LIFE IS LIKE A HURRICANE!
~ Christine's Hurricane Resource Page ~
*Hurricane Awareness*
*Hurricane Education*
*Hurricane Preparation*
Become Aware, Prepare Now, Worry Less
Hurricane Season 2025 is here!
This page compiles all of my best tips and resources that I utilize for the entire duration of hurricane season each and every year.
I do hope you can find even some of it helpful to you in any way. Please definitely share this resource page with anyone you know who is in a hurricane prone area!
This page compiles all of my best tips and resources that I utilize for the entire duration of hurricane season each and every year.
I do hope you can find even some of it helpful to you in any way. Please definitely share this resource page with anyone you know who is in a hurricane prone area!
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And be sure to join me on YouTube! |
www.youtube.com/@christinepieper
Subscribe to my YouTube Channel - Christine Pieper - as I discuss hurricane related topics all the time between June and November each year!
Plus, here's my entire LIFE IS LIKE A HURRICANE playlist on YouTube:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLa7nooQvf7ITbxeOPj4Dih-BASPu7S2_Y&si=aqEj51BcPwGGtgt1
Plus, here's my entire LIFE IS LIKE A HURRICANE playlist on YouTube:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLa7nooQvf7ITbxeOPj4Dih-BASPu7S2_Y&si=aqEj51BcPwGGtgt1
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HURRICANE SEASON QUICK FACTS:
* Hurricane season spans six months
*Hurricane season runs from June 1st through November 30th annually
* There are five categories of hurricanes:
1) Category 1 - Sustained winds 74-95 miles per hour
2) Category 2 - Sustained winds 96-110 miles per hour
3) Category 3 - Sustained winds 111-129 miles per hour
4) Category 4 - Sustained winds 130-156 miles per hour
5) Category 5 - Sustained winds over 156 miles per hour
* The height, or peak, of hurricane season is September 10th
*The busiest months for hurricanes are August, September, and October
*Hurricane season runs from June 1st through November 30th annually
* There are five categories of hurricanes:
1) Category 1 - Sustained winds 74-95 miles per hour
2) Category 2 - Sustained winds 96-110 miles per hour
3) Category 3 - Sustained winds 111-129 miles per hour
4) Category 4 - Sustained winds 130-156 miles per hour
5) Category 5 - Sustained winds over 156 miles per hour
* The height, or peak, of hurricane season is September 10th
*The busiest months for hurricanes are August, September, and October
Important Hurricane Terminology:
*RAPID INTENSIFICATION:
According to the National Hurricane Center - rapid intensification is defined as a significant and rapid increase in a storm's intensity, specifically a rise of at least 30 knots (about 35 miles per hour) in maximum sustained winds within a 24 hour period.
According to the National Hurricane Center - rapid intensification is defined as a significant and rapid increase in a storm's intensity, specifically a rise of at least 30 knots (about 35 miles per hour) in maximum sustained winds within a 24 hour period.
Glossary of Terms -
from the National Weather Service:
To brush up on all your hurricane terminology, the NWS offers a large glossary of terms via the link below. Be sure to check it out and bookmark their page of definitions for future reference!
https://forecast.weather.gov/glossary.php
P.S. There's a wealth of information there--so grab your reading glasses, and your coffee.
https://forecast.weather.gov/glossary.php
P.S. There's a wealth of information there--so grab your reading glasses, and your coffee.
Now, let's prepare...
First, we want to avoid THIS:
So, let's make our HURRICANE KIT - NOW:
We'll start with food and drinks and any perishables. Here's what I make sure I am stocked up on all season long.
FOOD & DRINK:
Cereal
Granola Bars
Pop Tarts
Crackers
Nuts
Pretzels
Peanut Butter
Bread
Apples
Bananas
Canned foods - lots of canned foods such as: beans, pork and beans, chick peas, a variety of canned soups such as Campbell's - chicken noodle soup, chicken with rice soup, minestrone soup.
Bottled Water - including cases of bottled water as well as gallons of water - enough for seven days per person.
Powdered water flavor packets
Gatorade / Powerade
Canned Carbonated Water
Granola Bars
Pop Tarts
Crackers
Nuts
Pretzels
Peanut Butter
Bread
Apples
Bananas
Canned foods - lots of canned foods such as: beans, pork and beans, chick peas, a variety of canned soups such as Campbell's - chicken noodle soup, chicken with rice soup, minestrone soup.
Bottled Water - including cases of bottled water as well as gallons of water - enough for seven days per person.
Powdered water flavor packets
Gatorade / Powerade
Canned Carbonated Water
Next, let's gather up any helpful tools and gadgets from around the house. Or, we need to purchase what we don't have now, early in the season, so that we have them later in the season when they may become really important.
TOOLS & GADGETS:
Batteries - a variety of kinds and types.
Flashlights - multiple - I place one in each room of the house before each storm.
Screwdrivers
Pocket knife
Can opener
Duck tape
Extension cords
Laptop / iPad / Other Electronics and their charging cords
Headphones
Cell phones and their chargers
Power Banks for cell phones - I charge them fully before each storm.
Watch
Candles - The tall, scentless candles from the Dollar Tree are great for this purpose!
Aim & Flames
Matches
Pens
Paper
Flashlights - multiple - I place one in each room of the house before each storm.
Screwdrivers
Pocket knife
Can opener
Duck tape
Extension cords
Laptop / iPad / Other Electronics and their charging cords
Headphones
Cell phones and their chargers
Power Banks for cell phones - I charge them fully before each storm.
Watch
Candles - The tall, scentless candles from the Dollar Tree are great for this purpose!
Aim & Flames
Matches
Pens
Paper
Next, let's remember any personal items!
BASIC TOILETRIES & PERSONAL ITEMS:
Medicine - over the counter like Tylenol, aspirin
Prescriptions - make sure they are filled!
Baby wipes / cleaning wipes
Bandaids
Antibiotic ointments
Rubbing alcohol
Soap
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Deodorant
Shampoo
Blankets
Pillows
Clothes - layers, pants, shorts, socks, underwear, short sleeves, long sleeves, sweatshirt, hoodie
Sunglasses
Hats
Bug repellent
Sunblock
Umbrellas
Baggies
Plastic bags - garbage bags
Books
Coloring books / art supplies
Journal
Important documents - homeowners / rental insurance, other legal documents [store these in a Tupperware style file crate that does not get wet]
Prescriptions - make sure they are filled!
Baby wipes / cleaning wipes
Bandaids
Antibiotic ointments
Rubbing alcohol
Soap
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Deodorant
Shampoo
Blankets
Pillows
Clothes - layers, pants, shorts, socks, underwear, short sleeves, long sleeves, sweatshirt, hoodie
Sunglasses
Hats
Bug repellent
Sunblock
Umbrellas
Baggies
Plastic bags - garbage bags
Books
Coloring books / art supplies
Journal
Important documents - homeowners / rental insurance, other legal documents [store these in a Tupperware style file crate that does not get wet]
Now we can't forget about our pets!
HURRICANE KIT FOR PETS:
Dry pet food
Wet pet food
Water
Can opener
Pet treats
Pet medicine - including any prescription medicine
Food bowl
Water bowl
Travel / collapsible water bowl
Toys
Brain teaser toys
Puzzle toys
Stuffies
Blankets
Crate - (somewhere they can be safe and secure is a must)
Soft Bed / Bedding
Carpet cleaner / stain remover
Towels / rags for messy clean up
Wipes
Garbage bags
Poop bags
Pee pads
Litter and litter box for cat
Leashes / Harness (more than one leash)
Collar
Tags
Apple AirTag - (I highly recommend getting one if you don't have it currently)
Any and all vaccination certificates - especially rabies!
Pet medical records / health history documents
Wet pet food
Water
Can opener
Pet treats
Pet medicine - including any prescription medicine
Food bowl
Water bowl
Travel / collapsible water bowl
Toys
Brain teaser toys
Puzzle toys
Stuffies
Blankets
Crate - (somewhere they can be safe and secure is a must)
Soft Bed / Bedding
Carpet cleaner / stain remover
Towels / rags for messy clean up
Wipes
Garbage bags
Poop bags
Pee pads
Litter and litter box for cat
Leashes / Harness (more than one leash)
Collar
Tags
Apple AirTag - (I highly recommend getting one if you don't have it currently)
Any and all vaccination certificates - especially rabies!
Pet medical records / health history documents
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Bonus: hurricane kit video -
Check out my YouTube video from the 2024 season for more helpful tips on building your own hurricane kit:
Next - let's gather a list of vital websites, apps, and online resources to help us become aware and educated all season long.
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MEDIA RESOURCES:
Starting with your own cell phone:
Before a storm comes, remember to turn on all your emergency notifications settings on your smartphone.
Before a storm comes, remember to turn on all your emergency notifications settings on your smartphone.
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Next, I recommend a very, very wide variety of weather forecasters. I want more opinions than less, and I want them from a vast supply of different sources. I NEVER follow just one person or one station or one channel (although I do have my favorites). Flip around, do a lot of research. And seek out different opinions, forecasts, analysis, research. Sometimes the one that is different from all the others--the outlier--can be the most important one to heed their warning.
