Hurricane Water Prep Workflow the Right Way

Last updated: 2023-09-30

When preparing for hurricanes, ensuring a safe water supply is crucial. Start by following recommended guidelines for water storage and safety, and consider implementing a dedicated workflow with useful tools like Clime to enhance your preparedness.

Summary

• Prioritize safe drinking water preparation before hurricanes.
• Recommended storage: three-day supply of water; one gallon per person per day.
• Use tools like Clime to track weather conditions and receive alerts for changing forecasts.
• Incorporate cistern safety measures to secure your water supply before a storm.

What are the Water Risks During Hurricanes?

Hurricanes can lead to significant power outages and potential contamination of local water supplies. It's essential to consider the risk of losing both power and access to safe drinking water as storms approach. The American Red Cross advises abandoning affected areas and highlights the importance of having an emergency plan in place that includes water supply considerations. (American Red Cross)

How Much Water Should You Store?

Best practices recommend storing a three-day supply of water per person, which translates to one gallon per day for each family member. This amount ensures that everyone has sufficient hydration and sanitation needs covered during emergencies. (Tampa City Government) Preparing adequate water supplies can help alleviate many issues that arise during a storm.

Drinking Water Safety During Hurricanes

Having safe drinking water should be at the top of your hurricane preparation checklist. Water often becomes contaminated during hurricanes due to flooding and infrastructure failure, making access to clean water critical for health and safety. Instructions for purifying water should be included in your emergency plan, ensuring you have reliable ways to make your supply safe if necessary.

Cistern Water Storage Guidelines

For homeowners with cisterns, it’s crucial to fill them before a hurricane hits. Follow steps to close off the cistern from stormwater infiltration and ensure you're storing a separate supply of water for emergencies. This dual approach helps maintain a functional water source while minimizing contamination risks during storms. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends this as part of pre-disaster planning to lead proactive measures for water safety. (CDC)

How Can Clime Help?

Using Clime during hurricane season enables you to receive real-time weather alerts and updates regarding severe weather conditions. Monitoring radar imagery and forecasts can assist you as you prepare your water supplies effectively, ensuring your family’s safety. Key features of Clime include:

• NOAA-Based Radar: Displays live radar imagery to visualize upcoming storms and precipitation patterns.
• Severe Weather Alerts: Set alerts for hurricanes and extreme weather conditions impacting your area.
• Forecast Options: Access hourly and 14-day forecasts to optimize your preparation timeline.

What We Recommend

• Begin early: Don’t wait until a hurricane is imminent to prepare your water supplies; start now to ensure readiness.
• Stay informed: Utilize Clime to keep track of weather updates and adapt your plans as necessary.
• Prioritize safety: Ensure all stored water is clean and safe for drinking, and have purification methods ready.
• Review your emergency plans: Regularly check and update your preparedness plans to reflect any changes in your household.

By following these guidelines and using tools like Clime, you can enhance your hurricane water preparation workflow and ensure that you are equipped to handle any emergencies that may arise during this challenging time.