Editor’s note: This article was adapted from a MyCG piece previously published on June 1, 2023 and updated to reflect the latest federal resources. The original piece may be accessed here.
This year, hurricane season (in the Atlantic and Central Pacific) is expected to last from June 1 to November 30. The Eastern Pacific hurricane season began May 15 and ends November 30. MyCG has assembled some tips and resources to help you and your families prepare for any hurricanes that may come your way. Become familiar with www.ready.gov and the Center for Disease Control’s hurricane guide. Both sites offer preparedness tips as well as how to weather a storm, and what to do upon returning home if you are evacuated.
Prepare
Make sure you know your risk of being impacted by a hurricane. Hurricanes don’t just impact coasts; they can also impact inland areas. If you are in the hurricane track, know how your area may be impacted by high winds, tornados, and/or inland flooding.
Plan
Make sure you have a plan that your family understands. Save relevant emergency phone numbers on your phone and write them down in an accessible place. Map- out routes to the closest shelter and sign up for emergency alerts. If you own pets, consider whether you need to locate shelters or friends or family outside of the area who may be able to help in case of an emergency. Don’t forget to charge your phone and any backup batteries/charging pads you have.
Review these key resources before the storm hits:
Prep your car and your go bag
Make sure you have all the essential supplies you and your family will need, including food, water, medicine, personal items, extra batteries, flashlights, and other power sources, a fire extinguisher, and key documents like driver’s licenses or passports.
If you have a car, fill up the tank and make sure your car is in your garage or covered. Leave an emergency kit in your car in case you must leave quickly. If you don’t have a car, think about alternate ways to evacuate, or contact local authorities for more information.
Talk to your family and stay in the loop
Though explaining hurricanes and natural disasters can be scary for children, it is important to make sure you’re all on the same page about your emergency plan. Check news and updates about the storm on TV, the radio, or on your phone at regular intervals to make sure you’re in the know.
You should also consult Ready.gov’s checklist to ensure that you and your family are prepared.
Get ready to stay or evacuate
Always follow instructions from local, state, and national authorities about whether to evacuate.
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Resources: