Hurricane Katrina damaged or destroyed over one million homes across the Gulf Coast in 2005. 1,833 lives were lost. Hurricanes (we call them ‘cyclones’ in Australia) are devastating natural disasters that can cause irreparable damage to your home and put your family’s life in danger. And with a warming climate, the frequency of ferocity of hurricanes is worsening. Yet only 45% of adults in the US are natural disaster prepared. Knowing how to prepare your home for a hurricane is increasingly critical to protect yourself and your property. In this 5 minute read, we explain everything to have, know and do to minimise the devastating impacts of a hurricane on your home and family.

Hurricanes: what you need to know

5 hurricane statistics to motivate your preparations

People living in hurricane-prone areas should be aware of the following key hurricane statistics:

1. Frequency: On average, the Atlantic basin experiences 12 named storms, 6 hurricanes, and 3 major hurricanes (Category 3 or higher) each year. However, recent years have seen an increase in activity. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the 2020 Atlantic hurricane season had a record-breaking 30 named storms.
2. Intensity: Hurricanes are becoming more intense due to climate change. The International Panel on Climate Change says the proportion of hurricanes reaching Category 4 or 5 has increased over the past few decades.
3. Storm Surge: Storm surge is often the most deadly aspect of a hurricane. A Category 4 or 5 hurricane can cause a storm surge of 18 feet or more above normal tide levels according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC).
4. Rainfall: Hurricanes are producing more rainfall, increasing the risk of flooding. For example, the National Weather Service records show Hurricane Harvey in 2017 dropped more than 60 inches of rain in some areas of Texas, setting a new record for the continental U.S.
5. Preparedness: Despite advances in forecasting, many residents in hurricane-prone areas are not adequately prepared for hurricanes. The 2022 National Household Survey conducted by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) found that only 45 percent of adult respondents are prepared for a natural disaster.

Hurricanes bring threats that can wreak havoc on your home. But it’s not that hard be a ’45 percent-er’. We’ll should you how.

High winds, storm surges, flooding, and power outages are just a few of key dangers associated with these powerful storms. So lets learn a little about each of these risk, to help you prepare for them.

What to expect from a hurricane: high winds

When a hurricane hits, you can often expect winds that exceed 100 miles per hour.

These powerful gusts can cause expensive-to-repair damage to your home’s structure. Loose or weakly attached roofs, windows, and doors are particularly vulnerable to the force of high winds. If you’re starting hurricane preparation, start with reinforcing and securing your roof (or have a professional do it for you) to prevent it from being blown away or damaged during the storm.

In addition to structural damage, high winds pose risks to personal safety. Flying debris, such as tree branches or loose objects, can become projectiles in the strong winds, posing a threat to anyone in their path. It is crucial to stay indoors and away from windows during a hurricane to avoid these potential hazards.

Furthermore, the force of high winds can also lead to power outages. Fallen trees or damaged power lines can disrupt the electrical grid, leaving you without electricity for an extended period. It is important to have alternative sources of energy, such as generators or batteries, to ensure you have power for essential needs.

Hurricane risks: storm surge and flooding

We all witnessed in Hurricane Katrina the powerful impact of hurricane storm surges and associated flooding. Storm surges and flooding are among the most dangerous aspects for coastal homes in a hurricane.

Storm surges occur when the force of the hurricane pushes a wall of water onto the land, causing widespread flooding. This deluge of water can submerge entire neighborhoods, destroy belongings, and even lead to loss of life.

If you live in a low-lying area or near the coast, you are particularly at risk for storm surges and flooding. It is crucial to have a plan in place to protect your home from flooding and to evacuate if necessary. This may involve sandbagging doors and windows, elevating furniture and appliances, and having emergency supplies ready to take with you.

Additionally, flooding can lead to water damage and mold growth in your home. It is important to take immediate action to remove still water and dry out affected areas to prevent further damage and potential health hazards.

Potential for power outages

During a hurricane, power outages are almost inevitable. Fallen trees, damaged power lines, and flooded infrastructure disrupt the electrical grid, leaving you without power for an extended period. The best way to prepare for this is to have alternative sources of energy, such as a generator, batteries, or solar generators. Stocking up on non-perishable food items and bottled water is also crucial.

Being without power for an extended period is challenging.

We went 4 days without grid power in a recent super storm. It affected our ability to communicate, refrigerate food, bathe, and stay warm in our own home.

We bought a solar generator soon after.

Having a an emergency backup power source and a well-stocked emergency kit with essential supplies, including flashlights and a battery-powered radio, can help you stay comfortable when other homeowners are battling to stay in their own homes.

By understanding the threats associated with hurricanes and taking necessary precautions, you can better protect yourself, your loved ones, and your home. So know we know the risks, what to do about them?

How to prepare your home for a hurricane: what to do

Early hurricane preparation

Before a hurricane strikes, there are 3 precautions you can take to safeguard your home and your family’s safety.

As hurricane season approaches, it is important to secure the outside of your home and prepare the inside.

