Approaching Hurricane? Learn How to Be Prepared! (Credit: National Hurricane Center)

DISCUSSION: In light of Hurricane Harvey battering the Texas coast, tropical storm safety is of utmost importance. The first step one must take is to note of any watches and warnings issued by the National Weather Service for the area. These watches and warnings can be related to storm surge, flooding, and high winds.
 
Many people react to the approach of a storm by heading to the local supermarket for food and water. While this is extremely important, food and water should be included in your basic disaster supplies kit, listed here. In addition, any necessary medication should be obtained as soon as possible before the storm hits.
 
If waiting out a storm, there are two very important things to be cautious of. First, tornados are often known to spawn from hurricanes. Listen to your local radio station or news station on television (if power has not yet been lost, and particularly at night), should a tornado form in the area. In addition, if one is in the calm “eye” of the storm, it may seem like it is over. However, once the eye passes, the winds will change direction and quickly return to full strength.
 
In severe situations, rescue personnel must save people from their homes. If evacuations are mentioned for any storm, they are highly encouraged.
 
The full guide for hurricane preparedness can be found here.
 
To learn more about weather preparedness and safety, be sure to visit the Global Weather and Climate Center!

©2017 Meteorologist Nicholas Quaglieri