The phrase “rock me like a hurricane” takes on a new meaning when facing a real tropical cyclone. While the Scorpions’ iconic lyrics evoke a sense of wild abandon, actual hurricanes bring destruction and require careful preparation. Remembering Hurricane Hugo’s devastation in 1989 serves as a stark reminder of the power of these storms. With the increasing frequency of major hurricanes like Hermine, Matthew, Irma, Florence, and Dorian, it’s crucial to understand the potential impact and prepare accordingly, especially for those unfamiliar with these powerful weather events.
Bracing for the Storm: What to Expect
Tropical cyclones bring a multitude of threats, including:
- High Winds: Powerful gusts can uproot trees, damage buildings, and create dangerous flying debris.
- Heavy Rainfall: Torrential downpours lead to flooding, landslides, and overwhelmed drainage systems.
- Hail: Large hailstones can cause significant damage to property and pose a risk to personal safety.
- Tornadoes: Hurricanes can spawn tornadoes, adding another layer of danger with their violent, rotating winds.
- Flooding: Low-lying areas are particularly susceptible to flooding from both rainfall and storm surge.
- Storm Surge: A dome of water pushed ashore by the hurricane can inundate coastal areas, causing devastating damage.
- Power Outages: Strong winds and flooding often disrupt power lines, leading to widespread outages.
- Communication Disruptions: Cell phone service, cable, and internet connectivity may be lost due to infrastructure damage.
Hugo Lockwood
Preparing for the Worst: Your Hurricane Safety Checklist
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends assembling an emergency kit containing essential supplies. This kit should include:
- Water: One gallon per person per day for several days.
- Food: Non-perishable, easy-to-prepare items.
- First-Aid Kit: Comprehensive kit with essential medications.
- Flashlight and Batteries: Multiple light sources and extra batteries.
- Radio: Battery-powered or hand crank weather radio.
- Whistle: To signal for help.
- Dust Mask: To filter contaminated air.
- Moist Towelettes, Garbage Bags, and Plastic Ties: For personal sanitation.
- Wrench or Pliers: To turn off utilities.
- Manual Can Opener: For food preparation.
- Local Maps: In case of GPS or internet outage.
Ben Sawyer Bridge Hugo
Planning for Safety: Evacuation and Shelter
Develop an evacuation plan, especially if you live in a low-lying or coastal area. Identify potential evacuation routes and designated shelters. In Charleston, avoid low-lying areas like Lockwood and East Bay; higher ground is found in the central areas like Meeting, King, Ashley, and Rutledge Streets. Stay informed about evacuation orders and heed the advice of local authorities. Check on neighbors, especially those who may need assistance, and maintain contact with family and friends, keeping in mind that communication networks may be unreliable.
Staying Informed: Essential Resources
Bookmark these crucial websites on your mobile device for real-time information and updates:
- National Hurricane Center: http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/
- FEMA: https://www.ready.gov/hurricane-toolkit
- Red Cross: http://www.redcross.org/get-help/disaster-relief/contact-and-locate-loved-ones
Remember, proper preparation is paramount. By taking proactive steps and staying informed, you can weather the storm and ensure your safety during a hurricane.