5 steps to securing outside your home

There are 5 simple steps you can take to prepare your home for a hurricane, regardless of whether you’ll hunker down their during the storm or not.

Step 1 – Start by inspecting your home’s exterior for any weak spots or potential hazards. Pay attention to checking for loose roof tiles, missing roof screws, damaged gutters, lose downpipes, and cracks in the foundation. By addressing these issues ahead of time, you can prevent further damage during a hurricane.

Step 2 – Trim any overhanging tree branches that could potentially become projectiles in high winds. This not only protects your home but also reduces the risk of power outages caused by fallen trees or branches.

Step 3 – Secure loose objects, such as patio furniture, trampolines, or garden decorations. Bring them indoors or tie them down. These items can become dangerous projectiles in strong winds, causing damage to your property or neighboring homes.

Step 4 – Reinforce windows and doors with storm shutters or plywood boards to protect against high winds. This added layer of protection can prevent windows from shattering and reduce the risk of structural damage.

Step 5 – Consider investing in impact-resistant windows and roof fasteners for added security. These upgrades can provide extra peace of mind during hurricane season and may even lower your insurance premiums.

Preparing Your Home’s Interior

Inside your home, make sure your emergency kit is well-stocked and easily accessible. This kit should include essential supplies such as flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, non-perishable food, water, for the whole household, and any necessary medications.

If you have pooches, don’t forget to pack a dog go bag, to keep them safe.

You’re either packing to hunker down at home, or to evacuate in an emergency. Decide what’s best for your family, based on the state of your hurricane preparations at home.

Take the time to familiarize yourself with the contents of your emergency kit and ensure that everything is in working order. Replace expired items, charge up batteries, and restock any depleted supplies to ensure you are fully prepared.

Also, don’t forget to secure valuable items and important documents in waterproof containers or bags. This will protect them from potential water damage in the event of a hurricane or flooding.

If you have time, consider lifting up your furniture and appliances to minimize flood damage. This can be done by placing them on cinder blocks or moving them to higher floors of your home.

What to have at home in a hurricane

When a hurricane approaches, it is crucial to stock up on essential supplies to sustain yourself and your family during the storm and its aftermath.

Non-perishable food items such as canned goods, granola bars, and peanut butter are necessities. Don’t forget the freeze-dried food options either. With its impressively long shelf life and compact size, freeze dried food is a perfect addition to any emergency kit. And it will come in handy when the power goes out. You can even get freeze dried meals ready to eat.

Bottled water is also essential, as access to clean drinking water may be limited during and after a hurricane. It is recommended to have at least one gallon of water per person per day for a minimum of three days.

If you do end up without water at home, this article “How to survive without water at home” explains exactly what you can do.

Ensure you have an ample supply of batteries for flashlights and a battery-operated or hand-crank radio. These devices will keep you informed of any updates or emergency alerts during the storm.

Additionally, it is advisable to have a sufficient supply of prescription medications, personal hygiene products, and baby supplies if needed. Make sure to check expiration dates and rotate these supplies periodically to keep them fresh.

To help with exactly what supplies to stock up on, this article is an excellent free resource “What supplies do you need to survive a hurricane?”

How to stay safe during a hurricane

Once a hurricane is imminent and you have completed all necessary pre-hurricane preparations, it is up to you to stay safe and informed during the storm.

You can do this at home, or at an emergency shelter.

The powerful winds and heavy rain associated with hurricanes can create dangerous conditions. Flying debris and fallen power lines pose severe risks. So it is best to avoid going outside during the storm unless absolutely necessary.

So the biggest tip we can share is to decide early. Whichever it is – at home or in a shelter – don’t leave it too late to get there.

Sheltering at home during a hurricane

There are 3 important things to know, to stay safe in your own home during a hurricane;

1. where to shelter,
2. how to stay informed,
3. what do to if the power goes out, and
4. what to do if your home is inundated.

When seeking shelter at home during a hurricane, it is recommended to find a small, windowless interior room on the lowest level of your home. You absolutely want to stay away from windows to protect yourself from shattered glass.

Some homes built in hurricane zones will have a room designed for this purpose. We had a cinder block room on the ground level in the home I grew up in, specifically for hurricane safety.

An interior room will provide you with the most protection against the strong winds and potential tornadoes that can form within a hurricane. The only thing to mention is that if you live in an area prone to flooding, you may need to be on an upper floor to avoid the risk of being trapped by rising water.

Staying informed about the storm’s progress is crucial during a hurricane.

Monitor weather updates to stay ahead of potential dangers and make informed decisions about your own safety. Becoming stuck outside during a hurricane is one of the most dangerous things that could happen to you.

A battery-operated or hand-crank radio can be a valuable tool for listening to weather updates if the power goes out.

But most of us will rely on our phones.

Many weather Apps have emergency alert features that provide real-time updates from government bodies and weather bureaus. The most up to date, live information tends to be found on social media these days. Facebook in particular has become a platform used by community groups, local government and emergency services to distribute emergency warnings.