Here are merely a few of the weather forecasters I watch, read, and listen to:
Here are merely a few of the weather forecasters I watch, read, and listen to:
* Tracking The Tropics - on YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@WflaNewsChannel8
Hey JB - JB Bruno #HeyJB
WFLA News Channel 8 - Tampa
I've been following Hey JB for years at this point. And Tracking The Tropics airs weekly--regardless of a storm--during the entire hurricane season, and livestreams the duration of each and every hurricane and tropical storm, with a very committed crew, and truly a family of newscasters and meteorologists. I look forward to watching them as if it's a soap opera - a good one. I don't know how to survive storm season without him and the rest of the team. The show brings me joy, and so very much hurricane education as well.
At this point, JB doesn't know it, but I'm in love with him... I recommend you fall in love with him too.
https://www.youtube.com/@WflaNewsChannel8
Hey JB - JB Bruno #HeyJB
WFLA News Channel 8 - Tampa
I've been following Hey JB for years at this point. And Tracking The Tropics airs weekly--regardless of a storm--during the entire hurricane season, and livestreams the duration of each and every hurricane and tropical storm, with a very committed crew, and truly a family of newscasters and meteorologists. I look forward to watching them as if it's a soap opera - a good one. I don't know how to survive storm season without him and the rest of the team. The show brings me joy, and so very much hurricane education as well.
At this point, JB doesn't know it, but I'm in love with him... I recommend you fall in love with him too.
Me watching Hey JB during Hurricane Idalia coverage in 2023.
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And following Hey JB during Hurricane Milton in 2024.
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Watching the cone and the infamous WFLA Wobble Tracker.
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* Max Velocity - on YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@MaxVelocityWX
I found Max Velocity (otherwise affectionately known as Buzz Lightyear by his viewers) during the 2024 hurricane season, and I honestly cannot imagine going through another hurricane season without him. He was in his final year of Meteorology school when I started watching him. And it happened to be a massive storm season in Florida--with Hurricane's Debby, Helene, and Milton all basically coming back-to-back.
Max puts in the work, and has a lot of grit and determination. He can put in long hours (the others I follow do as well) but I've seen him stay live for hours upon hours with hardly ever even stepping away from the screen, during times of constant tornado threats and warnings during these storms, and literally saving lives. I'm not kidding. I literally believe Max and his LIVE coverage on YouTube has saved many lives.
And recently, I saw him share a community post on his YouTube Channel, informing his subscribers that he officially completed meteorology school. So go give Max Velocity a Subscribe, Like, and Share on YouTube. He may be an integral resource during a future storm.
And to the man himself - Max - many congrats sent your way on completing your education, and your massive Channel growth on YouTube over the 2024 storm season. All your accomplishments are so very well deserved. You have saved so many lives with your broadcasts. I will be continuing to watch you in future storm seasons, and continue to share out your Channel as highly recommended.
https://www.youtube.com/@MaxVelocityWX
I found Max Velocity (otherwise affectionately known as Buzz Lightyear by his viewers) during the 2024 hurricane season, and I honestly cannot imagine going through another hurricane season without him. He was in his final year of Meteorology school when I started watching him. And it happened to be a massive storm season in Florida--with Hurricane's Debby, Helene, and Milton all basically coming back-to-back.
Max puts in the work, and has a lot of grit and determination. He can put in long hours (the others I follow do as well) but I've seen him stay live for hours upon hours with hardly ever even stepping away from the screen, during times of constant tornado threats and warnings during these storms, and literally saving lives. I'm not kidding. I literally believe Max and his LIVE coverage on YouTube has saved many lives.
And recently, I saw him share a community post on his YouTube Channel, informing his subscribers that he officially completed meteorology school. So go give Max Velocity a Subscribe, Like, and Share on YouTube. He may be an integral resource during a future storm.
And to the man himself - Max - many congrats sent your way on completing your education, and your massive Channel growth on YouTube over the 2024 storm season. All your accomplishments are so very well deserved. You have saved so many lives with your broadcasts. I will be continuing to watch you in future storm seasons, and continue to share out your Channel as highly recommended.
Watching Max Velocity as Hurricane Milton was heading to us as a Category 5 hurricane. And then with 130+ tornado warnings after hitting Florida!
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* Ryan Hall, Y'All - on YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@RyanHallYall
While I don't watch Ryan Hall as much or extensively as the others above, I do so follow his coverage and he is definitely part of my arsenal over hurricane resources. I highly recommend subscribing to his YouTube Channel. He also does a whole heck of a lot of giving back to communities hurting after a storm blows through.
https://www.youtube.com/@RyanHallYall
While I don't watch Ryan Hall as much or extensively as the others above, I do so follow his coverage and he is definitely part of my arsenal over hurricane resources. I highly recommend subscribing to his YouTube Channel. He also does a whole heck of a lot of giving back to communities hurting after a storm blows through.
