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Hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30 on the Atlantic coast and from May 15 to November 30 on the Pacific coast. Hurricanes are a potential threat to any coastal area, especially the Gulf Coast region. If you live inland, you are at risk for wind, thunderstorms, flooding, and power outages during a hurricane.
Here are some important tips to help keep you and your family safe during hurricane season.
When is Hurricane Season?
- Eastern Pacific Hurricane Season: May 15 through November 30
- Atlantic Hurricane Season: June 1 through November 30
- Central Pacific Hurricane Season: June 1 through November 30
These are just estimates of when hurricane season might begin. Every year is a little different, so it's essential to stay alert and listen to local authorities.
Know Your Evacuation Zone
You may have to evacuate your home quickly due to a hurricane. Learn your evacuation routes & identify where you will stay.
If the State or Federal Warning Systems require relocation, evacuate early to avoid traffic jams and dangerous winds.
Don't go off course – follow official local hurricane evacuation routes. This includes listening to and following guidance from your local installation command teams.
If you have been instructed to evacuate, please do so. Listen to local officials to save yourself and your family.
If you rely on public transportation, contact your local emergency management agency about evacuation procedures before a hurricane.
Hurricane Categories
Hurricanes are classed into categories, just like tornados. The higher the number (or classification), the greater the potential for damage. A Category 3 or higher is considered a major hurricane.
Hurricane Watch- A hurricane watch indicates the possibility that a region could experience hurricane conditions within 48 hours.
Hurricane Warning- A hurricane warning indicates that sustained winds of at least 74 mph are expected within 36 hours.
When a hurricane watch is announced:
- Monitor Red Flag Notifications from LMH.
- Listen to the National and City Warning System on the radio.
- Have current information on the location of the Red Cross shelters and directions to get there.
- Make sure your Emergency Supply Kit is near the door in case you need to evacuate quickly.
When a hurricane warning is announced:
- Close all blinds to avoid shattering glass.
- Fill containers with water and place them in the freezer. The ice will help prolong items from thawing out in case of power loss.
- Fill the bathtub(s) with water. This water may be poured into the toilet tank to induce flushing. It also may be needed for drinking should the water supply become interrupted or contaminated.
- Unplug all unnecessary items that are not in use. Please do not unplug your refrigerator.
- Should you need to evacuate, collect, and take all important paperwork and personal identification with you.
- When evacuating, advise the District Office and provide an emergency contact number where LMH can be reached.
- Ensure all windows and doors are closed and locked, all water faucets off, unnecessary appliances are unplugged, and leave the AC on to prevent humidity in the home and possible mold growth).
Prepare
You are encouraged to prepare for a hurricane in advance. When disaster strikes, you want to be ready to go at a moment's notice. Having a bag prepared for emergencies is a simple solution.
Tips
- Build emergency supplies by grabbing extra at the store before an emergency. Check out this video for a step-by-step how-to guide on creating an emergency kit: https://youtu.be/Htgqb0pwrlQ
- During an extended power outage, ATMs & credit card machines may not work. It's a good idea to have some extra cash inside your kit.
- Set up group text lists to communicate with friends and family at the same time during emergencies.
- Get the kids involved in hurricane preparedness planning with Ready Kids.
Prepare Financially
Part of being prepared is understanding your finances. Does your family have enough savings in case of an emergency?
Anticipate initial out-of-pocket expenses for lodging, food, gas, and more after a disaster. Contact the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society if you need assistance. The Society provides interest-free loans and grants for basic living expenses, emergency travel expenses, and other family emergencies for military members and their families facing financial crises or need.
The Emergency Financial First Aid Kit is a tool to help individuals and families at all income levels collect and secure the documentation they would need in case a disaster strikes: www.ready.gov/financial-preparedness
- Check on Your Neighbors
- Check in with neighbors to see how you can help each other out before and after a storm.
- If you run to the store for last-minute supplies, see if your neighbors need anything.
- Receive Hurricane Alerts
Receiving timely information about weather conditions or other emergency events can make all the difference in knowing when to take action to be safe. Download apps for disaster resources, weather alerts, and safety tips.
Explore this list of government-approved alert programs available
