According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Atlantic Hurricane Season typically runs from May 15 through November 30. This is a time when the conditions are ideal for forming severe storms broadly categorized as “tropical cyclones.”

The different types of cyclones are:

• Tropical Depressions
• Tropical Storms
• Hurricanes
  

Make no mistake. All of these storms are capable of causing severe damage and pose great risks to both life and property. When your local government issues warnings to prepare for these storms, you must take action immediately.

Here is what you can do now to prepare for a tropical cyclone.

1. Know Your Risk

When preparing for a hurricane, the first thing to do is to know and understand how a tropical storm or hurricane may affect you. Learn what types of hazards could happen where you live.

No matter their intensity or classification, all tropical cyclones pose similar dangers to life and property. The threats these storms pose include:

• Heavy rainfall
• Strong winds
• Storm surges
• Flooding
• Tornadoes
• Rip currents and rough surf
  

The NOAA has an in-depth write-up describing these threats. If a storm is approaching, you’ll need information to make the right decisions. That’s why it’s crucial to have a plan.

Now is also the time to determine if your home is in a “flood zone.” Many municipal governments have resources to help residents check if they are in an area prone to flooding or storm surges. If you are in a flood zone, you must plan to evacuate to a safe location before a storm arrives.

2. Have a Plan

A hurricane plan is essential to have in place so you can take decisive action once the weather warnings are issued. Develop these plans now—and communicate them to your family and loved ones.

• Develop evacuation plans: If you’re in a flood zone or an area designated as an “evacuation zone,” you need to plan where you will go when the storm warnings are issued. Your destination should be a sturdy, well-built structure away from a flood-prone area. Know multiple routes to this place, and take your pets into account.

   

• Have your emergency kit ready: Ensure you have enough supplies to last during and after a storm. Remember that you may be without electricity or power for days after a hurricane passes through your area. Use this list as a model to confirm your supplies.

   

• Review your documentation and insurance: Print and store your identification, insurance policies, and emergency contact information in a safe place. Then, review your insurance policies and determine what is or is not covered. Most home and renters insurance doesn’t cover flooding damage, so you will need a separate policy for those—and many have a 30-day waiting period before they go into effect.

   

• Create a communication plan: Include emergency contacts, like family and close friends, and share your hurricane plans with them. If you’re evacuating with others, determine a meeting place. Remember that Internet access may be unavailable during and after a storm.
  

3. Reinforce Your Property

Whether evacuating or sheltering in place, the most effective thing you can do before a storm hits is to prepare. Take steps now to mitigate the potential damage that a storm might do to your home and property.

Hurricane-force winds are notorious for causing flying debris and damaging property. To reduce the risk of storm damage, trim branches and trees around your home, secure loose items, and bring them inside. Have supplies ready to board up windows and doors. The NOAA has a guide on strengthening homes before a storm hits.

4. Stay Safe During and After a Storm

After preparing and executing your plans, you must shelter as the storm passes. Know what to expect during a tropical storm or hurricane.

Expect heavy rainfall and storm-like conditions before a tropical cyclone arrives. Some areas may already be flooding. Stay away from bodies of water and any flood-prone areas.

Also, do not drive your car through flooded roads. Doing so can cause you to lose control of your vehicle or flood the engine. Here are some vehicle safety tips for hurricanes.

You must remain in a sturdy shelter during and after a storm. The effects of a tropical cyclone will be felt even if you are hundreds of miles away from the coast.

After the storm passes, be vigilant of your surroundings. Watch for and stay away from downed power lines, trees, and standing bodies of water.

Also, keep your eyes and ears open for communications from local officials. You will need to be aware of boil water advisories and other safety announcements. Keep your phone or emergency radio close and charged so you receive updates as they become available.

For More Information

While the tips above will be helpful for your hurricane preparedness plans, it is by no means an exhaustive guide. For more information, refer to the links mentioned above.

You can also find more information in the hurricane preparedness sections hosted by your local government. Run an Internet search which includes the phrase “hurricane preparedness” and either your home county or town for more information.