Hurricane or Tropical Storm Watches and Warnings
It is important to know the difference between hurricane or tropical storm watches and warnings.
Watches
A hurricane or tropical storm watch means that, within 36 hours, the threat of a hurricane or tropical storm exists for designated islands.
Procedures
When a hurricane or tropical storm watch is issued:
- Fuel family vehicles.
- Store and secure outdoor objects such as lawn furniture and other loose lightweight objects such as toys, garden tools, and garbage cans.
- Prepare to cover all window and door openings with boards, shutters, or other shielding materials.
- Check food and water supplies.
- Have clean, air-tight containers on hand to store at least two weeks of drinking water (14 gallons per person), and stock up on canned provisions.
- Keep a small cooler with frozen gel packs handy for packing refrigerated items.
- Check prescription medicines - obtain at least 10 days to two weeks supply.
- Stock up on extra batteries for radios, flashlights, and lanterns.
- Check and replenish first-aid supplies.
- Have on hand an extra supply of cash.
Warnings
A hurricane or tropical storm warning means that, within 24 hours, hurricane or tropical storm conditions are favorable for designated areas.
Procedures
When a hurricane or tropical storm warning is issued:
- Follow instructions issued by civil defense.
- Leave immediately if ordered to do so.
- Complete preparation activities, such as boarding up windows and storing loose objects.
- Wedge sliding glass doors to prevent their lifting from their tracks.
- Turn up your refrigerator to maximum cold and don't open unless necessary.
- Evacuate areas that might be affected by storm surge flooding.
- If evacuating, leave early and leave food and water for pets (shelters will not take them).
- Notify neighbors and a family member outside of the warned area of your evacuation plans.
- Use phone only for emergencies.