Hampton Roads: Hurricane Preparedness

Hurricane Preparedness in Hampton Roads, Virginia: Stay Safe and Informed

Hurricane season is a reality for the residents of Hampton Roads, Virginia. With the potential for powerful storms to make landfall, it’s crucial to be well-prepared to protect yourself, your family, and your property. In this post, we’ll provide you with a straightforward guide to hurricane preparedness in the Hampton Roads area.

1. Stay Informed:

• Monitor local news and weather updates regularly, especially during hurricane season, which typically runs from June 1st to November 30th.
• Sign up for emergency alerts and notifications from local authorities and the National Weather Service.
• Familiarize yourself with hurricane categories and the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale to understand the severity of approaching storms. You can find great information as well as trajectory at the National Hurricane Center.

2. Create a Hurricane Kit:

• Assemble an emergency kit with essential supplies, including non-perishable food, water (at least one gallon per person per day for at least three days), flashlights, batteries, cell phone portable chargers, a first-aid kit, and important documents.
• Don’t forget to include any necessary medications, pet supplies, and baby items if applicable. You can never be too prepared for hurricane season.

3. Develop an Evacuation Plan:

• Identify evacuation routes and shelters in your area. Keep in mind that Hampton Roads is prone to flooding during heavy rains and hurricanes, so plan accordingly.
• Make a family emergency communication plan, including contact information and a meeting point. It is not unusual for Hampton roads to lose power and therefore lose cell communication during a hurricane.

4. Secure Your Home:

• Trim trees and remove dead branches to minimize the risk of debris during high winds. Trees in Hampton roads have shallow roots and can be very dangerous during the high winds of a hurricane.
• Reinforce windows and doors with hurricane shutters or plywood.
• Secure outdoor items that could become projectiles in strong winds.

5. Review Insurance Policies:

• Ensure you have adequate homeowners or renters insurance that covers hurricane damage. Review your policy with your insurance agent to understand your coverage.

6. Gas Up and Power Up:

• Keep your vehicle’s gas tank full, as gas shortages can occur during hurricanes.
• Charge your cell phone and other essential electronic devices. Have automotive cell phone chargers.

7. Stay Calm and Follow Orders:

• If local authorities issue evacuation orders, heed them promptly.
• During the storm, stay indoors away from windows and remain in a safe area.

8. After the Storm:

• Be cautious of downed power lines and flooding when venturing outside.
• Report any damage to your property to your insurance company.
• Help our Hampton Roads neighbors in need, but do so safely.
• If using a generator, make sure it is not active inside your home only use a generator outside.

Remember, preparedness is key to staying safe during hurricane season in Hampton Roads, Virginia. By following these straightforward steps, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from the potential impacts of these powerful storms. Stay informed, stay safe, and be ready for whatever Mother Nature may bring your way.