How New England can prepare for potential hurricane impacts

While New Englanders aren't pelted with hurricanes like Floridians, the region is often on the receiving end of remnants — heavy rain, storm surge and gusts of wind.

And as the climate continues to warm, hurricane paths are increasingly headed northward, scientists say, demonstrated last year by Tropical Storm Henri and residual impacts of Hurricane Ida, and more recently by Hurricane Fiona's impact on eastern Canada.

New Englanders should be prepared for upheaval from hurricanes making landfall in the South, and certainly those expected to make landfall farther north. Based on a century of data analyzed by the National Hurricane Center, a hurricane can be expected to reach Cape Cod, for example, every 13-16 years. A major hurricane (Category 3, 4 or 5) can be expected every 58 to 62 years.

Will Hurricane

Ian impact New England?

All eyes remain on Florida as Hurricane Ian crosses through the state after blasting its southeastern peninsula Wednesday. In New England, the region could see some rainfall and wind this weekend.

WCVB Meteorologist Mike Wankum said Ian will reach tropical storm level as it works its way northward, likely bringing rain to southeastern New England on Saturday and possibly into Sunday.

Just nine hurricanes have historically made landfall on the southeastern coast of the region. The last to make landfall in New England was Hurricane Bob in 1991. Most hurricanes slow down and become tropical storms by the time they make it up this far north.

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to Nov. 30.

How to prepare for a

hurricane in New England

The National Weather Service's Boston office reminds people that any storm with a name has the potential to become New England's business. So where do you begin with preparations?

Make sure you have a hurricane evacuation plan, disaster supplies, insurance if needed and a secure home, the NWS said during Hurricane Preparedness Week in Southern New England this summer.

Have a hurricane evacuation plan

Whether you are subjected to inland flooding or ocean storm surge, you should consider an evacuation plan, according to the NWS.

"This does not necessarily mean evacuees must travel hundreds of miles," it said. "In fact, the shortest travel distance to a safe location is best since it reduces traffic congestion and minimizes the chance of encountering other problems on the roadways."

This could mean staying with family, friends or at a hotel outside of the immediately impacted area.

People are urged not to drive during or immediately after the storm. If you absolutely have to drive, the National Safety Council recommends the following items be kept in a car safety kit: jumper cables, tool kit, first aid kit, car phone charger, cat litter for traction, spare tire, and jack and wheel wrench. Other items such as warm clothing, water and snacks are encouraged.

Have a disaster supplies

kit, stock up on medication

The NWS urges people to build a a disaster preparedness kit for their home containing:

One gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation

Non-perishable food and a manual can opener

Battery powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA All-Hazards weather radio — include extra batteries for each

Flashlights or lamps with extra batteries

First aid kit

Extra glasses and any medicines

A whistle to signal for help

A wrench or pliers to turn off utilities

Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for sanitation

Local maps

NWS cautions people to not use candles or an open flame as a source of light after a major storm because emergency fire services are likely disrupted, meaning "a small fire could get out of hand quickly."

Do I need hurricane

insurance in New England?

According to a 2021 survey by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, 73% of homeowners feel the most significant threats facing their homes are weather-related, with water damage and wind damage topping the list.

Homeowners are encouraged to review their homeowners' insurance policy to understand what's covered and what's not. Damage from flooding is typically not covered under a standard homeowner's policy, meaning you would have to purchase a separate flood insurance policy.

Homeowners' insurance typically covers fire, wind, lightning, hail, explosion and tornadoes, while flood insurance covers flooding as a result of ocean, lakes or rivers.

How do I protect my

home from a hurricane?

The Federal Alliance for Safe Homes releases disaster-specific checklists. Its hurricane checklist urges homeowners to consider location and construction, asking questions like:

Is the home located in a storm surge evacuation zone?

Are the windows, doors, and garage doors rated for design pressure or impact?

Was the roof constructed with high winds in mind?

Are there retrofits and upgrades you can do to make the home safer?

For the full hurricane checklist, visit https://www.buildingresilient.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Buyers-Guide-Hurricane-Checklist.pdf