Hurricanes

Hurricanes are among the most powerful and destructive natural disasters faced by people living in coastal or storm-prone regions. These storms can bring extreme winds, heavy rainfall, flooding, storm surge, and widespread power outages. A single hurricane can disrupt entire communities, damage homes and infrastructure, and leave long-lasting emotional and financial impacts. For individuals and families, being prepared before a storm arrives is the most effective way to stay safe and reduce risk.

This section of The Emergency Guide is designed to help you prepare for, endure, and recover from hurricanes with confidence. Here, you will find practical checklists that outline essential supplies, tools, and household preparations, along with detailed guidance on how to strengthen your home, secure important documents, and protect pets and vulnerable family members. You will also learn how to create a clear emergency plan that covers evacuation routes, communication methods, and safety procedures.

During the storm itself, safety becomes the most important priority. This guide provides step-by-step information on how to shelter in place, conserve resources, stay informed through reliable updates, and avoid common hazards such as carbon monoxide poisoning, rising water, and unsafe debris. These instructions are written to support people in a variety of living situations, including homeowners, renters, apartment dwellers, and individuals with limited mobility.

Once the storm has passed, the recovery process begins. This section offers guidance for assessing damage safely, documenting losses for insurance, navigating assistance programs, and understanding the early steps required to rebuild or repair your home. You will also find information on mental and emotional recovery, since the aftermath of a hurricane can be just as stressful as the storm itself.

Whether you are preparing well ahead of time or responding in the days before landfall, this section exists to help you take informed action and protect yourself, your household, and your property. With the right preparations and resources, it is possible to face hurricane season with greater resilience and greater peace of mind.