The recent devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, which hit Florida and the East Coast in late September 2024, serves as a stark reminder of the destructive power of nature. As a Category 4 hurricane, Helene made landfall near Perry, Florida, with winds up to 140 mph, leaving widespread flooding, catastrophic damage, and power outages for millions. Such events emphasize the importance of being prepared before, during, and after a storm. Families can protect themselves, mitigate damage, and recover quickly with the proper steps.
This article provides practical, straightforward actions to prepare for severe weather events, like hurricanes, based on lessons learned from Hurricane Helene. Along with preparation tips, we'll explore the effects of Helene and highlight key strategies that worked for many households.
Before the Storm: How to Prepare
Preparation is the key to reducing the risks posed by hurricanes. Taking action early ensures your family and property are as safe as
possible.
1. Create an Emergency Plan
The first step in any emergency preparedness plan is to ensure every family member knows what to do. Establish communication protocols if you get separated, identify safe meeting spots, and assign responsibilities to each family member, such as shutting off utilities or gathering emergency supplies.
2. Build an Emergency Kit
A comprehensive emergency kit is essential. It should include enough supplies to last at least 72 hours. Your kit should include:
- Non-perishable food and water (at least one gallon per person per day)
- Flashlights, extra batteries, and a hand-crank radio
- First aid supplies, prescription medications, and hygiene items
- Important documents (birth certificates, insurance policies) in a waterproof container
- Cash, as ATMs and card payment systems may be unavailable after the storm
- Extra clothing, blankets, and shoes
3. Know Your Evacuation Routes
Living in a hurricane-prone area means knowing when to evacuate quickly and how to get to safety. Ensure your family knows the nearest evacuation routes and shelters, and keep your vehicle’s gas tank full during hurricane season. If local authorities issue an evacuation order, follow it immediately.
4. Secure Your Property
Protecting your home involves preparing the exterior and interior for hurricane-force winds, flying debris, and potential flooding. Here are the steps to take:
- Install storm shutters or board up windows with plywood.
- Clear your yard of any loose items, such as outdoor furniture, grills, and planters.
- Trim trees and shrubs to prevent branches from breaking and causing damage.
- Reinforce garage doors, as they are more vulnerable to wind damage.
- Check the roof for loose shingles and make necessary repairs to prevent leaks.
5. Check Your Insurance
Review your homeowners’ or renters’ insurance policy to ensure it covers hurricane damage, including flood insurance, which is not typically included in standard policies. Keep an updated inventory of your belongings, along with receipts or photos, to make the claims process smoother if damage occurs.
During the Storm: Staying Safe
Once the hurricane arrives, taking shelter and staying updated on emergency notifications is critical.
1. Stay Indoors
The safest place to be during a hurricane is inside a sturdy structure. Stay away from windows and glass doors, and take shelter in a small, windowless interior room, closet, or hallway on the lowest level of your home.
2. Listen to Emergency Broadcasts
Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio nearby to listen for updates from local authorities. Follow instructions regarding any changes in the storm’s path, as well as evacuation orders or other safety alerts.
3. Avoid Electrical Appliances
Unplug electrical devices and avoid using corded phones or appliances, as lightning strikes are common during hurricanes. Use flashlights for light instead of candles to
reduce the risk of fire.
4. Avoid Flooded Areas
Flooding is one of the deadliest aspects of hurricanes, especially in low-lying areas. Stay inside until the storm has passed, and never attempt to walk or drive through flooded streets, as the water may be deeper than it appears and carry dangerous currents.
5. Watch for the Eye of the Storm
Be aware that when the eye of the storm passes over, the winds may briefly calm, giving the illusion that the hurricane is over. Do not leave your shelter until the local
authorities declare the all-clear, as dangerous winds will resume when the eye passes.
After the Storm: Recovery and Safety
The aftermath of a hurricane can be as dangerous as the storm itself. Taking proper precautions during the recovery phase is vital to ensuring the safety of your family and home.
1. Check for Injuries
Once the storm has passed, check yourself and your family members for injuries. Administer first aid if necessary and seek medical attention for any serious injuries.
2. Inspect Your Home
Before entering your home, check for visible damage, such as downed power lines, gas leaks, structural damage, or flooding. Avoid walking through standing water, as it may
be contaminated or hide sharp debris.
3. Document the Damage
Take photographs or video of any damage to your home and property for insurance purposes. Keep detailed notes about the damage to provide to your insurance adjuster. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to start the claims process.
4. Stay Away from Floodwaters
Floodwaters often contain hazardous materials, such as sewage, chemicals, and debris. Avoid contact with standing water and stay away from rivers, streams, or any area that may experience flash flooding in the days following the storm.
5. Use Caution When Cleaning Up
When clearing debris or making repairs, wear protective clothing, such as gloves, boots, and safety glasses. Be cautious of downed power lines, broken glass, and sharp
objects. If possible, enlist the help of professionals for significant repairs.
6. Beware of Mold
Moisture left behind by flooding or leaks can quickly lead to mold growth. Dry out wet areas as soon as possible, using fans and dehumidifiers to help remove moisture. If mold growth worsens, consider hiring a professional to handle the cleanup.
7. Help Your Neighbors
Community resilience is critical in the aftermath of a hurricane. Check on your neighbors, particularly the elderly or those with disabilities, to see if they need assistance. Sharing resources and working together can speed up recovery efforts for everyone.
Hurricane Helene: A Devastating Reminder
Hurricane Helene, a Category 4 storm that struck Florida’s Big Bend region, wreaked havoc along its 800-mile path from Florida to the Carolinas. The storm’s powerful winds, reaching 140 mph, caused widespread devastation. Massive storm surges flooded coastal communities, leaving entire neighborhoods submerged. Over 4 million people across Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas lost power, and more than 200 people lost their lives in the storm and its aftermath.
Helene also demonstrated the growing dangers posed by higher sea levels and warmer waters, fueling the storm’s intensity. The economic toll is expected to surpass $34 billion, making it one of the most costly hurricanes in recent history.
Communities along the East Coast are still grappling with the long recovery process. The disaster underscores the importance of being fully prepared for future storms, particularly as climate patterns continue to make extreme weather more frequent and severe.
A Practical Guide to Preparedness
Preparation can make all the difference in times of crisis. In his new book, “The Practical Guide to Family Preparedness: Easy, Simple, and Cost-Effective Strategies for Every Home to Ensure Peace of Mind During a Crisis,” author Scott C. Pyron offers a wealth of knowledge on how families can protect themselves during emergencies. From building emergency kits to developing detailed evacuation plans, Pyron’s guide provides straightforward, actionable strategies every household can follow to ensure safety and peace of mind when disaster strikes.
The book is available on Amazon.com here. Whether preparing for a hurricane, flood, or any other crisis, this guide will help you properly safeguard your family and home.
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Sources:
- NOAA National Weather Service: Hurricane Helene Reports
- FEMA: Helene’s Impact and Recovery Plans
- The Weather Channel: Hurricane Helene Recap and Aftermath