Before the Storm
Build an Emergency Kit
- Water: 4 litres per person per day for 3 days
- Non-perishable food and a manual can opener
- Torch and extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
- Phone charger (portable battery bank)
- Important documents in a waterproof bag
- Cash (ATMs may be down)
Prepare Your Home
- Secure loose outdoor furniture, bins, and decorations
- Clear gutters and drains
- Know how to shut off gas, electricity, and water
- Trim overhanging tree branches near your home
- Board up windows if a hurricane is approaching
Plan
- Know your evacuation route
- Identify the safest room in your house (interior, ground floor, away from windows)
- Have a family communication plan
During the Storm
- Stay indoors, away from windows
- Go to your safe room if wind becomes severe
- Do not walk or drive through flood water (15cm of moving water can knock you down; 30cm can move a car)
- Use torches, not candles (fire risk)
- Unplug major appliances to protect against power surges
- Fill bathtub with water (for flushing toilets if water is cut)
After the Storm
- Check yourself and others for injuries
- Do not touch downed power lines
- Document damage with photos for insurance
- Boil water until authorities confirm supply is safe
- Watch for secondary hazards: flooding, weakened structures, gas leaks
Monitor storm warnings on Weather Tomorrow.
Get tomorrow's forecast in your inbox
Free daily weather email. Choose your city, pick your time.
Subscribe — FreeRelated Articles
Weather Tips4 min
Weather and Pets — Keeping Animals Safe in Extreme Conditions
Your pets rely on you to protect them from heat, cold, storms, and other weather dangers. Here is a practical guide.
Weather Tips4 min
Weather Emergency Kit — What to Pack and Why
A ready-to-go emergency kit could save your life in a severe weather event. Here is exactly what to include.
Weather Tips4 min
Winter Driving in Bad Weather — Safety Tips
Ice, snow, fog, and rain make winter roads dangerous. These practical tips can help you arrive safely.