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NEWS | July 24, 2019

2019 Hurricane season readiness

By Airman 1st Class Sarah Dowe 633rd Air Base Wing Public Affairs

Hurricane season began June 1, and continues through November 30. The peak risk of hurricanes in the Hampton Roads area occurs late August through late October.

The greatest threat from hurricanes is the flooding and flood surge that occurs in tidal areas.

In order to better prepare, residents are encouraged to determine in which evacuation zone their home is located. 

“Zones are designated A through D,” said Daniel Wyrick, 633rd Civil Engineer Squadron emergency management specialist. “Zones provide residents with clarity on whether they should evacuate in an emergency or shelter at home, based on their physical street address and the nature of the emergency.”

One of the best precautions people can take is creating a detailed plan, Wyrick said.

“Develop a plan for where your family would relocate to,” said Wyrick. “Educate your family on your plan, and what should be in your emergency kit. Review your plan and your kit annually before hurricane season and ensure it’s ready.”

Your family should plan and prepare a kit of emergency supplies tailored to their specific needs, focusing on these areas:

  • Non-perishable food/water (1 gallon per person, per day, for at least 3 days)
  • Emergency communications (a copy of important phone numbers)
  • Medical needs, prescription medications
  • Critical documents, copies of insurance policies, bank account records, identification cards
  • Tools and safety items, can opener for food
  • Moist hygiene and sanitation towelettes, plastic bags for sanitation
  • Protective gear (dust masks, plastic sheeting, reflective belts or vests)
  • Comfort items

A go-bag for each family member should consist of personal items:

  • Clothing
  • Sturdy shoes
  • Warm clothing
  • Rain/waterproof outer clothing and other items that complement your emergency supply kit

Other important things to have in mind:

  • Keep your cars fuel tank full
  • Have cash on hand
  • Make sure your Form 33, Hurricane Evacuation Preference sheet is updated

Having renters insurance and/or flood insurance can help in the event of a hurricane, but people should keep in mind that most property insurance policies don’t cover flood losses.

Pet owners need to look at their pet as a family member and know what their needs are.

“Have a pet carrier, have a backup of any meds, and of course food and water,” said Wyrick. “Also, if you’re planning to relocate to a shelter, ensure it’s a pet-friendly shelter before you arrive to avoid stress on you and your pet.”

For more information about to pack and prepare go to https://www.vaemergency.gov/prepare/supply-kit/

For more information specific to Hurricanes in the Hampton Roads area go to https://www.vaemergency.gov/threats/hurricanes/

To see if your home is in an evacuation zone go to https://www.vaemergency.gov/hurricane-evacuation-zone-lookup/