In the event of a power outage during a hurricane, it is essential to stay calm and conserve energy. Use flashlights rather than candles to avoid potential fire hazards from strong winds and open flames. Don’t forget to unplug sensitive electronics to protect them from power surges when the electricity is restored.

If you are using a traditional generator as a backup power source, you’ll have to wait until the storm has passed. Traditional fuel based generators should never be operated indoors or in an enclosed area, as they produce carbon monoxide, which is a deadly gas.

If you have a portable power station as emergency backup, you’re not limited in this way. Lithium batteries can be used indoors, so you’ll have power during and after the storm.

If your home is inundated with flood waters during a hurricane, prioritize your safety and take the following steps:

1. Turn Off Utilities: If it is safe and you have time, turn off electricity, gas, and water supplies at the main switches or valves to prevent fires and explosions.
2. Evacuate Immediately (if still safe to do so): If you have not already evacuated and it is safe to do so, leave your home immediately and move to higher ground or a designated evacuation center. Do not wait for the water to rise further.
3. Do Not Walk or Drive Through Floodwaters: Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down, and 1 foot of water can sweep your vehicle away. Find an alternate route if you encounter flooded roads.
4. Grab Your Emergency Kit: Take your emergency kit with you, which should include essential items such as water, non-perishable food, first aid supplies, important documents, and any necessary medications.
5. Stay Informed: Listen to a battery-powered radio or your mobile phone for updates on the situation and any further instructions from local authorities.
6. Move up (if you can’t evacuate): Move up inside your home. Don’t move into the attic – you may become trapped if flood waters rise. Floodwater may be contaminated with sewage, oil, chemicals, and other hazardous substances. Avoid contact with the water wherever possible.
7. Do Not Return Home Until It Is Safe: Wait for local authorities to declare that it is safe to return home. Be cautious when re-entering your home as there may be hidden dangers such as structural damage, live electrical wires, and contaminated water.

Remember, your safety is the most important priority. Do not risk your life by staying in a flooded home during a hurricane.

Post-hurricane recovery

Returning home after a hurricane can be a devastating experience, physically and emotionally. Don’t forget to find some support – from friends, family and community organisations – as you take these 4 steps below.

Contact friends and family

Use your emergency contact list to put the word out that you are safe, and that your family is ok. Use this step to get help from family and friends, with your post hurricane recovery

Assess any home damage

Once it is safe to venture outside, carefully assess the damage to your home. Check for any visible structural damage, including roof leaks or foundation cracks. Take pictures or videos of the damage for insurance purposes. If necessary, contact professionals for assistance with repairs or cleanup.

Deal with your home insurer

If your home has suffered significant damage, contact your insurance company to file a claim as soon as possible. Document the damage to your home thoroughly, including written descriptions and photographs. Keep all relevant receipts and paperwork. Be prepared to provide any requested documentation or evidence to support your claim.

Don’t begin cleaning up until you have sought the advice of your insurer. Some insurance companies require that you use professional cleaning services after certain natural disasters, especially flooding.

Access government assistance

In the US, you may be eligible for government assistance if you are affected by natural disasters. Here are some of the programs to look for:

1. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Assistance: FEMA provides assistance to individuals and households affected by natural disasters, including grants for temporary housing, home repairs, and other disaster-related expenses not covered by insurance.
2. Disaster Unemployment Assistance: Administered by the Department of Labor and provides temporary financial assistance to individuals unemployed as a result of a major disaster.
3. Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP): administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and provides temporary food assistance to households affected by a natural disaster.
4. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): a federally funded program giving temporary financial assistance to families in need, and may be available to those affected by a natural disaster.
5. Crisis Counseling Assistance and Training Program: distributes funding for short-term crisis counseling services to people affected by a presidentially declared major disaster.
6. Disaster Legal Services: provides free legal assistance to low-income individuals who are unable to secure legal services in the aftermath of a major disaster.
7. Individuals and Households Program (IHP): financial help or direct services for those who have necessary expenses and serious needs if they are unable to meet these needs through other means.

Eligibility for these programs may vary based on the nature of the disaster and your individual circumstances. But it’s important to know there are programs out there. Look online at the time to see what may be available.

Clean and repair your home

Begin the cleanup process by removing any debris or fallen trees from your property. Be cautious when using power tools and avoid unstable structures. Always wear protective gloves and waterproof boots as you never know what dangers are hidden beneath flood waters.

Clean and disinfect any areas that have been affected by mud and water. Use fans and heaters to dry wet areas thoroughly.

Flooding causes mould growth inside walls, which can become a huge health issue for your family. Consult with professionals for water damage restoration to walls to prevent mold growth and ensure your home is safe.

Recap

Preparing your home for a hurricane can help to protect yourself and your property. In this article, you’ve learned the most fearsome hurricanes risks to prepare for. You also know what to have and do before, during and after a hurricane strikes. Remember to stay informed and decide early whether to shelter at home or evacuate. Have a well-prepared emergency kit, and follow the steps in this article to stay safe at home. Preparing today will help your family weather the storms of tomorrow and recovering quickly in their aftermath.