hurricane season

Hurricane Season: It’s Never Too Early to Be Prepared

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storm damage

It’s June, the days are long and sunny, and thoughts of tropical storms are probably far from your mind. But here in Southeastern Connecticut, hurricane season officially began on June 1st. While major hurricanes are rare in our region, we can still experience the effects of these powerful storms later in the season, typically between August and late September.

Governor Ned Lamont recently emphasized the importance of being proactive in a press release, urging residents to take steps now to ensure their safety and well-being in the event of a hurricane.

“It’s never too early to make sure you and your family are prepared for natural disasters, especially hurricanes,” Governor Lamont said. “Hurricane season is part of our reality in Connecticut, and we’re doing everything we can to make preparations and ensure our residents stay safe, including reminding everyone about the steps they can take to protect themselves, such as making an emergency plan and pulling together emergency kits. A few small steps like these can go a long way and save you time in the event that you need to act quickly.”

Here are some key ways to be prepared for a potential hurricane:

  • Build an Emergency Kit: Stock up on non-perishable food, bottled water (at least one gallon per person per day for three days), a first-aid kit, medications, flashlights, batteries, a battery-powered radio, and a whistle (for signaling for help). Don’t forget to include items for specific needs, like baby supplies or pet food.
  • Power Outage Plan: Charge all portable electronics beforehand. Consider investing in a solar phone charger or a hand-crank radio for extended outages. Flashlights are essential, but headlamps can be even more helpful, keeping your hands free.
  • Water Safety: Hurricanes often bring heavy rain and flooding. Fill a bathtub with clean water for sanitation purposes in case the water supply is compromised.
  • Flood Preparedness: If you live in a low-lying area, consider having sandbags on hand to help prevent floodwaters from entering your home.
  • Secure Your Property: Trim branches from trees around your home to minimize wind damage. Board up windows if necessary. Bring in outdoor furniture and decorations that could become projectiles in high winds.

Stay Informed

Download the CT Prepares app for real-time weather alerts and emergency information.

Preparation is key

 Taking steps now can help ensure your family’s safety and peace of mind throughout the hurricane season.

Hurricane season: What to do if a major storm impacts Southeastern CT

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satellite image of a hurricane

Hurricane season is upon us, and while Connecticut is not as frequently affected by hurricanes as some southern coastal areas, it is not immune to the potential impacts of these powerful storms. To ensure the safety and well-being of yourself and your loved ones during hurricane season, it’s crucial to be prepared. Here are some essential tips for Connecticut residents to stay safe and be prepared in the event a hurricane impacts Southeastern Connecticut.

Stay Informed

The first step in hurricane preparedness is staying informed. Keep a close watch on weather forecasts and pay attention to any hurricane watches or warnings issued by the National Weather Service (NWS). Sign up for emergency alerts and notifications through platforms like FEMA’s Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) and the Emergency Alert System (EAS) to receive timely updates.

Create a Hurricane Emergency Kit

A well-prepared emergency kit is essential for any disaster situation. Assemble your kit well in advance of hurricane season and include items like:

  • Non-perishable food and a manual can opener
  • Bottled water (at least one gallon per person per day)
  • First-aid supplies and prescription medications
  • Flashlights with extra batteries
  • A battery-powered or hand-crank radio
  • Personal hygiene items and sanitation supplies
  • Important documents (passport, insurance papers, identification)
  • Cash in small denominations
  • Pet supplies if you have pets

Develop an Evacuation Plan

In the event of a hurricane, you may need to evacuate your home. Plan your evacuation route in advance and communicate it with your family members. Identify local shelters or hotels that accept pets if you have them. Consider the needs of elderly family members or individuals with disabilities when planning your evacuation.

Water coming over road during hurricane

Secure Your Home

Prepare your home for a hurricane by taking the following steps:

  • Reinforce windows with hurricane shutters or plywood.
  • Trim trees and bushes to reduce the risk of debris during high winds.
  • Ensure your roof is in good condition and make any necessary repairs.
  • Elevate valuable items and electronics in your home to protect them from flooding.
  • Secure outdoor furniture and loose objects that could become projectiles in high winds.

Stock Up on Supplies

Stock up on essential supplies well in advance of a hurricane. Grocery stores and gas stations may run out of supplies in the days leading up to a storm. Ensure you have enough food, water, and other necessities to last at least three days.

Health Considerations

Hurricanes can have a significant impact on your health. Here are some health-related tips:

  • Keep a supply of necessary medications on hand.
  • Stay hydrated to prevent heat-related illnesses during power outages.
  • Avoid floodwaters, as they may be contaminated and pose health risks.
  • Protect yourself from mosquito-borne diseases by using repellent and wearing long-sleeved clothing.

Stay Connected

Maintain communication with friends and family during a hurricane. Share your whereabouts and safety status regularly. Consider investing in a backup power source for your phone, such as a portable charger or a car charger, as power outages can disrupt communication.

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