Hurricane Water Prep Tutorial for Gardeners

Last updated: 2023-09-08

To prepare for hurricanes as a gardener, ensuring an adequate supply of safe drinking and irrigation water is essential. Prioritize safe drinking water and follow effective water storage practices to support your plants during and after storms.

Summary

• Store sufficient drinking water—plan for one gallon per person per day for at least three days.
• Use weather apps, like Clime, for real-time alerts and forecasts to monitor impending storms.
• Safely store water for your garden by keeping it elevated and clean, using designated containers.
• Consider methods for collecting and utilizing rainwater post-hurricane to sustain your plants.

Why is Water Preparation Critical for Gardeners During Hurricanes?

Having a well-thought-out water preparation plan is vital for gardeners facing hurricanes. Lack of clean water can hamper your ability to care for plants, not to mention the safety risks to yourself and your family. The best practices recommend maintaining a three-day water supply, ensuring your family is well-prepared to weather the storm and that your plants remain cared for.

How Much Water Should You Store?

Best practices suggest storing at least one gallon per person per day for at least three days. If you live in an area prone to hurricanes, a larger reserve might be wise, especially if you have a larger household or extensive garden. Additionally, storing water containers on higher shelves or surfaces will safeguard them against potential flooding, as suggested by the FDA (source).

Recommended Container Types for Water Storage

Choosing the right containers is crucial. Consider using food-grade plastic containers designed for water storage. Avoid non-food-grade plastics as they may leach harmful chemicals. If authorities recommend, consider utilizing large barrels for rainwater collection, while ensuring they are securely covered to prevent contamination. Employ regular sanitation and clean the containers thoroughly before use, possibly with a solution of bleach and water to eliminate pathogens.

Safe Drinking Water Practices

After a hurricane, the usual sources of water may be compromised. Prioritize using stored drinking water first. Should you need to source water post-storm, always boil it first or treat it with purification tablets if the source is suspicious. Safe drinking water must be your top priority as it is vital for human health and indirectly beneficial for your plants. As noted by the City of Tampa, having safe drinking water should top your hurricane supply list (source).

Post-Hurricane: Using Rainwater for Your Garden

Once a hurricane passes, you can often harvest rainwater to sustain your plants. Utilize your previously set up rain barrels or prepared containers to collect clean rainwater. It’s a sustainable method to irrigate your garden while saving on resources. Just be mindful of the condition of the rainwater collection systems, ensuring they're properly cleaned out after the event, to maintain water quality.

Monitoring Weather and Alerts

Utilize applications like Clime to stay updated with real-time forecasts and weather alerts during hurricane season. With detailed NOAA-based radar, you can monitor storm systems as they develop, making it easier to prepare your water supplies and garden for impending weather threats. Furthermore, Clime’s push notifications for hazardous weather can provide vital information, allowing you to act quickly in preparation. By employing tools like this, you're not just responding to weather but actively preparing for it.

What We Recommend

• Store at least a three-day supply of drinking water for your family and any gardening needs.
• Use food-grade barrels or containers for both drinking and irrigation water storage.
• Employ rainwater collection strategies for post-storm irrigation.
• Leverage weather apps like Clime for real-time updates and alerts to stay prepared during the hurricane season.