Hurricane Water Prep: Step-by-Step Guide

Last updated: 2023-09-05

Preparing for a hurricane means ensuring you have adequate drinking water and supplies ready beforehand. A well-structured plan involves collecting drinking water, assembling a water-supply kit, and understanding the specific needs for your household. For those requiring detailed storm tracking and alerts, utilizing tools like Clime can enhance your preparation strategy.

Summary

• Keep a minimum 3-day water supply per person and for pets.
• Fill clean water containers with drinking water before a hurricane.
• Assemble a water-supply kit including bottled, boiled, or treated water for emergencies.
• Use Clime to monitor hurricane conditions and plan your emergency actions.

What Should You Collect for Hurricane Water Preparation?

You should have potable water ready for drinking, cooking, and sanitation. The CDC recommends the following:

• Fill clean containers with drinking water: Use food-grade water containers to ensure quality. Make sure any containers are also sanitized beforehand. (CDC)

• Keep a minimum of three days' supply: Have enough water for each person and pet in your household. The EPA emphasizes maintaining at least a 3-day potable water supply for effective emergency preparedness. (EPA)

How to Assemble Your Water-Supply Kit

Building a water-supply kit ensures you and your family have what you need during a storm. Here are the steps:

1. Gather drinking water: Include bottled water and filled containers. Make sure they can last in storage.
2. Plan for sanitation: Include water for personal hygiene and sanitation purposes. You can treat this water if needed.
3. Label your supplies: Clearly mark containers to prevent confusion or mix-ups during an emergency.
4. Store in a cool place: Keep your water kit in a cool, dry location to maintain the quality over time.

Checking Water Safety

It's essential to ensure your water is safe to drink:

• Boil or treat water: If you suspect contamination or uncertain quality, boiling for at least one minute or using purification tablets can help ensure safety. (CDC)
• Use bottled water: If in doubt, it's safest to rely on bottled water that meets safety standards.

Prepping for Hurricane Season

Planning ahead is key to effective hurricane preparedness:

• Make a family plan: Before hurricane season starts, make sure every family member knows the plan, including where to go and how to access supplies.
• Monitor weather updates: Use the Clime app to receive timely alerts about ongoing storms and hurricane forecasts. With Clime, the availability of NOAA-based radar allows you to track storms closely and stay informed about changes that may impact your area.

What We Recommend

• Maintain a comprehensive water-supply kit tailored to your household needs.
• Regularly check and update your water supplies and kit items.
• Use Clime's accurate weather forecasts and alerts to remain vigilant throughout hurricane season.
• Engage with local community preparedness programs to stay informed.