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This hurricane season has been remarkably tranquil up to this point.

However, that could alter with Hurricane Gabrielle targeting Bermuda in the upcoming days and more than two months remaining before the 2025 storm season officially concludes.

Curious about how to ensure your safety? Alyssa Ragan, from the University of Georgia’s Institute for Disaster Management, addresses frequently asked questions regarding hurricane preparedness.

“Our prediction models are improving, but the precise location of a storm’s landfall and the severity of its effects are mostly uncertain until it actually occurs. This is why being ready is crucial.”

What should be included in a hurricane emergency kit?

A hurricane emergency kit is quite similar to your typical all-hazards emergency kit. The primary distinction lies in the quantity of supplies.

The recommendation is generally for three days’ worth of provisions, but recent storms have shown that individuals can be stranded in their residences without communication for a week or more. Therefore, aim for nearly a week’s supply of food, water, and essentials, if feasible — particularly items for infants and children, such as diapers and formula. If you need to evacuate, ensure you pack these items and anticipate the journey taking significantly longer than normal traffic conditions.

Another aspect to consider for hurricanes is alternative power sources. If you lack a generator, do you have battery packs or other alternative methods to recharge your devices?

I also suggest having a pet-oriented emergency kit. This can be a bag or container you keep handy with items like pet food, collars and leashes, paw wax, medications, shampoo, medical records, etc.

Where can I locate trustworthy information and alerts about a storm?

The National Hurricane Center, part of the National Weather Service, is a reliable source.

You should also engage with your local county and city officials on social media, as well as your county or state emergency management agency. Subscribe to numerous communication channels whenever possible. This can include texts, emails, calls, social media, and television.

Bear in mind that forecasts remain merely predictions. Even if you’re outside the cone, you could still face consequences.

Should I evacuate or remain at home during a hurricane?

Every storm varies. You should not base your choice solely on the storm’s category. While categories help to gauge wind speeds, a Category 1 or 2 storm can be just as, if not more, perilous than a Category 4 or 5 storm.

In any case, you should make your decision at least a day or two before tropical storm force winds (39 mph and above) are expected in your vicinity. Always heed the advice of local officials and comply with their orders if a mandatory evacuation is announced.

Where is the safest location in my home to take shelter?

Generally, you should be on the lowest level, in the most central section of your home, away from windows. If flooding occurs, try to reach a higher level if it’s safe. Ensure that, if you move up, you have an exit strategy. Keep a hammer, saw, or a sturdy object that can create an opening in the roof.

What are some prevalent misconceptions about hurricanes?

A typical error I observe is exclusively depending on the hurricane category rating to estimate a storm’s impact. The category is a score based on peak sustained wind speed. However, it’s essential not to concentrate only on the wind. You should also think about the amount of rain and flooding a storm may bring. Some of the most devastating hurricanes we’ve encountered have been rated lower due to their slow movement and significant water accumulation.

The post How to stay secure during hurricane season appeared first on UGA Today.

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