How to prepare for a tropical storm or bad weather while on vacation.
It’s hurricane season on the Gulf, which runs from June 1st - November 30th of 2021.
These are prime travel dates, which means if you are coming down to Okaloosa Island, to be prepared for beautiful weather but also be prepared for quick arriving storms, especially those coming out of the Gulf of Mexico, which more often than not, can turn into a tropical storm or hurricane, depending on the conditions. There’s nothing to be afraid of when it comes to bad weather while on vacation, but there are a few tips to help you and your family be prepared for any weather situations that might arise on your trip.
One of the first things that you should do to prepare for a storm is to make a family emergency plan and kit to handle any issues that may arise quickly. The inside of this kit should include everything from emergency food and water for a few days if the power goes out, along with an emergency medicine supply just in case there is no way off the island for a few days. You should also include emergency power sources like flashlights, radios, battery banks, etc. (also don’t forget batteries for all your equipment). Include whatever important documents that you have brought with you.
Secondly, in the case of an evacuation, learn the community hurricane evacuation routes/community disaster preparedness plans and find higher ground. This can’t be stressed enough, most tropical storms don’t call for an evacuation, but it doesn’t hurt to be prepared so that you can act quickly.
Next, make plans to secure your property, such as strapping things down or weighing them down. Make sure your windows are closed and that you are far away from them. If you are in a building facing the Gulf, it is advised to put as many walls between you and the Gulf as possible. You can do this by going into most bathrooms, as they are the safest places to be during bad weather. Make sure to get ahead of the storm by freezing water bottles for later and turn the refrigerator thermostat to its coldest setting and keep its doors closed.
Lastly, Power up and Prepare by filling your car or truck’s gas tank, charge your phone, and have some extra fuel nearby or a small generator if it’s possible.