Hurricane Preparation Tips for Homeowners in the Southeast 

Hurricane season can be a stressful time for homeowners in the Southeast, a region prone to tropical storms, hurricanes, and the severe weather that accompanies them. Whether you live along the Gulf Coast, in the Carolinas, or further inland, it’s crucial to be prepared for hurricanes and tropical storms. 

Let’s review some things you’ll want to do before a hurricane makes landfall.  

Secure Your Home’s Exterior 

In the Southeast, hurricanes and tropical storms can bring high winds, heavy rain, and flying debris that can cause significant damage to homes. Flying debris, such as outdoor furniture or grills, can easily damage windows and pose a safety hazard. You don’t want to risk it! 

Trim Trees and Remove Loose Objects 

The Southeast is known for its lush greenery, but overgrown trees and loose items in your yard can turn into dangerous projectiles during a storm. Trim back branches near your home and secure outdoor furniture, grills, and other items that could be picked up by strong winds. It’s better to bring them inside if you can.  

Prepare an Emergency Kit 

Whether you’re riding out the storm or evacuating, it’s important to have a first-aid kit on hand. You can purchase first-aid kits that come with essentials like bandages and antiseptics. However, making your own can better meet the specific needs of you and your family.  

Whether you buy a first-aid kit, or make your own, be sure it includes the following:  

Stock Up on Non-Perishable Food and Water 

It’s important to have at least three days’ worth of non-perishable food and water per person. Choose items that don’t require cooking or refrigeration, such as canned goods, dried fruit, and granola bars.  

Pack a Flashlight, Extra Batteries, and a Phone Charger 

Hurricanes often knock out power for extended periods. A flashlight with extra batteries, a battery-powered, solar-powered, hand-crank phone charger, and other battery-operated essentials will help keep you safe and connected. 

Stay Informed and Have a Plan 

The Southeast experiences a wide range of hurricane-related weather conditions, from coastal storm surges to inland flooding and tornadoes. Staying informed and having a plan in place will help you react quickly and effectively. 

Monitor Local Weather Alerts 

Hurricanes and tropical storms can change direction quickly. Keep a close eye on weather updates from local news channels or apps that track storms. This will help you stay informed about the storm’s progress and any potential evacuation orders.  

TIP: Local governments also offer weather alerts. Make sure to subscribe to severe weather alerts in your area.  

Identify Evacuation Routes and Shelters 

If you live in a coastal area, such as parts of Florida, Georgia, or the Carolinas, it’s crucial to know your evacuation routes in advance. Inland residents in areas prone to flooding should also be aware of nearby shelters and safe zones. 

Keep Important Documents Safe 

Store important documents like insurance policies, identification, and medical records in a waterproof container. This is especially important in flood-prone areas, as water damage can destroy critical paperwork. 

Protect Your Home from Flooding 

Flooding is one of the most common and destructive effects of hurricanes in the Southeast. Even inland areas can experience flash flooding due to the heavy rainfall that hurricanes bring. 

Review Your Insurance and Emergency Contacts 

Hurricanes can cause significant property damage, so it’s important to make sure your home is properly insured and that you have the right contacts in place before a storm strikes. 

Review Your Homeowners Insurance 

Standard homeowners insurance policies don’t always cover flood damage, which can be a major concern in the Southeast. Check your policy to ensure you’re covered for both wind and flood damage or consider purchasing additional coverage if necessary.  

Create a List of Emergency Contacts 

Make a list of emergency contacts, including local emergency services, utility companies, and your insurance provider. Keep this list somewhere easily accessible during a storm. 

Document Your Belongings 

Taking photos or videos of your home and belongings can be helpful when filing an insurance claim after the storm. This documentation will make the claims process smoother and ensure you get the appropriate compensation for any damage. 

Make Sure You’re Prepared for Storms

Ted Dryce

Content Writer

Ted is an SEO Content Writer who has been with Groundworks since 2021. He’s covered home repair topics ranging from crawl space encapsulation to regional soil conditions. When he’s not working, Ted is performing improv comedy and working on his own creative projects.