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Hurricane Preparedness Guide

Kelly Berg

Hurricane Season

Hurricane season runs from June 1st through November 30th, peaking from mid-August to late October in North Carolina. Stay informed by visiting nhc.noaa.gov for current hurricane information and check out the hurricane activity map below for real-time updates.

Hurricane Activity Map

https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/xgtwo/two_atl_0d0.png?011800

Prepare

Prepare for the storm by assembling a disaster kit and first aid kit. Store items in airtight plastic bags and keep the kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers like plastic bins or a duffel bag. Make sure all family members know where the kit is stored and keep a separate emergency kit in your car in case you are stranded.

  • First Aid Kit
    • Masks
    • Hand sanitizer
    • Cleaning products
    • Sanitizing wipes
    • Bandaids
  • Disaster Kit
    • Water: One gallon per person per day for at least three days for drinking and sanitation.
    • Food: Non-perishable food for at least three days (e.g., canned goods, peanut butter, granola bars). Don’t forget a manual can opener.
    • Food Prep Items: Charcoal, wood, or gas for cooking in case of power outages.
    • Ice: Freeze gallon jugs or ziplock bags of water to keep your refrigerator cool during power outages.
    • Clothing and Bedding: Prepare for both hot and cold weather, as power outages may affect heating and cooling.
    • First Aid Kit: Ensure it is fully stocked and easily accessible.
    • Batteries: For radios and flashlights.
    • Flashlights and Matches: Essential during power outages.
    • Radio: Battery-powered or hand-crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert.
    • Whistle: To signal for help.
    • Tools: Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities.
    • Medications: Both prescription and non-prescription (e.g., pain relievers, antacids).
flat lay of a collection of items for disaster preparedness and emergency planning - disaster supply kit stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images
Photo by Getty Images

For a complete guide on building your emergency supplies kit, visit ReadyNC or the NC Disaster Information Center.

Plan

Evacuation Planning

  • Hurricanes pose physical dangers like storm surges, flooding, and high winds. If your area is ordered to evacuate, do so quickly and calmly. Don’t forget your emergency kit.
    • Know Your Zone: If you live in a coastal community, determine if you’re in a predetermined coastal evacuation zone by visiting Know Your Zone. Coastal counties may use these zones to order evacuations.
    • Evacuation Routes: Review your evacuation routes ahead of time. Have a primary route and an alternate planned.
  • If you need to evacuate, consider these options:
    • Stay with family or friends inland.
    • Book a room at an inland hotel.
    • Find a local storm shelter below.
Hurricane Preparedness Guide

Stay Informed

  • Visit ReadyNC.org for information on hurricanes and what to do.
  • Register for emergency alerts from your county’s emergency management agency.
  • Follow your local government on social media.
  • Subscribe to National Weather Service updates.
  • Follow North Carolina Emergency Management on X (formerly known as Twitter) and Facebook.

Hurricane Resources

  • NC 2-1-1: Dial 2-1-1 for assistance with finding shelters, evacuation routes, storm clean-up, and more. This service is available 24/7 in English and Spanish. Visit NC211.org.
  • Ready NC: Visit ReadyNC.org for comprehensive storm preparation information and download the free app for weather conditions, traffic updates, shelters, and more.

Web Resources

Shelters

  • DHHS: Find a local storm shelter through ncdps.gov
  • FEMA: Text “SHELTER” and your zip code to 4FEMA (43362) for a list of open shelters. Example: Text “SHELTER 28401” for Wilmington, NC.
  • Red Cross Shelters: Visit the Red Cross for a list of available shelters.
  • Orange County Updates: Text OCStorm to 888-777 for shelter updates, road closures, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • What should I do if a hurricane is approaching?
    • Stay informed by monitoring local weather updates and alerts. If you are in an evacuation zone, use the resources listed in this guide and ensure you have a disaster kit ready to go and follow evacuation orders.
  • How do I know if I need to evacuate?
    • Check if you are living in an evacuation zone by visiting Know Your Zone. Listen to local authorities but if you are in a flood-prone area, live in a mobile home, or are by the coast, it is safer to evacuate.
  • Where can I find shelter during a hurricane?
    • You can find a list of open shelters by texting “SHELTER” and your zip code to 4FEMA (43362). Alternatively, visit the Red Cross or check with your local emergency management agency.
  • How can I keep my pets safe during a hurricane?
    • Include your pets in your emergency evacuation plan. If you have pets, make sure your disaster kit includes pet food, water, medication, and comfort items. Ensure your pets have ID tags and/or microchipping in case of emergency.
  • What should I do if I can’t evacuate?
    • If you absolutely cannot evacuate, find a safe room in your house. Try to find a room on the lowest level with no windows, such as a bathroom.
  • How can I protect my home during a hurricane?
    • Secure outdoor furniture, board up windows, and trim your trees/shrubs to reduce debris. If hurricanes are bad in your area, consider installing hurricane shutters.