As our climate shifts, extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and intense. From scorching heatwaves to bone-chilling polar vortexes, from devastating hurricanes to prolonged droughts, Mother Nature is throwing increasingly unpredictable curveballs our way.
Being prepared for these weather extremes isn’t just about comfort—it’s about survival. Whether you live in Tornado Alley, along a hurricane-prone coast, or in an area susceptible to wildfires, these 15 expert tips will help you weather any storm that comes your way.
Know Your Local Risks
Understanding the specific weather threats in your area is crucial. Research historical weather patterns and consult local meteorologists to identify potential risks. For example, if you live in Florida, hurricanes are a primary concern, while Oklahoma residents need to be tornado-ready. Familiarize yourself with local emergency plans and evacuation routes. Consider creating a personalized risk assessment for your property, taking into account factors like elevation, proximity to water bodies, and surrounding vegetation.
Create an Emergency Kit
A well-stocked emergency kit can be a lifesaver during extreme weather events. Include enough food, water, and supplies to last at least 72 hours per person. Don’t forget medications, first aid supplies, and important documents. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends one gallon of water per person per day and a minimum three-day supply of non-perishable food. Regularly check and rotate the items in your kit, replacing expired food and updating personal documents as needed.
Invest in a Weather Radio
A battery-powered or hand-crank weather radio is essential for staying informed during power outages. Look for NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards (NWR) receivers, which provide continuous broadcasts of weather information and emergency alerts. The Midland WR120 is a popular model that offers SAME technology for location-specific warnings. Test your weather radio monthly and keep extra batteries on hand to ensure it’s always ready when you need it.
Reinforce Your Home
Strengthen your home against extreme weather by addressing vulnerabilities. Install storm shutters or impact-resistant windows in hurricane-prone areas. In tornado-prone regions, reinforce garage doors and create a safe room. The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety offers region-specific guidelines for home fortification. Consider hiring a professional to conduct a home weatherization audit to identify and address weak points in your home’s defense against extreme weather.
Develop a Family Communication Plan
During a disaster, normal communication channels may be disrupted. Establish a family communication plan that includes an out-of-area contact and a predetermined meeting place. Practice this plan regularly with all family members. Consider using apps like Zello, which can turn your smartphone into a walkie-talkie even when cell networks are down. Create laminated cards with emergency contact information for each family member to carry at all times.
Stock Up on Non-Perishable Food
Build a stockpile of non-perishable food items that can sustain your family for an extended period. Focus on nutrient-dense options like canned meats, beans, and vegetables. Don’t forget comfort foods—they can be a morale booster during stressful times. Aim for a minimum two-week supply, rotating stock regularly to maintain freshness. Learn basic food preservation techniques like canning and dehydrating to expand your long-term food storage options.
Secure Alternative Power Sources
Power outages often accompany extreme weather events. Invest in a backup power source like a portable generator or solar power system. The Goal Zero Yeti 1500X portable power station offers 1516Wh of power and can run essential appliances. Always follow safety guidelines when using generators to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Consider installing a transfer switch to safely connect a generator to your home’s electrical system, allowing you to power critical circuits during outages.
Prepare for Water Scarcity
Extreme weather can disrupt water supplies. Store at least one gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation. Consider installing a rainwater collection system or investing in a water purification system like the Berkey Water Filter, which can purify up to 6,000 gallons before needing filter replacement. Learn how to properly sanitize water using methods like boiling or chemical treatments as a backup to your primary water purification system.
Create a Safe Room
Designate a safe room in your home for sheltering during severe weather. Choose an interior room on the lowest level, preferably without windows. Stock this room with emergency supplies, communication devices, and comfort items. For tornado-prone areas, consider installing a FEMA-approved storm shelter. Reinforce the walls and door of your safe room with additional framing and hardware to increase its structural integrity during extreme weather events.
Develop Weather-Specific Skills
Different weather extremes require different survival skills. Learn basic first aid, CPR, and how to use a fire extinguisher. For coastal areas, swimming and water safety skills are crucial. In wildfire-prone regions, understand fire behavior and create defensible space around your property. Practice these skills regularly and consider taking advanced courses in wilderness first aid or Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training to further enhance your preparedness.
Maintain Your Vehicle
Your vehicle can be a lifeline during extreme weather. Keep it well-maintained and equipped with an emergency kit. Include jumper cables, flares, blankets, and a basic tool kit. In snow-prone areas, always keep your gas tank at least half full during winter months to prevent fuel line freezing. Consider installing all-weather or snow tires appropriate for your region and learn how to safely drive in adverse weather conditions.
Stay Informed
Knowledge is power when it comes to extreme weather. Download reliable weather apps like Dark Sky or Weather Underground for real-time updates. Follow local emergency management agencies on social media for the latest information. Remember, conditions can change rapidly, so stay vigilant. Set up emergency alerts on your phone and consider investing in a portable, solar-powered or hand-crank radio for backup communication during power outages.
Practice Evacuation Drills
When seconds count, muscle memory can save lives. Regularly practice evacuation drills with your family, timing how quickly you can gather essentials and leave your home. Have a “go bag” ready for each family member, containing essentials like medications, important documents, and a change of clothes. Create a checklist of last-minute items to grab during an evacuation and keep it easily accessible to ensure nothing critical is forgotten in the rush to leave.
Build Community Connections
During extreme weather events, your neighbors can be your greatest asset. Build relationships within your community and establish a neighborhood watch or preparedness group. Share resources, skills, and information. Remember, a resilient community is better equipped to weather any storm. Organize regular community preparedness meetings or workshops to share knowledge and coordinate efforts for extreme weather response.
Invest in Proper Insurance
Review your insurance policies to ensure adequate coverage for potential weather-related damages. Standard homeowners insurance often doesn’t cover flooding, so consider additional flood insurance if you’re in a high-risk area. Document your belongings with photos or videos for potential insurance claims. Create a detailed home inventory, including serial numbers and receipts for valuable items, and store this information in a secure, off-site location or cloud storage for easy access after a disaster.
34 Best Shotguns of All Time
When it comes to shotguns, few other firearms hold such a range of purpose, heritage, and outright dependability. From the grit of the duck blind to the intensity of a skeet range, shotguns have long been the tool of choice for hunters, competitors, law enforcement, and home defenders alike. Some shotguns on this list helped define their category; others redefined it.
Read More: 34 Best Shotguns of All Time
24 Best Rifles Under $1200 for Preppers, Hunters, and Homesteaders
When it comes to preparedness, a reliable rifle is worth its weight in gold. Thankfully, you don’t need to empty your wallet to get a solid firearm that’ll stand up to the elements and perform when you need it most. Mid-priced rifles offer the perfect balance of affordability and quality, giving you confidence whether you’re out hunting, practicing at the range, or prepping for emergencies. After running thousands of rounds through a variety of rifles over the years, here’s my list of top picks that hit the mark for both value and reliability. These rifles each offer serious bang for your buck, whether you’re looking for your first gun or adding to a growing collection.
Read More: 24 Best Rifles Under $1200 for Preppers, Hunters, and Homesteaders
