Be ready for hurricane season. Take action TODAY to be better prepared for when the worst happens. Understand your risk from hurricanes, and begin pre-season preparations now. Make sure you understand how to interpret forecasts and alerts, and know what to do before, during, and after a storm. You are encouraged to prepare as hurricane season begins on June 1st.
There is a chance of 12 to 17 named storms this year, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predictions for the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season which officially runs from June 1 to November 30. Five to nine storms could become hurricanes and we may see as many as four major hurricanes this year. The upcoming Atlantic hurricane season is expected to be less active than recent years, partly due to the possibility of an El Nino developing which can lessen Atlantic hurricane activity.
Decide how to best protect your home from high winds and flooding. Plan how you will evacuate and how you will shelter safely at home. Take three important steps ─ get a kit, make a plan and be informed. Learn more here.
Some people may need extra attention during an emergency. For them, planning ahead is crucial. And don’t forget your pets ─ they depend on you for their safety.
STEPS FOR ELDERS
Understand how your medical, physical and cognitive needs may affect your ability to respond to an emergency.
Consider what you may need if the power goes out, you have to stay home for two weeks or more, or if you have to evacuate.
What help do you need and who can help you.
Identify helpers ─ include family, friends, neighbors, caregivers and care providers to build your network of people who may be able to assist you or that you can assist.
Meet with your helpers to assess your needs and plan together.
If you require power to operate medical devices or keep medicines cold, make a back-up plan.
Keep at least 30 days of medications and extra items such as a cane or eyeglasses. Plan for your food needs if you follow a special diet.
Get batteries to back up devices that require power.
Keep an up-to-date list of medical information ─ conditions, allergies, medications, prescription records, doctors and insurance cards.
Prepare for Hurricanes
Know Your Hurricane Risk
Hurricanes are not just a coastal problem. Find out how rain, wind, water and even tornadoes could happen far inland from where a hurricane or tropical storm makes landfall. Start preparing now.
Make an Emergency Plan
Make sure everyone in your household knows and understands your hurricane plans. Include the office, kids’ day care, and anywhere else you frequent in your hurricane plans. Ensure your business has a continuity plan to continue operating when disaster strikes.
Know your Evacuation Zone
You may have to evacuate quickly due to a hurricane if you live in an evacuation zone. Learn your evacuation routes, practice with your household and pets, and identify where you will stay.
Follow the instructions from local emergency managers, who work closely with state, local, tribal, and territorial agencies and partners. They will provide the latest recommendations based on the threat to your community and appropriate safety measures.
Recognize Warnings and Alerts
Have several ways to receive alerts. Download the FEMA app and receive real-time alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five locations nationwide. Sign up for community alerts in your area and be aware of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA), which require no sign up.
Those with Disabilities
Identify if you may need additional help during an emergency if you or anyone else in your household is an individual with a disability.
Review Important Documents
Make sure your insurance policies and personal documents, such as ID, are up to date. Make copies and keep them in a secure password-protected digital space.
Strengthen your Home
De-clutter drains and gutters, bring in outside furniture, and consider hurricane shutters.
Get Tech Ready
Keep your cell phone charged when you know a hurricane is in the forecast and purchase backup charging devices to power electronics.
Help your Neighborhood
Check with neighbors, senior adults, or those who may need additional help securing hurricane plans to see how you can be of assistance to others
Gather Supplies
Have enough supplies for your household, include medication, disinfectant supplies and pet supplies in your go bag or car trunk. You may not have access to these supplies for days or even weeks after a hurricane.
Stay Safe During a Hurricane
Stay Informed
Pay attention to emergency information and alerts.
If you live in a mandatory evacuation zone and local officials tell you to evacuate, do so immediately.
Dealing with the Weather
Determine how best to protect yourself from high winds and flooding.
Take refuge in a designated storm shelter or an interior room for high winds.
Go to the highest level of the building if you are trapped by flooding. Do not climb into a closed attic. You may become trapped by rising flood water.
Do not walk, swim or drive through flood waters. Turn Around. Don’t Drown! Just six inches of fast-moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
·
