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New to Baldwin County? You should spend the weekend preparing for a hurricane.
Yes, we know the meteorologists can’t say exactly where the system currently churning will land. We know some people are thinking Florida is in its sights, but that doesn’t mean the rest of us should sit back and relax.
Hurricanes are unpredictable. They shift. They strengthen. They sit over a region for hours as Sally did, shocking everyone who thought we were in for a few uncomfortable hours of storms and waking up to $7.3 million in damages.
The best time to prepare for a hurricane is before it’s closing in on us.
This weekend, take a few moments to prepare supplies. Experts say families should have this kit ready to go at the beginning of hurricane season in June. The focus of the kit is not necessarily on items to use during the storm but also to use in the days after when there may be no electricity or phone service.
At a minimum, have enough non-perishable food, water and medicine to last each person in your family three days. Experts suggest storing more than three days-worth of water if possible.
Extra cash, a battery-powered radio and flashlights, and a portable crank or solar-powered USB charger for your cell phones are also helpful.
When a storm begins to churn in the Gulf, keep your car filled with gas in case a quick evacuation is needed and keep cell phones fully charged.
To learn more about hurricane preparedness, read Gulf Coast Media's Stay Alert 2022 preparedness guide, or visit National Hurricane Preparedness | National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (noaa.gov).
