Hurricane prep 101: Updated with COVID-19 supplies
Hurricane Preparedness 101
NOAA, The National Weather Service / National Hurricane Center
Hurricane Season in the Atlantic runs from June 1st until November 30thA hurricane is a type of storm called a tropical cyclone, which forms over tropical or subtropical waters. Tropical cyclones with maximum sustained surface winds of less than 39 miles per hour (mph) are called tropical depressions. Those with maximum sustained winds of 39 mph or higher are called tropical storms. When a storm's maximum sustained winds reach 74 mph, it is called a hurricane. The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale (SSHWS) is a 1 to 5 rating, or category, based on a hurricane's maximum sustained winds. The higher the category, the greater the hurricane's potential for property damage.
- Category One 74–95 mph
- Category Two 96–110 mph
- Category Three 111–129 mph
- Category Four 130–156 mph
- Category Five ≥ 157 mph
Disaster Supply Kit
- Water - at least 1 gallon daily per person for 3 to 7 days
- Freezer - set to coldest setting
- Freeze gallon size ziplock bags and gallon water jugs with water, leaving at least 2 inches room in container for expansion when frozen
- Move frozen blocks to refrigerator when power goes out
- Food - at least enough for 3 to 7 days
- non-perishable packaged or canned food / juices
- foods for infants or the elderly
- shelf stable juice and milk boxes
- snack foods, crackers & chips
- non-electric can opener / bottle opener / corkscrew
- cooking tools / fuel
- paper plates / plastic utensils / plastic cups - Blankets / Pillows, etc.
- Clothing - seasonal / rain gear/ sturdy shoes
- First Aid Kit / Medicines / Prescription Drugs
- Special Items - for babies and the elderly
- Toiletries / Hygiene items / Moisture wipes
- Rechargeable Portable Fan - make a breeze while power is out (Amazon has some)
- Flashlight / Batteries
- Radio - Battery operated and NOAA (weather radio)
- Telephones - Fully charged cell phone with extra batteries
- A traditional (not cordless) telephone set. If your home phone works over the internet or cable, it won't work when power goes out.
- Cash (with some small bills) and Credit Cards - Banks and ATMs may not be available for extended periods
- Keys - house, safety deposit box, car, shed, storage unit
- Toys, Books and Games
- Important documents - in a waterproof container or watertight resealable plastic bag - insurance, medical records, bank account numbers, Social Security card, proof of COVID-19 vaccination, utility bill for proof of residence, etc.
- Computer - charge up laptop and notebook, and take chargers
- Camera - charge camera, take cables, use to photograph damage for insurance claims, charger
- Tools - keep a set with you during the storm
- Hammer, Saw, Axe - if you think you will need to climb onto roof in a flood
- Screwdrivers, screws, nails
- Duct tape and plastic sheeting to cover openings
- Extra zipper lock bags and trash bags
- Vehicle - fuel tanks filled, tires checked
- Pet care items
- Proper identification / immunization records / medications
- Ample supply of food and water
- Carrier or cage
- Muzzle and leash
Coronavirus 😷 items for your checklist:
- Disposable face masks - plan for at least 2 masks per person a day
- Disposable gloves
- Liquid or bar soap
- Hand sanitizer - at least 60% alcohol
- Bleach
- Medication
- Proof of COVID-19 vaccination ?
- Paper towels
- Toilet paper
History shows a lack of hurricane awareness and preparation are common threads among all major hurricane disasters. By knowing your vulnerability and what actions you should take, you can reduce the effects of a hurricane disaster. The NWS has a preparation page on their site.
Live near the coast? Find Your Evacuation Zone on flash.org (PDF)
Hurricane Hazards
Hurricane Information
You should be able to answer the following questions before a hurricane threatens:
- What are the Hurricane Hazards?
- What does it mean to you?
- What actions should you take to be prepared?
Resources
Read more and get updates via nhc.noaa.gov
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