Hurricane En Route

Bracing for Impact: Before a Hurricane

When a hurricane is forecasted to strike, homeowners go through a whirlwind of emotions and preparations. The local news is reporting the incoming storm, neighbors are boarding up the windows, grocery stores running short on supplies. Gas station lines wrapped around the corner, these moments can seem unsettling, confusing, even a bit scary to go through alone. The days leading up to landfall are filled with uncertainty, urgency, and sometimes panic. With the potential for devastating winds, torrential rain, and catastrophic flooding, taking the right steps before the storm arrives can make all the difference. 

Tracking the Storm and Facing Uncertainty

As soon as meteorologists identify a potential hurricane threat, homeowners begin monitoring the storm’s path. This involves:

• Watching news updates and weather forecasts around the clock.

• Checking for changes in the storm’s intensity and trajectory.

• Deciding whether to stay and ride out the storm or evacuate.

Since hurricanes can shift direction unexpectedly, homeowners often feel stressed about whether their area will take a direct hit. It is critical to pay attention to live whether updates during these times.

Emergency Alerts and Evacuation Orders

Local and state officials issue alerts based on the storm’s projected impact:

• Hurricane Watch (issued 48 hours before expected tropical storm conditions) signals that dangerous weather is possible.

• Hurricane Warning (issued 36 hours before expected hurricane conditions) means the storm is imminent.

If an evacuation order is given, homeowners must make quick decisions about leaving their homes behind. This often leads to heavy traffic, crowded highways, and difficulties finding available lodging. It is best to make a decision ahead of time to avoid these things.

The Rush to Stock Up on Supplies

In the days before the hurricane, stores become packed with last-minute shoppers. Homeowners rush to buy:

• Bottled water and non-perishable food.

• Batteries, flashlights, and candles in case of power outages.

• Gasoline for vehicles and generators.

• Plywood, sandbags, and other materials to secure their homes.

• Gas powered generators in case of power outages

As the storm approaches, supplies often run out, leaving unprepared homeowners scrambling. When a hurricane warning is issued, it is best to start preparations or evacuations immediately.

Securing the Home Against the Storm

Homeowners take urgent steps to minimize hurricane damage, including:

• Boarding up windows and doors with plywood or storm shutters.

• Clearing the yard by securing outdoor furniture, grills, and loose items that could become projectiles.

• Checking the roof and gutters to prevent leaks and water damage.

• Placing sandbags around doors and low-lying areas to reduce flooding risks.

For those living near the coast or in flood-prone areas, protecting the home can feel like a race against time.

The Emotional Stress of Uncertainty

As the hurricane nears, emotions run high. Homeowners often experience:

• Fear of losing their home and belongings.

• Anxiety about whether they made the right choice to evacuate or stay.

• Frustration with long lines at stores, gas stations, and banks.

• Concern for family members, pets, and neighbors.

The wait for the storm to make landfall feels agonizing, especially with non-stop news coverage showing the storm’s destruction elsewhere.

Final Preparations Before the Storm Hits

As the hurricane gets closer, the final steps include:

• Filling bathtubs with water in case the water supply is disrupted.

• Turning refrigerators to the coldest setting to preserve food.

• Moving valuable items to higher ground to avoid flood damage.

• Charging phones and portable power banks.

• Gathering emergency contacts and important documents in a waterproof container.

At this stage, homeowners must hunker down or evacuate, knowing that the storm’s impact is now unavoidable.

Being proactive can help homeowners stay safe and minimize damage. Here’s what to do before hurricane season even begins:

✔️ Create a Hurricane Emergency Plan

• Identify evacuation routes and shelters.

• Discuss a communication plan with family members.

• Make arrangements for pets, as many shelters don’t allow animals.

✔️ Build an Emergency Kit

Stock up on essentials like:

• At least 3 days’ worth of food and water.

• First-aid supplies and necessary medications.

• Extra cash (since ATMs and credit card systems may be down).

• Flashlights, batteries, and a battery-powered radio.

✔️ Review Insurance Policies

• Ensure homeowners’ insurance covers hurricane and flood damage.

• Take photos of the home and belongings for documentation.

✔️ Strengthen Your Home

• Install storm shutters or impact-resistant windows.

• Reinforce garage doors and roofs.

• Elevate appliances if living in a flood-prone area.

The days before a hurricane are a time of stress, preparation, and difficult decisions. Residents must act quickly to protect their property and ensure their family’s safety. By preparing in advance, staying informed, and following evacuation orders when necessary, they can face the storm with greater confidence. While hurricanes are unpredictable, being prepared is the best defense against their destructive force.