Watching the massive traffic jams via webcams on Ryan Hall Y'All's YouTube Channel during Hurricane Milton - crazy stuff!
*Mr. Weatherman - on YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@MrWeatherman
Mr. Weatherman is THE MAN. I watch his daily update every single day for the entire six months of hurricane season. He has a daily forecast that not only covers the United States, but he puts a great emphasis on the storms developing in the Caribbean Islands, which, obviously can end up affecting Florida greatly--even if it's 'just' a tropical storm, or tropical depression.
Plus, his concern for the Caribbean also leads him to go "island by island" as he says. He does not leave any island out of his forecast each day, no body is overlooked. He also cares greatly for merchant mariners, container shippers, and fisherman, in his forecasts. Thus, leading to another slightly different forecast perspective, and he also teaches a lot with each video. I highly recommend him, and I'm not certain how I'd survive hurricane season with him, and his calm demeanor in the face of such storms.
Mr. Weatherman, thank you so much for everything you do to help others be prepared each hurricane season!
https://www.youtube.com/@MrWeatherman
Mr. Weatherman is THE MAN. I watch his daily update every single day for the entire six months of hurricane season. He has a daily forecast that not only covers the United States, but he puts a great emphasis on the storms developing in the Caribbean Islands, which, obviously can end up affecting Florida greatly--even if it's 'just' a tropical storm, or tropical depression.
Plus, his concern for the Caribbean also leads him to go "island by island" as he says. He does not leave any island out of his forecast each day, no body is overlooked. He also cares greatly for merchant mariners, container shippers, and fisherman, in his forecasts. Thus, leading to another slightly different forecast perspective, and he also teaches a lot with each video. I highly recommend him, and I'm not certain how I'd survive hurricane season with him, and his calm demeanor in the face of such storms.
Mr. Weatherman, thank you so much for everything you do to help others be prepared each hurricane season!
* 104.5 WOKV - Jacksonville's News & Talk
(A local news source - Jacksonville, Florida)
https://www.wokv.com/
I have their app, and I do check it daily each storm, but just as another source. I do not really spend any length of my time with this channel, other than a quick daily check in or glance at their storm forecast. I prefer YouTube over local news, lol,. But I do think it's important to see what all the local news sources are covering for the storm, otherwise I might miss something important to me locally.
(A local news source - Jacksonville, Florida)
https://www.wokv.com/
I have their app, and I do check it daily each storm, but just as another source. I do not really spend any length of my time with this channel, other than a quick daily check in or glance at their storm forecast. I prefer YouTube over local news, lol,. But I do think it's important to see what all the local news sources are covering for the storm, otherwise I might miss something important to me locally.
A screenshot showing 104.5 WOKV coverage during Hurricane Idalia.
* First Coast News - On Your Side
(A local news source - Jacksonville, Florida)
Same here, as with 104.5 WOKV. I do check this source daily during a storm for any important local news that can be vital during a storm. But I do not spend a lot of time with this channel.
(A local news source - Jacksonville, Florida)
Same here, as with 104.5 WOKV. I do check this source daily during a storm for any important local news that can be vital during a storm. But I do not spend a lot of time with this channel.
Screenshots of First Coast News coverage during Hurricane Idalia.
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* Apple News app
https://www.apple.com/apple-news/
I do check Apple News daily during any hurricane headed my way, but I do not spend any real length of time getting hurricane coverage on this app.
I personally would say that this source is my last source, lol. But as mentioned above, I do still check it, just to make sure I'm not missing anything.
https://www.apple.com/apple-news/
I do check Apple News daily during any hurricane headed my way, but I do not spend any real length of time getting hurricane coverage on this app.
I personally would say that this source is my last source, lol. But as mentioned above, I do still check it, just to make sure I'm not missing anything.
Screenshot of Apple News app during Hurricane Idalia coverage.
(Corporate Weather Forecasters that I follow)
* Joe Bastardi - Weatherbell Analytics
https://www.weatherbell.com/
Joe Bastardi is a corporate weather forecaster. However, Joe has a free Saturday Summary, and is extremely reliable and accurate at forecasting roughly two weeks in advance of hurricanes. He has a keen eye for what will develop and what will fall apart. And while he only offers a brief, free summary forecast available to the public, I do find he’s worth checking out as another source and knowledgeable opinion on the matter.
* Joe Bastardi - Weatherbell Analytics
https://www.weatherbell.com/
Joe Bastardi is a corporate weather forecaster. However, Joe has a free Saturday Summary, and is extremely reliable and accurate at forecasting roughly two weeks in advance of hurricanes. He has a keen eye for what will develop and what will fall apart. And while he only offers a brief, free summary forecast available to the public, I do find he’s worth checking out as another source and knowledgeable opinion on the matter.
