Hurricane Survival Strategies

Quick Facts

• Sign up for local emergency alerts via the Hawai’i Emergency Management Agency (HI-EMA).
• Monitor weather forecasts through the National Weather Service (NWS Honolulu).
• Follow updates from local news stations and official government websites.
• Download weather apps like NOAA Weather Radar and enable emergency notifications.

Hurricane Survival Strategies

Stay Informed

Weather conditions can change rapidly, so it’s crucial to stay updated on storm developments.

Create an Emergency Plan

Develop a plan that ensures everyone in your household knows what to do before, during, and after a storm.

Build an Emergency Kit

A well-stocked emergency kit can be a lifesaver during a storm.

• Water: At least one gallon per person per day for seven days.
• Non-perishable food: A seven-day supply of canned goods, energy bars, and dry food.
• Medications: Prescription and over-the-counter medications.
• First aid kit: Bandages, antiseptics, and necessary medical supplies.
• Flashlights and batteries: Keep multiple flashlights and extra batteries handy.
• Portable phone charger: A solar or battery-powered charger is ideal.
• Important documents: Copies of IDs, insurance papers, and medical records in a waterproof bag.

Secure Your Home

Taking preventive measures can reduce damage to your home.

• Reinforce doors and windows with storm shutters or plywood.
• Secure outdoor furniture, grills, and other loose objects.
• Check your roof for loose shingles and fix any weak areas.
• If you live in a flood-prone area, consider using sandbags to prevent water intrusion.

Know Your Flood Zone

Hawaii’s islands have many flood-prone areas.

• Have an evacuation plan ready.
• Keep valuables and electronics elevated.
• Avoid driving through flooded roads—turn around, don’t drown!

Plan for Power Outages

Power outages are common during storms, so prepare by:

• Having flashlights and candles ready.
• Using a generator safely—keep it outside and away from windows to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Keeping your refrigerator and freezer closed as much as possible to preserve food.
• Unplugging electronic devices to prevent damage from power surges.

Be Prepared for Extended Isolation

Storms can cause road closures, supply shortages, and limited communication.

• Having enough supplies for at least two weeks.
• Storing extra propane or charcoal for cooking if you have an outdoor grill.
• Ensuring you have a battery-powered or hand-crank radio to receive emergency updates.

Know When to Evacuate

If authorities issue an evacuation order, follow it immediately.

Prepare Financially

Recovering from a storm can be costly, so take financial precautions:

• Review your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy to ensure it covers hurricane and flood damage.
• Keep some emergency cash on hand, as ATMs and card systems may not work during power outages.
• Document valuable belongings with photos and receipts in case you need to file insurance claims.

Help Your Community

Storm preparedness isn’t just about individual safety; it’s about the whole community.

• Check in on elderly neighbors and those with disabilities.
• Volunteer with local disaster relief organizations.
• Share reliable information to help others prepare.

By taking these proactive steps, you can ensure that you, your family, and your home are as safe as possible during a storm. Remember to stay informed, stay prepared, and stay safe.