Hurricane and severe weather season can be extremely unpredictable, as can be the recovery from severe storms. Months have passed since Hurricane Maria struck Puerto Rico, and nearly 200,000 families and businesses — 16% of the island — remain without power.

It is incumbent upon those living in areas at highest risk of being impacted by hurricanes to take storm preparations into their own hands. Taking small steps before the storm hits and knocks out your power can save a lot of headaches and heartache when it’s too late. Being prepared can reduce fear, anxiety, and losses that accompany disasters.

Some important tips include stockpiling enough emergency supplies to last you, your loved ones and your pets for at least three days. The emergency kits should include bottled water, non-perishable food, prescription drugs you are taking, emergency radio and a DIY phone charger.

Experts also advice to keep handy changes of underwear, comfortable shoes and clean wool socks.

Hurricane and Severe Weather Season

Mark McGinnis, an authority in forensic meteorology and an expert in weather hazard planning and weather analysis joined me to share emergency planning methods. His depth of experience in weather preparedness as it relates to increasing safety and reducing associated losses is highly relevant to home owners.

During our chat, Mark provided tips on how to best prepare your home and family for the coming hurricane season and avoid the troubles that can accompany these storms.

Hurricane and Severe Weather Season