* JAX READY app - City of Jacksonville, Florida
https://www.jaxready.com/
(A local news source - Jacksonville, Florida)
This app is of VITAL importance to me - locally. And I highly recommend if you are in the Jacksonville, Florida area to download this app TODAY! This app will provide evacuation zone information, shelter locations (can change each storm), and if or when a voluntary or mandatory evacuation is issued. Plus, this resource covers other local safety issues and emergencies as well. Check this app during each storm. Do it.
https://www.jaxready.com/
(A local news source - Jacksonville, Florida)
This app is of VITAL importance to me - locally. And I highly recommend if you are in the Jacksonville, Florida area to download this app TODAY! This app will provide evacuation zone information, shelter locations (can change each storm), and if or when a voluntary or mandatory evacuation is issued. Plus, this resource covers other local safety issues and emergencies as well. Check this app during each storm. Do it.
Screenshot example of the JaxReady homepage on the app.
.GOV websites
Plus, here's some more helpful links to official .GOV sites with hurricane related information:
* National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration - NOAA:
https://www.noaa.gov/
* National Weather Service - NWS:
https://www.weather.gov/
* National Hurricane Center - NHC:
https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/
* FEMA Individual Assistance - an official website of the United States government::
https://www.disasterassistance.gov/
All these websites are worth checking during hurricane season, and be sure to bookmark them for the future!
And yes, they are on YouTube as well! Make sure you subscribe as their Channel can be invaluable during a storm. Here's the official YouTube Channel for NOAA/NWS/NHC:
https://www.youtube.com/@nwsnhc
* National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration - NOAA:
https://www.noaa.gov/
* National Weather Service - NWS:
https://www.weather.gov/
* National Hurricane Center - NHC:
https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/
* FEMA Individual Assistance - an official website of the United States government::
https://www.disasterassistance.gov/
All these websites are worth checking during hurricane season, and be sure to bookmark them for the future!
And yes, they are on YouTube as well! Make sure you subscribe as their Channel can be invaluable during a storm. Here's the official YouTube Channel for NOAA/NWS/NHC:
https://www.youtube.com/@nwsnhc
RESOURCES FOR FLORIDIANS
And here's a bunch of helpful links and resources more locally to Floridians:
* Visit Florida - Basic Hurricane Facts:
https://www.visitflorida.org/resources/crisis-preparation/hurricane-information/frequently-asked-questions-on-travel-during-hurricane-season/
* Visit Florida - Travel Advisories:
https://www.visitflorida.com/more/florida-now/
* Florida 511 - latest traffic conditions:
https://fl511.com/
* Florida Division of Emergency Management:
https://www.floridadisaster.org/disaster-updates/storm-updates/
* Florida Hurricane Guide:
https://www.floridadisaster.org/planprepare/florida-hurricane-guide/
* Florida Special Needs Registry:
https://snr.flhealthresponse.com/
* Florida Disaster Hurricane Supply List:
https://www.floridadisaster.org/planprepare/hurricane-supply-checklist/
* Evacuation Zones - Florida:
https://floridadisaster.maps.arcgis.com/apps/instant/lookup/index.html?appid=aa18a2d8737c4d66bb6434a09e17203a
* Hope Florida - locally to Floridians:
https://hopeflorida.com/get-help/hurricanerecovery.html
833.GET.HOPE
* Visit Florida - Basic Hurricane Facts:
https://www.visitflorida.org/resources/crisis-preparation/hurricane-information/frequently-asked-questions-on-travel-during-hurricane-season/
* Visit Florida - Travel Advisories:
https://www.visitflorida.com/more/florida-now/
* Florida 511 - latest traffic conditions:
https://fl511.com/
* Florida Division of Emergency Management:
https://www.floridadisaster.org/disaster-updates/storm-updates/
* Florida Hurricane Guide:
https://www.floridadisaster.org/planprepare/florida-hurricane-guide/
* Florida Special Needs Registry:
https://snr.flhealthresponse.com/
* Florida Disaster Hurricane Supply List:
https://www.floridadisaster.org/planprepare/hurricane-supply-checklist/
* Evacuation Zones - Florida:
https://floridadisaster.maps.arcgis.com/apps/instant/lookup/index.html?appid=aa18a2d8737c4d66bb6434a09e17203a
* Hope Florida - locally to Floridians:
https://hopeflorida.com/get-help/hurricanerecovery.html
833.GET.HOPE
EVACUATION ZONES:
KNOW YOUR ZONE!
This was our evacuation due to Hurricane Irma in September of 2017. It's important to know your evacuation zone, and it's equally important to know about any bridge closures.
