Hurricane Season: What to do when a hurricane strikes

Hurricanes can be devastating and deadly. These powerful storms can cause bodily injury and death, and cause significant damage to homes and local infrastructure.

The potentially devastating impact of hurricanes underscores the need for those living in areas vulnerable to the storms to know what to do should one occur. The following guidelines can serve as an outline of what to do during a hurricane.
• Evacuate if an evacuation order is issued. Modern technology has made it easier to identify when hurricanes are coming and the potential severity of the storms. Utilizing information at their disposal, governments issue evacuation orders when areas are identified as particularly vulnerable to an oncoming storm. Residents living in such areas are urged to heed evacuation orders immediately. Waiting too long to evacuate can be dangerous and it may prove difficult to get out of town safely.

• Stay connected if you cannot evacuate. If you are unable to evacuate, make an effort to ensure you can stay connected as long as possible. Charge all phones and devices, including radios, so you have access to the latest information regarding the storm and can maintain contact with loved ones. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts notes that the National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio and local news stations can be great resources for individuals living in the path of a hurricane.

• Stay indoors. Flooding and powerful winds combine to make being outdoors difficult and dangerous during a hurricane. If you cannot evacuate, stay indoors after safeguarding your home from the storm by covering all windows. Close permanent storm shutters if you have them. If not, the National Weather Service advises boarding up windows with 5⁄8-inch thick exterior grade or marine plywood. It’s important to remain inside even if flooding looks to be minimal, as the Commonwealth of Massachusetts notes that just six inches of flowing water can be enough to knock you off your feet. Steer clear of windows during the storm. The NWS advises taking refuge in a small interior room, closet or hallway on the lowest level during the storm, ideally putting as many walls between you and the storm as possible.

• Listen to instructions from local officials. Local officials may issue instructions to individuals sheltering-in-place during a hurricane. Follow these instructions closely.
Knowing what to do when a hurricane strikes is imperative for individuals living in areas vulnerable to such storms. More information about hurricane preparation can be found at Weather.gov and noaa.gov.