Big Island Hurricane Survival: Your Guide to Safe and Secure Housing

Quick Facts

• Identify your evacuation zone and have multiple routes planned.
• Secure your home: reinforce windows and doors, clear debris.
• Prepare a disaster supply kit with food, water, medications, and important documents.
• Develop a communication plan with family and friends.
• Consider a generator for power outages.
• Know the location of community shelters.
• Stock up on non-perishable food and water.
• Charge electronic devices and keep extra batteries on hand.
• Fill your gas tank in advance.
• Stay informed about weather updates from local authorities.

Weathering the Storm: Hurricane Preparedness for Big Island Homes

Hawaii’s idyllic shores and volcanic peaks might conjure images of paradise, but the Big Island, like every other island, faces the threat of hurricanes. Being prepared can make all the difference in staying safe and minimizing damage to your property during these powerful storms. HawaiiEliteRealEstate.com understands the unique challenges faced by Big Island homeowners, and we’re here to guide you through crucial hurricane preparedness steps.

Hawaii’s Big Island Hurricane Risk:

Protecting your loved ones and your Big Island investment begins with understanding the potential impact of a hurricane. These storms bring heavy rains, strong winds, and storm surges, all of which can cause significant property damage. Coastal communities are particularly vulnerable to storm surge, which can inundate homes and businesses. Even inland areas can experience flooding and landslides due to torrential rainfall.

Knowing Your Risks

Take a moment to assess your specific risk level. Do you live in a hurricane-prone zone? Is your home elevated or situated near the coast? Understanding your vulnerabilities allows you to prioritize preparedness measures and make informed decisions.

Building a Resilient Home

Investing in hurricane-resistant features for your Big Island home can provide a significant layer of protection. Here are some key considerations:

• Roof: A sturdy roof with reinforced straps and hurricane clips can withstand high winds. Consider metal roofing options, which are highly wind-resistant.
• Windows and Doors: Invest in impact-resistant windows and shutters or hurricane-rated doors to prevent shattering and wind intrusion.
• Landscaping: Trim overhanging trees and remove dead branches to minimize wind damage. Secure loose objects in your yard, as debris can become dangerous projectiles during a storm.

Preparing for the Inevitable

While mitigating risks is essential, it’s equally important to have a well-defined plan for when a hurricane threatens.

• Emergency Kit: Assemble a comprehensive kit containing non-perishable food, water, first-aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, a weather radio, and essential medications.
• Communication Plan: Establish a reliable communication plan with family members. Determine a meeting point in case of evacuation and agree on contact methods.
• Evacuation Routes: Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes and shelters in your area. Know where to go and how to get there safely.

Putting Knowledge into Action

Remembering that knowledge is power is key to navigating hurricane season effectively. HawaiiEliteRealEstate.com is dedicated to promoting community safety. We encourage you to stay informed about weather updates, heed official warnings, and take proactive steps to safeguard your Big Island home and loved ones.

Hurricane Readiness Checklist:

• Inspect your roof for damage and secure loose shingles.
• Trim trees and remove debris from your yard.
• Reinforce doors and windows with shutters or impact-resistant film.
• Stock your emergency kit with essentials: water, food, first-aid supplies, medications, a flashlight, batteries, a weather radio, and important documents.
• Charge all electronic devices and have a backup power source.
• Create a communication plan with your family and designate a meeting point.

Contact Hawaii Elite Realtors

Need help finding a hurricane-resilient home on the Big Island? Give HawaiiEliteRealEstate.com a call today at 808-866-6593. We’ll guide you through the process and help you find the perfect property to suit your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Big Island Hurricane Preparedness: Housing FAQs

Q: What kind of housing is safest during a hurricane on the Big Island?

A: Strong, structurally sound buildings built to withstand high winds are the safest. Look for buildings with reinforced concrete or steel framing, impact-resistant windows and doors, and a strong roof.

Q: Should I board up my windows?

A: Yes, boarding up windows with plywood is recommended to protect them from flying debris.

Q: What if I live in a mobile home?

A: Mobile homes are extremely vulnerable to hurricanes. If possible, evacuate to a sturdier building. If evacuation is not possible, find a designated hurricane shelter.

Q: Are there designated hurricane shelters on the Big Island?

A: Yes, the County of Hawaii sets up emergency shelters during hurricanes. It’s important to know their locations and have a plan.

Q: When should I evacuate?

A: Follow official evacuation orders issued by local authorities.

Q: What should I bring to a hurricane shelter?

A: Pack essentials like water, non-perishable food, medication, a first-aid kit, flashlight, radio, and important documents.

Q: Can I return home after a hurricane has passed?

A: Only return home when local authorities deem it safe. There may be downed power lines, debris, and flooding.

Q: What if my home is damaged?

A: Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the damage.

Resources & Links

Here are 5 relevant and real clickable HTML links related to Big Island hurricane preparedness housing:

• Hawaii Emergency Management Agency (HIEMA) – Hurricane Preparedness
• American Red Cross – Hurricane Preparedness
• Hawaii County Civil Defense
• Ready.gov – Hurricanes
• FEMA – Hurricanes

For Buyers & Sellers

Big Island Hurricane Preparedness Housing: A Reality Check for Buyers and Sellers

As a resident of the Big Island, the threat of hurricanes is a constant reality. This reality has a profound impact on both home buyers and sellers.

For buyers, it means carefully considering not just the home itself, but also its resilience to severe weather. Questions arise:

• Is the house built to withstand hurricane-force winds?
• How high is the elevation and proximity to the coast?
• Do I have access to proper insurance coverage?

For sellers, understanding the impact of hurricane preparedness is crucial for attracting buyers.

• Highlighting hurricane-resistant features can make your home more appealing.
• Being transparent about potential flood risks and taking measures to mitigate them (e.g., elevating utilities, landscaping) instills confidence.
• Correctly addressing insurance complexities for potential buyers smooths the transaction process.

Ultimately, both buyers and sellers need to recognize that hurricane preparedness is not just a checkbox item, but a foundational aspect of owning property on the Big Island. Open communication, thorough research, and a commitment to building resilience are essential for navigating the housing market in hurricane-prone areas.