Going over the intracoastal waterway to evacuate for Hurricane Irma in 2017.
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Beach Boulevard Bridge with law enforcement stationed there - before Hurricane Irma in 2017.
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The Green Monster - the Isaiah David Hart Bridge just before Hurricane Irma in 2017.
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* Florida Disaster - Learn about Florida evacuation zones:
https://www.floridadisaster.org/knowyourzone
[Florida Division of Emergency Management - FDEM]
* Evacuation Zones - Florida:
https://floridadisaster.maps.arcgis.com/apps/instant/lookup/index.html?appid=aa18a2d8737c4d66bb6434a09e17203a
*Evacuation Zones and Flood Zones are not necessarily the same!*
https://www.floridadisaster.org/knowyourzone
[Florida Division of Emergency Management - FDEM]
* Evacuation Zones - Florida:
https://floridadisaster.maps.arcgis.com/apps/instant/lookup/index.html?appid=aa18a2d8737c4d66bb6434a09e17203a
*Evacuation Zones and Flood Zones are not necessarily the same!*
Example screenshot of previous Duval County Evacuation Zone map on First Coast News during a previous storm.
SHELTERS:
* Red Cross:
https://www.redcross.org/
The Red Cross will most likely offer shelters during a big, incoming hurricane. Check their site frequently before a storm comes for any shelter information in your area. But note that most likely, while the shelter will be run by the Red Cross, shelter information publicized will come through your local city/town/municipality--which is why it's so important to stay tuned to local news and weather resources during a storm. Even if you don't follow your local city or local news year-round, definitely check in with them during a storm for up-to-date shelter and evacuation information. Which may be more accurate and up-to-date than the official Red Cross website at that time.
https://www.redcross.org/
The Red Cross will most likely offer shelters during a big, incoming hurricane. Check their site frequently before a storm comes for any shelter information in your area. But note that most likely, while the shelter will be run by the Red Cross, shelter information publicized will come through your local city/town/municipality--which is why it's so important to stay tuned to local news and weather resources during a storm. Even if you don't follow your local city or local news year-round, definitely check in with them during a storm for up-to-date shelter and evacuation information. Which may be more accurate and up-to-date than the official Red Cross website at that time.
HURRICANE RELIEF
After a storm:
Bean's Safety Tips -
including the 20/20/20 rule:
1) Throw away any perishables in your refrigerator or freezer if you're power's been off.
2) When leaving your house or building, do not step on downed power lines.
3) Do not drive through standing water.
4) Do not drive on downed power lines.
5) Leave tree and limb cutting to the professionals.
6) Use caution when utilizing a ladder.
7) Always use the correct PPE when operating machinery - safety glasses, masks, gloves, etc.
8) NEVER use a generator inside your house or garage - even if the door and windows are open!
9) Use the 20/20/20 rule when operating a generator:
-Keep the generator 20 feet from your house.
-Allow the generator 20 minutes to cool down before refueling.
-And spend $20.00 on a carbon monoxide alarm.
Plus, here's a couple important links to reach out for help after a storm:
* FEMA Individual Assistance - an official website of the United States government:
https://www.disasterassistance.gov/
* Hope Florida - locally to Floridians:
https://hopeflorida.com/get-help/hurricanerecovery.html
833.GET.HOPE
2) When leaving your house or building, do not step on downed power lines.
3) Do not drive through standing water.
4) Do not drive on downed power lines.
5) Leave tree and limb cutting to the professionals.
6) Use caution when utilizing a ladder.
7) Always use the correct PPE when operating machinery - safety glasses, masks, gloves, etc.
8) NEVER use a generator inside your house or garage - even if the door and windows are open!
9) Use the 20/20/20 rule when operating a generator:
-Keep the generator 20 feet from your house.
-Allow the generator 20 minutes to cool down before refueling.
-And spend $20.00 on a carbon monoxide alarm.
Plus, here's a couple important links to reach out for help after a storm:
* FEMA Individual Assistance - an official website of the United States government:
https://www.disasterassistance.gov/
* Hope Florida - locally to Floridians:
https://hopeflorida.com/get-help/hurricanerecovery.html
833.GET.HOPE
COMMUNITY
Also after a storm - help your community:
Ways you can help others:
1) Be kind.
2) Practice patience.
3) Offer a helping hand.
4) Cook a meal for someone.
5) Help bring awareness to the aftermath of a storm. Simple acts of sharing social media posts from others, articles, news, videos, etc., all help inform the greater public of a storm's aftermath. Plus, this knowledge and awareness can help someone in the future!
6) Donate if possible or raise funds for those suffering.
During storm season 2024, after Debby, then Helene, and finally Milton, I really wanted to help in some way.
