Ian reminds region about disaster prep
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
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
All eyes remain on
Just nine hurricanes have historically made landfall on the southeastern coast of the region. The last to make landfall in
The
The
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
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
Have a disaster supplies kit
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
According to a 2021 survey by the
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?
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.
Inside
Hurricane Ian Is a Reminder That the U.S. Has Always Been Bad at Protecting the Most Vulnerable
How New England can prepare for potential hurricane impacts
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