In light of all the crazy storms that have been going on in Florida lately, many are dreading what the upcoming hurricane season may bring. Come what may, we’re going to have a better idea of what to expect and where. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced that it has upgraded its storm surge model. Future forecasts for high-impact weather, monitored by NOAA’s Probabilistic Storm Surge (P-Surge) model, will be more precise. That’s because the model used is now version 3.0.
What’s the significance?
If you live in a coastal area, you’re aware of the term “storm surge.” It’s the abnormal rise of water generated by the force of a storm and can cause extreme flooding along the coast.
In an interview with Ken Graham, NOAA’s National Weather Service director, he said, “We are seeing a sharp increase in catastrophic storm surge impacts in our coastal communities.” He went on to say that the model upgrade allows more accurate modeling and forecasting of the storm surge. This supports NOAA’s ultimate mission of protecting life and property.
It will have a positive effect on those living in the path of the storm to have more accurate details about the situation. Still, hearing that you’re on target to be either underwater or hit full force with the winds of the storm isn’t the time to start preparing.
Run down the list
If you’ve got a printed checklist that you go by, dig it out. It’s easy to overlook things when we are operating in mechanical mode. And, hurricane preparedness is one area that you don’t want to leave anything to chance. Sure, it could be that you won’t even see a storm this season, but, then, again…
Only time will give that answer, in the meantime, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
You can find preparedness checklists online. In fact, it’s Hurricane Prep Week over at NOAA’s website. It’s a great place to go if you are looking for preparedness information. They even provide a host of training videos which many find to be a helpful resource.
Plot your course
Being prepared to evacuate if instructed to do so by city officials is the utmost preparation priority. Make sure the evacuation routes haven’t been changed in your area. Then plot your course so you won’t have to deal with the stress of flying blind should you need to escape the storm.
Have your go bags prepared ahead of time as well. Items such as clothes, bedding, medications, money, and baby care items should all be included. It’s a good idea to have a first aid kit available too.
Stash supplies
In addition to having go bags prepared, you need to have everything on hand for weathering the storm at home. Having extra food on hand—types that don’t need cooking as the power is one of the first things to go it seems—and a supply of nutritious snacks and drinks is one of the top priorities.
It’s a lot easier to get the items your family needs while the shelves are still stocked. You should also have items such as an ample supply of water, batteries, a charger, a radio, and a supply of cash on hand. You’ll want to have toys and games available for the kids too. It will help pass the time. Lastly, if you have the means to obtain a generator, it could prove to be very beneficial in the event of a storm.
Create a catalog
Document your possessions by taking photos and creating a catalog of images. Store the folder in the cloud or on a drive that is kept away from the home. In the event of a catastrophe, having this information for insurance purposes will keep you a step ahead during a trying time.
It’s also a good idea to get an insurance checkup on your home itself. You should get on that as soon as possible though. Hurricane season begins on June 1st and flood insurance requires a 30-day waiting period.
Write out a contact list
We have our phones on hand at all times, but what if the battery dies and you have no way to charge it? Creating a handwritten contact list is a good idea so that you can remain connected to friends and loved ones. List emergency contacts, such as utilities and doctors, as well.
Strengthen your home’s integrity
Do all you can to provide ways for your home to withstand the impact of hurricane-force winds. Trimming your trees will cut down on the chance of flying debris. A tree limb hitting your home at speeds in excess of 100 miles an hour can do extensive damage. Any fruit on your trees should be picked as well. It’s a shame to lose the harvest, yes. However, each piece that goes airborne can hit with the force of a mini-missile!
You want to tie down anything that can be tied down! And check your pool screen fasteners as well. As the storm approaches, store any items in danger of flying away such as furniture and planters.
Some wait until there is actually a hurricane in the forecast before installing their storm shutters. Moreover, if you have windows that contain impact glass there is no need to worry about shutters at all. Those windows are pretty amazing!
Any outside wall openings should be sealed and re-enforcing the doors is a good idea too. The garage door is the most vulnerable part of your home. High winds make short work of them and once the wind obtains entrance to the house through such a large area, the results are usually catastrophic. There are door re-enforcement kits available for entryway and garage doors.
If you rent your home, remind your landlord about any hurricane preparation that needs to be completed.
Lastly, if you plan to board up your windows, getting your plywood now and keeping it on hand is the best route to take. It’s hard to find as storms draw near.
Preparedness vs panic
Waiting until a storm is barreling your way isn’t the time to prepare your home for hurricane season. Take time now to run through your checklist and gather your supplies. It’s going to make a huge difference in your stress level.
Having to deal with the immediate decisions brought on by an impending hurricane is stressful enough. You don’t need to add finding everyone’s everything to the mix. Right?