Utilizing my YouTube Channel, I hosted my first Hurricane Relief Fundraiser with the Red Cross - I called it "Hills for Helene, Miles for Milton" - and it was a livestream fundraiser. I couldn't do much, but I could do that, and I'm a firm believer in that every little bit helps. It was a meaningful experience, we raised a bit of money, all going straight to those in need after Helene and Milton, and I'd definitely like to host future Hurricane Relief fundraisers if that time comes!
Please subscribe to my Channel - Christine Pieper - to join me.
https://www.youtube.com/@christinepieper
1) Be kind.
2) Practice patience.
3) Offer a helping hand.
4) Cook a meal for someone.
5) Help bring awareness to the aftermath of a storm. Simple acts of sharing social media posts from others, articles, news, videos, etc., all help inform the greater public of a storm's aftermath. Plus, this knowledge and awareness can help someone in the future!
6) Donate if possible or raise funds for those suffering.
During storm season 2024, after Debby, then Helene, and finally Milton, I really wanted to help in some way.
Utilizing my YouTube Channel, I hosted my first Hurricane Relief Fundraiser with the Red Cross - I called it "Hills for Helene, Miles for Milton" - and it was a livestream fundraiser. I couldn't do much, but I could do that, and I'm a firm believer in that every little bit helps. It was a meaningful experience, we raised a bit of money, all going straight to those in need after Helene and Milton, and I'd definitely like to host future Hurricane Relief fundraisers if that time comes!
Please subscribe to my Channel - Christine Pieper - to join me.
https://www.youtube.com/@christinepieper
AFTER STORM SEASON IS OVER:
Use up your hurricane kit:
Start using up all the packaged foods and drinks that you have compiled throughout the season.
Anything not utilized does not have to go to waste.
Stock up fresh each year.
Start using up all the packaged foods and drinks that you have compiled throughout the season.
Anything not utilized does not have to go to waste.
Stock up fresh each year.
BEAN'S BEST HURRICANE TIPS:
Below is my best hurricane advice that I follow myself:
*Note that these tips are what I do and is what I have found are best for me. You and your own situation may be entirely different. But I like to offer this as an example or to help you garner ideas from so that you can help yourself get through what can be a tough time of year.
1) HUMOR - Humor is vital during hurricane season. At some point, you are as prepared as you are going to be. And if you become aware, educate yourself, get prepared, and stock up your kit, as well as know your local resources, there's then literally only so much you can do. So why be prepared and worry? Be prepared, and keep going. Be prepared, and keep the humor as best as possible. It will help you mentally during the toughest moments of any storm. Humor may help with survival. Stay optimistic, keep your head on your shoulders, laugh, and choose to be grateful. All this will help with humor, which will in turn, help you get through the day. You'll be able to face any storm. I believe in you!
Here's a few examples of how I stay positive and optimistic during the worst time before a storm comes and during a storm:
* Hurricane Donuts!
Hurricane donuts are a must! These are official hurricane donuts from Cinotti's Bakery. It's a hurricane tradition, and probably some of their busiest days of the year. Gotta stock up on donuts before every single storm.
https://cinottisbakery.com/
*Note that these tips are what I do and is what I have found are best for me. You and your own situation may be entirely different. But I like to offer this as an example or to help you garner ideas from so that you can help yourself get through what can be a tough time of year.
1) HUMOR - Humor is vital during hurricane season. At some point, you are as prepared as you are going to be. And if you become aware, educate yourself, get prepared, and stock up your kit, as well as know your local resources, there's then literally only so much you can do. So why be prepared and worry? Be prepared, and keep going. Be prepared, and keep the humor as best as possible. It will help you mentally during the toughest moments of any storm. Humor may help with survival. Stay optimistic, keep your head on your shoulders, laugh, and choose to be grateful. All this will help with humor, which will in turn, help you get through the day. You'll be able to face any storm. I believe in you!
Here's a few examples of how I stay positive and optimistic during the worst time before a storm comes and during a storm:
* Hurricane Donuts!
Hurricane donuts are a must! These are official hurricane donuts from Cinotti's Bakery. It's a hurricane tradition, and probably some of their busiest days of the year. Gotta stock up on donuts before every single storm.
https://cinottisbakery.com/
Hurricane Donuts!
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Screenshot sample of Cinotti's Bakery during Hurricane Idalia.
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Oooh, spooky...
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Definitely check out the above YouTube video for a visit to CInotti's Bakery as we prepared for Hurricane Idalia the day before the hurricane came through!
A night out!
But that's just for the morning. What about night time? Well, then we gotta go to Hurricane Grill & Wings of course!
https://www.hurricanewings.com/
Yes, this was the night before Hurricane Irma in 2017. Yes, it helped.
