipped emergency kit is a large factor in staying safe during hurricane season. important items to keep in your kit are non-perishable food, water, batteries, flashlights, first aid kits, medication, radios, and cash. If you need an emergency kit for hurricane season, ProPac has you covered with our Disaster Kit. As for individual items, sandbags and tarps are useful during storm season.
4. Protect Your Property
Taking protective precautions against storms can decrease the destruction of your home. Trimming tree branches and cutting tall trees is a great first step in preparing against harsh winds. Whether it's plywood or storm shutters, having protection on your windows is another step in protecting your property. Outdoor furniture and tools should be properly stored and secured before strong winds occur.
5. Be Ready for Power Outages
Power outages are common during hurricanes so being prepared for the dark and an old fashion hunkering down is important. Generators are a great resource as are solar panels during power disruptions. To stay in the know during these outages, prepare beforehand by charging your electronics and investing in portable chargers. Flashlights are another simple yet effective tool.
6. Prepare for Evacuation
If local authorities advise evacuation, take the message seriously. Have a “go bag” prepared to leave as swiftly and safely as possible. Items to keep in this bag include clothing, non-perishable foods, toiletries, important medications, papers, and cash. ProPac’s Disaster Preparedness Backpack Kit is a dependable choice for times of evacuation.
7. Consider Your Emotions
With storms comes uncertainty and with uncertainty, comes anxiety and emotions. These completely normal reactions can be difficult during high-pressure scenarios. Understanding how to self-regulate your feelings and thoughts can help during intense situations.
In conclusion, organizing, learning, and preparing for hurricane season can make a difference in your overall safety. Learning the risks before the storm can better prepare you for during and after.
Following these steps can help safeguard your loved ones, your property, and yourself from danger when these storms strike.
Although storms can be unpredictable, preparing and readying yourself can improve your chances of staying safe.