A few months ago we discussed building a Family Emergency Binder and a Family Emergency Plan. Then, a few weeks ago, I wrote about what to do in case of power outages , wildfires, heatwaves, and tornadoes. Those posts discuss about how to protect your family from disasters and how to rebuild your life after an emergency. But now we’re entering the most dangerous hurricane months and it’s time to prepare for that threat.
When a hurricane is on the horizon, every hour counts. Preparation can mean the difference between staying safe and facing serious risk. Hurricanes bring high winds, heavy rain, storm surge, and flooding, and their impacts can last long after the storm has passed. Whether you live in a coastal area or hundreds of miles inland, having a plan and a kit ready ahead of time ensures you’re ready for the worst and can recover more quickly afterward.
🔗 How to Prepare for and Deal with Hurricanes
The Basics: What Is a Hurricane?
A hurricane is a powerful tropical storm system with sustained winds of at least 74 mph, capable of producing heavy rain, dangerous storm surge, flooding, and tornadoes. While they most often make landfall along coastlines, their impacts can reach far inland. As Hurricane Helene showed when it brought destructive flooding and wind to the mountains of North Carolina, hurricanes can maintain strength for hundreds of miles, causing damage well beyond the shore.
Hurricanes are measured using the Saffir–Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, which ranks storms from Category 1 (74–95 mph winds, minimal damage) to Category 5 (157+ mph winds, catastrophic damage). The higher the category, the more dangerous the winds, but it’s important to remember that even lower-category hurricanes can cause deadly flooding, storm surge, and tornadoes, especially in areas far from the coast.
Before Hurricane Season (sources mentioned are linked below)
Know your evacuation routes — Learn the routes and have multiple options. Local emergency management websites often provide maps.
Sign up for alerts — Use FEMA’s app, NOAA Weather Radio, and local alert systems for real-time updates.
Review your insurance coverage — Flood damage is typically not covered under standard homeowner’s insurance.
Prepare an emergency kit — Include food, water, medications, batteries, flashlights, and important documents in waterproof containers.
Make a family communication plan — Decide where to meet if you get separated and how to contact each other without cell service.
10 Ways to Prepare Your Home for Natural Disasters – Free downloadable guide by Lawrence & Associates Accident & Injury Law Firm
When a Hurricane Watch is Issued
(Possible hurricane conditions within 48 hours)
- Fill your car’s gas tank and check tires.
- Stock up on water (1 gallon per person per day for at least 3 days).
- Charge phones, portable chargers, and other essential electronics.
- Refill prescriptions and grab extra medical supplies.
- Bring inside anything that could blow away (patio furniture, lawn tools, etc.).
Build Your Emergency Kit
- Battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA Weather Radio.
- Flashlight & extra batteries.
- First-aid kit.
- Non-perishable food & water (at least 3 days per person).
- Sturdy shoes.
- Personal documents (IDs, insurance, medical records) in a waterproof bag.
- Medications, baby supplies, and pet essentials.
- Prepare for power outages.
Prepare Your Home
- Remove loose items from your yard (lawn furniture, grills, etc.).
- Reinforce windows and doors if possible.
- Keep your car fueled in case evacuation is needed.
- Prepare for power outages.
When a Hurricane Watch is Issued
(Possible hurricane conditions within 48 hours)
- Fill your car’s gas tank and check tires.
- Stock up on water (1 gallon per person per day for at least 3 days).
- Charge phones, portable chargers, and other essential electronics.
- Refill prescriptions and grab extra medical supplies.
- Bring inside anything that could blow away (patio furniture, lawn tools, etc.).
- Prepare for power outages.
When a Hurricane Warning is Issued
(Expected hurricane conditions within 36 hours)
- Follow evacuation orders immediately.
- If sheltering in place, stay away from windows and glass doors.
- Set your refrigerator/freezer to the coldest setting and keep doors closed.
- Have your emergency kit, cash, and IDs ready to grab at a moment’s notice.
- Prepare for power outages.
After the Storm Passes
- Stay tuned to official alerts before leaving shelter.
- Avoid floodwaters as they may be electrically charged or contain debris and contaminants.
- Use generators outside, at least 20 feet from windows, to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Document property damage with photos for insurance claims.
Trusted Hurricane Preparedness Resources
- National Hurricane Center (NOAA) – Forecasts, maps, and real-time updates.
- Ready.gov Hurricanes – Step-by-step planning guidance.
- American Red Cross Hurricane Safety – Safety checklists and recovery tips.
- FEMA Hurricane Preparedness – Federal disaster planning and response information.
- NOAA Weather Radio – Info on getting real-time weather warnings.
- Storm Prediction Center (SPC) – Daily severe weather outlooks and tornado threat levels.
- 10 Ways to Prepare Your Home for Natural Disasters – Free downloadable guide by Lawrence & Associates Accident & Injury Law Firm
