xAnts

HOUSTON (AP) – The anticipation of hurricane season can trigger anxiety for millions of Americans residing along coastal regions. The potential for devastating winds, torrential rainfall, and prolonged power outages is a stark reality. With forecasters predicting a potentially busy 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, now is the time to proactively prepare and safeguard your loved ones and property. This comprehensive guide outlines essential steps to take, ensuring you’re ready to weather whatever Mother Nature throws your way.

Understanding the Forecast & Potential Risks

Leading meteorological agencies, including NOAA, are forecasting an above-average hurricane season in 2025. Factors contributing to this prediction include warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean and a likely transition to an El Niño pattern. This combination creates an environment conducive to hurricane formation and intensification. Understanding the specific risks facing your location – storm surge, flooding, high winds – is the first critical step.

Before the Storm: Proactive Preparations

Develop a Family Emergency Plan: Discuss potential evacuation routes, designate a meeting place, and ensure everyone knows how to contact each other. Practice your plan, including a mock evacuation.

Build a Disaster Kit: This kit should sustain you and your family for at least 72 hours. Essential items include:

• Water (one gallon per person per day)
• Non-perishable food
• First-aid kit
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
• Medications
• Important documents (insurance policies, identification)
• Cash

Secure Your Home: Trim trees and shrubs, secure loose outdoor objects (patio furniture, garbage cans), and consider installing hurricane shutters or impact-resistant windows. Reinforce garage doors, which are often vulnerable points.

Review Insurance Coverage: Ensure your homeowner's or renter's insurance is up-to-date and covers hurricane-related damages, including flood insurance (which is typically separate). Understand your deductible and policy limits.

During the Storm: Safety First

Heed Evacuation Orders: If authorities issue an evacuation order, comply immediately. Don't wait until the last minute. Know your designated evacuation route and shelter locations.

Stay Informed: Monitor weather updates from reliable sources, such as the National Hurricane Center and local news stations.

Seek Shelter: If you are not evacuating, stay indoors in a designated safe room or interior room away from windows. Protect yourself from flying debris.

After the Storm: Recovery and Safety

Be Aware of Hazards: After the storm passes, be cautious of downed power lines, debris, and standing water. Avoid driving through floodwaters.

Document Damage: Take photos and videos of any damage to your property for insurance claims.

Contact Insurance: File your insurance claim as soon as possible.

Help Your Neighbors: Check on your neighbors and offer assistance if needed. Community support is crucial during recovery efforts.