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Hurricanes

Table of Contents

Introduction

Hurricanes are among the most destructive weather hazards, capable of devastating entire regions for months or years. With powerful winds, storm surge, inland flooding, and even tornadoes, they threaten lives and infrastructure on a massive scale.

The danger is not limited to the coast—hurricanes can cause catastrophic flooding and tornadoes hundreds of miles inland. While they bring widespread destruction, they also provide advance warning. Preparation and understanding how to act at every stage are the keys to survival.

This guide brings together recommendations from the National Weather Service, FEMA, and the Red Cross, combined with real-world lessons from past disasters.

Hazard Types

Storm Surge
Often the deadliest aspect of hurricanes. Seawater is pushed ashore by hurricane winds, creating massive coastal flooding. Surge can destroy homes, roads, and entire neighborhoods.
High / Extreme Winds
Hurricane-force winds damage roofs, topple trees, break windows, and turn debris into dangerous projectiles. Windborne debris can cause severe injury or death.
Inland Flooding
Heavy rainfall over several days can flood rivers and urban areas far from the coast. Inland flooding is a major source of hurricane fatalities.
Tornadoes
Hurricanes frequently spawn tornadoes, sometimes hundreds of miles inland, adding another layer of destruction.
Power Outages
Widespread and long-lasting outages are common. Loss of power disrupts cooling, heating, communications, water supply, and medical equipment.
Contaminated Water
Floodwaters may contain sewage, chemicals, and hazardous debris, posing serious health risks.
Blocked Roads and Isolation
Debris and floodwaters cut off transportation, delaying emergency response and aid.
Mental Health Strain
Survivors often experience trauma, stress, and anxiety in the aftermath of prolonged displacement or loss.

Preparation

Before the event

  • Identify your risk zone: know if you are in a storm surge or evacuation zone. Sign up for local emergency alerts.

  • Create a family hurricane plan: evacuation routes, shelter options, communication methods, and pet/medical needs.

  • Assemble an emergency supplies kit: water, food (3+ days), flashlights, batteries, radios, medications, documents, and pet supplies.

  • Practice evacuation routes. Plan multiple ways out, including safe shelters or locations with friends and family.

  • Strengthen your home: install storm shutters or pre-cut plywood, trim trees, secure outdoor items, clean gutters, and reinforce garage doors.

  • Store critical documents (insurance, ID, deeds, passports) in waterproof containers.

  • Keep extra cash available—ATMs may not function during outages.

  • If you need help evacuating, register with local authorities or coordinate with friends/family before storm season.

Checklist essentials

NOAA Weather Radio, NWS alerts, local emergency apps.
Evacuation plan, family contacts, and local shelter information.
Go-bag: water, shelf-stable food, flashlight, batteries, chargers, medications, documents.
Sturdy shoes, clothing, rain gear.
First aid kit, hygiene supplies, N95 masks.
Pet food, leashes/carriers, and vaccination records.
Extra cash, fuel for vehicles, and signal devices (whistle, flares).

During the event

  • Follow all local instructions immediately.

  • Evacuate promptly if ordered—do not wait until conditions deteriorate.

  • If sheltering at home: choose a small, windowless, interior room on the lowest floor not at risk of flooding (never coastal basements).

  • Keep your go-bag, food, and water within reach.

  • Stay away from all windows—flying debris is deadly.

  • Do not use elevators.

  • Remain inside until authorities give the all clear. The calm "eye" is temporary, and the strongest winds follow.

  • If flooding occurs, move to higher floors. Never walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters: “Turn Around, Don’t Drown!”

  • Monitor updates constantly—many injuries happen in the aftermath from hidden hazards.

After the event

  • Return only when authorities declare it safe.

  • Watch for downed power lines, gas leaks, and unstable structures.

  • Avoid floodwaters—they may contain sewage, sharp debris, or hidden dangers.

  • Document damage with photos and videos, but only when safe.

  • Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning: never run generators, grills, or stoves indoors.

  • Restock supplies and prepare for continued power or water shortages.

  • Check on neighbors, especially elderly or medically fragile individuals.

  • Provide emotional support to children and family members coping with trauma.

Special Populations

Children

Explain plans clearly, pack comfort items in go-bags, and supervise closely.

Older Adults

Account for medications, mobility challenges, and transportation for evacuation.

People with Disabilities / Medical Needs

Register with authorities in advance. Plan for backup power and accessible evacuation.

Businesses

Prepare for shutdown, secure facilities, back up data, and ensure staff evacuation plans.

Pets

Never leave pets behind. Pack food, carriers, medical records, and identification.

Quick Reference Tables

Hurricane Alert Guidance
Alert Level Meaning Actions
Hurricane Watch Conditions possible within 48 hours Review plan, finalize kit, secure property
Hurricane Warning Conditions expected within 36 hours Evacuate or shelter immediately, complete all prep
Mandatory Evacuation Immediate risk Leave now via safe routes, follow official guidance
All Clear Officially declared safe Return home only when authorized

Key Reminder
Storm surge and floodwaters kill. Know your evacuation zone and routes. Turn Around, Don’t Drown.

Additional notes/thoughts

Before hurricane season, ask yourself:

  • Do I know my evacuation zone and at least two routes out?

  • Is my go-bag ready and my vehicle fueled?

  • Am I prepared for prolonged outages of power and water?

  • Do I have reliable ways to communicate after the storm?

  • Has my family practiced hurricane drills together?

  • Who in my community may need extra help—and how can I assist?

Hurricanes provide days of advance notice. Those who prepare thoroughly are the ones who survive and recover most effectively.

References

Image Credits

https://unsplash.com/photos/barber-shop-located-in-ninth-ward-new-orleans-louisiana-damaged-by-hurricane-katrina-in-2005-ha3hueRV3xM

https://unsplash.com/photos/a-car-parked-in-front-of-a-fallen-tree-dC2fbPZ8Oec

https://www.pexels.com/photo/small-settlement-cottages-with-destroyed-roofs-after-hurricane-4170441/

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