Hurricane Ernesto hammered down on Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands on Wednesday, leaving over half of Puerto Rico without power and some families without water. According to NBC News, it also produced over ten inches of rain, creating dangerous flood watches.
The level 1 hurricane is now headed for Bermuda and is expected to increase to level 3 by Friday.
In its current trajectory, Ernesto may affect east coast beaches but leave mainland USA untouched. However, hurricanes can change paths, so it’s essential to know what preparations to make in the event that happens.
Know What To Do Before a Hurricane
Hurricanes, with their strong winds, heavy rains, and in-land floods, significantly increase the chance of tornados. They begin over the ocean and move inland, creating dangerous rip currents.
According to Ready.Gov, the best way to prepare for hurricanes is to sign up for local weather alerts, plan evacuation routes, pack a go-bag, and stock up on emergency supplies. It’s also crucial to heed local authorities’ advice, especially regarding evacuation.
How to Prepare Your Home for a Hurricane
Preparing your house for a hurricane can help prevent some types of damage and help you in the event you need to file a homeowner’s insurance claim.
Assess Your Roof and Siding
Check for missing shingles or loose siding and secure pieces as needed.
Clean out Gutters and Downspouts
Hurricanes produce heavy rain that can cause serious foundation issues if not properly directed away from the home. The best way to ensure water flows outward is to clean your gutters and downspouts.
Install a Sewer Backflow Valve
When sewer treatment plants are flooded by heavy rains, sewage or flood water can flow back into a building, wreaking havoc. Sewer backflow valves prevent this. Depending on the type and installation, backflow valves range from $30 to $600.
Secure and Anchor Loose Outdoor Items
Store outdoor furniture and toys in the garage or home and anchor items, like gas grills and propane tanks, that you can’t bring indoors. You should also anchor your trampoline.
Ensure Your Sump Pump Has a Battery Backup
Failed sump pumps can lead to a flooded basement, ruined flooring and drywall, and lots of mold. Since hurricanes occur in tandem with power outages, ensure that your sump pump has a battery backup to prevent extreme damage.
Stock Up on Protective Materials
Ready.gov recommends that residents in hurricane-prone areas stock up on protective items such as plywood, large sheets of plastic, and sandbags.
Reinforce Your Home and Garage
If extreme winds are expected, brace your garage door and utilize your storm shutters. If you live in an area that frequently experiences bad weather, consider installing hurricane straps or clips to prevent your roof from being blown off during high winds.
Check Your Insurance Policy
Most standard homeowner’s insurance policies don’t provide flood insurance. Check your policy or call your insurance agent to ensure you have the proper coverage ahead of time.
Prepare for Power Outages
Every home should have a power outage kit with flashlights, candles, extra batteries, water, three days’ worth of nonperishable food items, medication, and important documents. Also, put extra pillows and blankets near your emergency kit so they’re easy to locate.