But that's just for the morning. What about night time? Well, then we gotta go to Hurricane Grill & Wings of course!
https://www.hurricanewings.com/
Yes, this was the night before Hurricane Irma in 2017. Yes, it helped.
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Waffle House:
At some point between the wind starting, and the last drops of rain, a traditional trip to the Waffle House is in order.
Back to the baked goods:
Ok, we've covered the morning before the storm, and we've covered the night before the storm. But what about during the storm?
Well, then I make a hurricane cake - (or I order one from Publix).
https://www.publix.com/
Here's my very last minute and very official hurricane cake during Hurricane Milton in 2024:
At some point between the wind starting, and the last drops of rain, a traditional trip to the Waffle House is in order.
Back to the baked goods:
Ok, we've covered the morning before the storm, and we've covered the night before the storm. But what about during the storm?
Well, then I make a hurricane cake - (or I order one from Publix).
https://www.publix.com/
Here's my very last minute and very official hurricane cake during Hurricane Milton in 2024:
My hurricane cake during Hurricane Milton - October 2024.
Is this a humor section, or a carbohydrate section?
MERCH:
Did I mention I make hurricane merch? It's just another way I attempt to keep the humor in the situation. I usually come out with a new design each season.
Here's some recent hurricane merch in my merch shop!
https://christines-floridian-dreams.myspreadshop.com/all
Did I mention I make hurricane merch? It's just another way I attempt to keep the humor in the situation. I usually come out with a new design each season.
Here's some recent hurricane merch in my merch shop!
https://christines-floridian-dreams.myspreadshop.com/all
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We Are Open Til The Letters Fly Off This Sign!
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Cone Of Uncertainty
Ok - Moving on from all the foods and merch (I mean humor), here's my remaining hurricane best tips:
2) Get educated.
3) Become hurricane aware.
4) Know your zones!
5) Offer kindness and thanks to first responders who are risking their lives to keep us all safe.
6) Don’t touch or drive through downed power lines.
7) Don’t drive through standing water.
8) Pets are people too - do for your pet what you would do for you.
9) Use your generator outside only - this action can save lives.
10) Do what’s best for you and your family.
11) And lastly, trust your gut - and not someone else’s.
2) Get educated.
3) Become hurricane aware.
4) Know your zones!
5) Offer kindness and thanks to first responders who are risking their lives to keep us all safe.
6) Don’t touch or drive through downed power lines.
7) Don’t drive through standing water.
8) Pets are people too - do for your pet what you would do for you.
9) Use your generator outside only - this action can save lives.
10) Do what’s best for you and your family.
11) And lastly, trust your gut - and not someone else’s.
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Hey there fellow dreamers!
I hope you found some or all of this information, advice, tips, resources, or links helpful in some way. I've been through many hurricane seasons now, and I'm always learning--so I'll be amending or adding information here--as we all keep growing and changing. Be sure to share out this resource page with anyone you know in a hurricane prone area. Together we can all help each other make it through yet another hurricane season as safely as possible! |
And don't forget to join me on YouTube!
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https://www.youtube.com/@christinepieper
And here's my entire LIFE IS LIKE A HURRICANE playlist:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLa7nooQvf7ITbxeOPj4Dih-BASPu7S2_Y&si=aqEj51BcPwGGtgt1
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLa7nooQvf7ITbxeOPj4Dih-BASPu7S2_Y&si=aqEj51BcPwGGtgt1
The sun will always rise once again.
*EDITORIAL DISCLAIMER:
This page contains my views, analysis, tips, and opinions on hurricane season. These are all one person's opinion, knowledge and past experiences, and what I believe is the most helpful way for me to survive each hurricane season.
While this is merely some of the ways I get through hurricane season each year, these tips and resources may not be best for you. Each person's situation is different and under different circumstances. Always do what is best for you and your family during a storm, and heed warnings of your local, state, and federal officials.
A Category 1 hurricane is nothing to mess with, let alone a Category 5 hurricane. Always take an incoming storm seriously, remembering that hurricanes are serious and extremely powerful storms, and Mother Nature can be more powerful than any human.*
This page contains my views, analysis, tips, and opinions on hurricane season. These are all one person's opinion, knowledge and past experiences, and what I believe is the most helpful way for me to survive each hurricane season.
While this is merely some of the ways I get through hurricane season each year, these tips and resources may not be best for you. Each person's situation is different and under different circumstances. Always do what is best for you and your family during a storm, and heed warnings of your local, state, and federal officials.
A Category 1 hurricane is nothing to mess with, let alone a Category 5 hurricane. Always take an incoming storm seriously, remembering that hurricanes are serious and extremely powerful storms, and Mother Nature can be more powerful than any human.*