More than 50 Tennessee residents were rescued from a hospital rooftop after floodwaters from Hurricane Helene surrounded the building. The storm, which made landfall as a Category 4 hurricane, wreaked havoc in Florida before heading towards Georgia, North Carolina and Tennessee. 

Ocean-based storms can cause severe damage and death hundreds of miles from any coastline. The dangerous conditions in Tennessee occurred after the storm had been downgraded. 

For residents of Tennessee (and other states in the path of future hurricanes), it is crucial to take stock of this event. Full preparation for the next storm is non-negotiable if you want to protect your family, animals and your home. 

Even if the next storm is not a hurricane, ongoing climate change can cause severe weather like tornadoes. Tennessee already experiences tornadoes, especially at night, and this phenomenon is set to increase in severity and numbers. 

So, where do you start in the aftermath of the current hurricane? Immediate environmental assessment is key to storm preparation, whether hurricane, tornado, or high winds. 

Keep reading to learn more about preparing yourself and your home for increasingly severe hurricanes in Tennessee. 

What to Do Before a Hurricane

Fortunately, there is ample warning to affected states when a hurricane forms. If a hurricane is a few days away, do an immediate environment assessment of your home. Put up storm shutters if you do not have permanent ones to protect your windows. You could also opt for boarding up your windows with plywood. If you aren’t prepared and have appropriate protection, you may be in for costly window replacement after the storm.

Even if the coming hurricane looks like it will weaken before it reaches Tennessee, the winds could still cause a lot of damage. Secure the roof of your house by installing extra clips or straps. You should also reinforce your garage doors. 

If trees and shrubs are close to your house or walls, cut or trim them to make them more wind-resistant. Ensure your rain gutters and downspouts are clear of debris. If outdoor furniture is not tied or nailed down, bring it indoors. These items can become dangerous projectiles in strong winds. 

If you plan to ride out the storm at home (and not evacuate), you should consider installing a generator if the power goes out. 

What to Do During a Hurricane

Hurricanes are terrifying weather events. Even though Tennessee is not along the coast, hurricanes can cause flash flooding, incredibly strong winds, and thunderstorms that spawn tornadoes.

Before a hurricane hits your area, set up an emergency plan. This plan should include what you must do if the storm hits during the day and your family is in different places (school, work, etc.). 

Your plan should be on your phone and include evacuation routes that make it easy for your family and pets to escape. Get a backup charging device to keep your phone powered up in case you need to contact emergency services. Also, keep copies of your insurance policies and identification documents on your phone. 

Keep a bag of supplies ready, including non-perishable foods, pet food, medication, disinfectant, etc. You should also stock up on flashlights and batteries, as well as pack extra clothing and warm blankets. 

Ensure you sign up for real-time alerts from your local municipality or the weather service. 

If you receive a mandatory evacuation alert for your zone, do not resist. Instead, follow orders given by local officials. Never climb into an attic if you or your family become trapped by flooding. Instead, go to the highest level of your building or your house roof. 

If you have a storm shelter, take refuge there. Never try to drive, walk, or swim through flood waters. 

What to Do After a Hurricane

If you have been evacuated, you cannot return home until local officials declare the area safe. If you return home and find it has been damaged, you must have it inspected and cleaned. 

It is crucial not to touch or come into contact with downed wires and fallen power lines. Also, avoid touching floodwaters, as they may be contaminated with bacteria and sewage. 

Wear protective clothing, including thick gloves and goggles, to clean your home. Get professional help to inspect or fix roof and wall damage. You should also take photos of the damage for insurance purposes. 

If you have standard homeowners insurance, your policy may not cover hurricane damage, including flood damage. Before hurricane season begins, you should review your insurance policy to ensure you have enough coverage. This is particularly important if you live in a flood-prone area. 

The aftereffects of a hurricane can last for many weeks or even months. There is bound to be severe flooding, power outages, and blocked roads. You may become increasingly stressed during this time, especially if your house is severely damaged. 

Take extra care of yourself and your family. While these stressful feelings will eventually pass, they can damage your health if you do not take things easy.

What Else to Keep in Mind

When the immediate danger of the hurricane is over, other dangers may remain. If you leave frozen food in a freezer and more than a day has passed, you should not consume it. The same goes for refrigerated food. In most instances, food will stay frozen in a full freezer for about two days. However, this does not automatically mean it is safe to eat. 

If you have gasoline-powered machinery or appliances, do not use them indoors after a storm. Using generators or charcoal grills inside poorly ventilated areas can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. 

Check on your neighbors, but do not venture outside the safe spaces established by local officials. If you find someone in need of assistance, call emergency services. 

Hurricanes Are No Longer a Distant Concern

Hurricane Helene proves that Tennessee residents cannot take hurricane warnings lightly. Inland states are no longer immune to the worst of a hurricane’s impact. You must prepare in advance so you know exactly what to do when a hurricane approaches. Make the most of your emergency plan and stay informed by signing up for alerts throughout the storm. 

This will ensure you and your family can face each new hurricane season more confidently.