With Hurricane Helene poised to make landfall along the Florida Gulf Coast near Tallahassee, now is the time to take action. Expected to hit Thursday night, the storm will bring severe weather conditions across several states.
Hurricane- and tropical storm-force winds, along with torrential rainfall, are predicted as Helene moves north. The National Weather Service anticipates up to 18 inches of rain in the Carolinas, while heavy rainfall will saturate the soil, potentially causing significant disruption.
Night-Time Preparations
In most areas, the storm’s severity will peak overnight, necessitating specific preparations. By 2 or 3 a.m., winds may reach 50 to 60 miles per hour, so measures should be taken before going to bed. According to CNN Supervising Meteorologist Brandon Miller, keeping devices charged and nearby is crucial.
High winds and rain may lead to power outages. Miller advises selecting a room away from tall trees to sleep in, as saturated soil could cause trees to topple. For additional safety, he recommends sleeping on the ground floor in an interior room, away from windows, to protect against potential tornadoes.
Emergency Shelters and Go Bags
Knowing the location of the nearest emergency shelters is vital. The Red Cross offers an updated map for this purpose. Equally important is a packed ‘go bag’ or box, containing essentials. This allows for a quick departure if necessary.
Essential items for a ‘go bag’ include personal identification, important documents, and basic supplies. Digital copies of documents, such as a photograph of your driver’s license, can be particularly useful. Have a backup of these files as a precaution.
Securing Outdoor Items
Outdoor items can become hazardous projectiles in high winds. Ensure outdoor furniture is stowed away and plants are brought inside. Aim to secure any loose objects.
You should also consider purchasing nonperishable food supplies. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) advises keeping a three-day supply of food for each person and pet.
When choosing grocery staples, select items that do not require refrigeration and can be eaten without cooking. For instance, grind coffee beans in advance or opt for instant coffee. Additionally, stock up on shelf-stable milk and individual condiment packets.
First-Aid and Tools
A basic first-aid kit is a must-have. The Red Cross provides recommendations on what to include. Basic tools are also essential; items like a Swiss Army Knife, wrench, or saw can be invaluable.
Locate all your flashlights and ensure they have fresh batteries. Fully charging phones, tablets, and computers is crucial. Prepare for potentially extended power outages by downloading movies and TV shows to a tablet for added convenience. Also, have a backup power supply, such as a power bank, along with your device charging cables in the car.
Vehicle and Generator Preparations
Ensuring your vehicle is ready is another key step. Fill your car’s fuel tank or charge your electric vehicle. Additionally, if you plan to use a backup generator, confirm that it is serviced and that you have sufficient fuel to run it.
Never operate a generator indoors to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Position it outside, away from windows, and follow safety guidelines. Familiarise yourself with safe practices for using backup power to prevent accidents.
Staying Informed
Having a reliable source of emergency information is paramount. FEMA suggests battery-powered or hand-cranked radios as they do not rely on electricity.
If your internet connection is weak, utilise low-bandwidth sites. Ensuring multiple sources of information can help you stay updated during the storm’s progression and aftermath.
It is essential to be knowledgeable about the potential impacts and needed precautions. Staying well-informed enhances safety and preparedness during severe weather conditions like Hurricane Helene.
Final Arrangements
Final steps include reviewing your emergency plans and ensuring all household members are familiar with them. Double-checking your supplies and making last-minute preparations can make a significant difference in safety.
By staying proactive and prepared, you can mitigate the risks posed by Hurricane Helene.
Hurricane Helene’s potential impact requires thorough preparation. Taking time to secure your home, gather supplies, and make emergency arrangements could be lifesaving.
Staying informed and ready ensures better safety for you and your family. As Helene approaches, effective preparation is your best defence.
