Weathering The Storm

Tropical Storm Helene is headed north over the Florida Panhandle, and looks like it will be going through the states west of the seaboard.  Even if the storm intensifies to Hurricane status, it won't be hitting my vicinity, but it does serve as a reminder that we should always remain prepared.

I don't expect any unusual heavy winds, but the fact that the storm will be pumping water into the atmosphere upwind of me tells me that I can expect heavier than normal rain.  Since this September has already had a fair amount of rainfall, this will undoubtedly result in local area flooding.

What kind of preparations should one make if they are potentially in the path of a Hurricane?  Part of this depend on location.  If right on the coast, be prepared to evacuate.  Boarding up windows never hurts.  Having supplies of food and water is a good idea anywhere.  Depending on the temperatures in the area, you may want backup heat and electricity.  A car's gas tank should be kept full, and if you can safely store additional fuel, it may come in handy.  Since a hurricane can knock out the electrical grid, this means noone without a backup generator will have power.  This includes gas stations, the water treatment plant, and so forth.  Considering what could happen allows you to put backup measures in place.

As I mentioned, this storm won't be hitting us, and at most will cause heavy rain.  That doesn't worry me at all, since my home is located near the top of the watershed, with no real collection area dumping into my yard.  Yes, in years past, I have seen minor flooding in the yard, but never so much that the french drain I put in couldn't handle it.  I am more concerned with other effects of heavy weather, such as fallen trees and such.

Are you in the path of the storm?  Area you in an area that may see a storm sometime in the future?  If so, then you should consider how you can disaster proof your life.

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