Are You Prepared for the 2022 Hurricane Season?

A hurricane is a serious weather event and should be treated as such. If the correct actions are not taken when storms and hurricanes do strike, the consequences can be disastrous.

According to the National Safety Council, tornadoes and hurricanes were responsible for 77 deaths and over 700 injuries in 2020 alone.

Preparing for hurricane season doesn’t have to be difficult. But it is important to be aware of some hurricane preparedness tips that can prevent injury and potentially even save your life. Read on for the most important tips now.

Predictions for the Upcoming Hurricane Season

Before we get into our suggested hurricane preparedness strategy, let’s take a look at what meteorologists are predicting about the upcoming hurricane season in Texas and surrounding states. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, in 2021 there were 21 named storms. This included seven hurricanes, of which four were major hurricanes.

This year, the NOAA predicts another above-normal Atlantic hurricane season. It says there will be anywhere between 14 and 21 named storms.

The Atlantic hurricane season will occur between August and October, peaking in September. The people of Texas need to be prepared during these months and beyond.

Important Safety and Hurricane Preparedness Tips

When a hurricane does strike, what are some important things to remember? First, there are some things you can do in advance. 

It’s a good idea to scan important personal documents in case of flooding. You can also take photographs of your home and furniture. This will allow you to make claims from your insurance policy in a more efficient way.

You should also create an evacuation plan in case you are ordered to evacuate. If you’re unable to evacuate, always remain inside.

Keep away from any skylights, windows, or glass doors. Go to a safe area, such as a downstairs area, an interior room, or a closet.

Your Emergency Supply Kit: What to Include

One of the most important hurricane preparedness tips is to have an emergency supply kit on hand. You should keep this somewhere that’s easy to reach.

Check it each year to see if supplies need to be replenished. According to the Department of Homeland Security, here’s what you should have in your kit:

• Prescription and non-prescription medications
• Baby formula (if applicable)
• Medical supplies
• Batteries
• Water
• Non-perishable foods

Other items will be specific to your household. Take into account the individual needs of all members of your home, including pets and infants.

Don’t Get Caught Off Guard During Hurricane Season

The more organized and ready you are in case of a disaster, the less chance of injury there is. Follow these hurricane preparedness tips to make sure you and your stay safe this hurricane season.

If you are injured or require medical assistance for any reason, visit our emergency room in Everhart, TX for the best care.

Sources:

National Safety Council. “Weather-Related Deaths and Injuries” 2021, https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/home-and-community/safety-topics/weather-related-deaths-and-injuries/ National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. “Active 2021 Atlantic hurricane season officially ends” 30 Nov. 2021, https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/active-2021-atlantic-hurricane-season-officially-ends National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. “NOAA predicts above-normal 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season” 24 May 2021, https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/noaa-predicts-above-normal-2022-atlantic-hurricane-season US Department of Homeland Security “Build a Kit” 10 May 2022, https://www.ready.gov/kit