When hurricane season hits, your family's safety depends on more than just luck; it takes a solid plan, calm decision-making, and smart driving choices. Whether you're a parent preparing a teen for their first storm or navigating evacuation logistics as a family, this guide walks you through what to do before, during, and after a hurricane hits the road.
Pre-Hurricane Prep: Get Ahead of the Storm
Start early. The more prepared you are before a hurricane forms, the smoother your evacuation will be.
Communication Plan: Pick an out-of-state emergency contact and make sure every family member has their number.
Meeting Points: Decide on a local spot and an out-of-town location where everyone can regroup.
Divide Responsibilities: Assign tasks so no one is guessing what to do under pressure.
Store Critical Documents: Use a waterproof container for IDs, insurance, and medical records.
Build Your Emergency Kit: Include water, shelf-stable food, flashlights, a weather radio, batteries, meds, and first aid essentials.
Vehicle Readiness: Your Evacuation Lifeline
You can’t outrun a storm with a car that won’t start. Do this before hurricane season ramps up:
Get a maintenance checkup: tires, brakes, battery, and fluids.
Keep your gas tank at least half full during hurricane season.
Pack an emergency car kit with jumper cables, tools, flares, and a flashlight.
If possible, store extra fuel in approved containers.
Even if your area hasn’t faced a major storm before, assume this season could be different. Waiting until the last minute to prepare increases your risk.
Stay Informed: Reliable Sources Only
Don’t rely on social media rumors. For accurate storm tracking and alerts:
Check the National Hurricane Center regularly.
Use a NOAA weather radio with backup power.
Sign up for local emergency alerts via text or email.
Learn what to do if you’re ever caught driving in severe weather.
Evacuating Safely: Don’t Wing It
If authorities issue an evacuation order, go. Leaving early avoids traffic, stress, and danger.
Map Your Routes: Plan multiple paths out of town and check them often.
Know Contraflow Routes: Some highways reverse lanes to speed up evacuation.
Check Road Conditions: Use local DOT apps or traffic services to avoid flooded roads.
Safe driving tips for evacuation:
Drive slowly and increase your following distance.
Avoid standing water—turn around, don’t drown.
Keep headlights on at all times.
Let experienced drivers handle tough conditions.
After the Storm: Drive With Caution
Even after the hurricane passes, hazards remain. Only return home when officials give the green light.
Watch for:
Downed power lines
Debris and fallen trees
Washed-out roads or loose gravel
Malfunctioning traffic signals
Drive slowly and defensively. Storms change road conditions fast.
Bottom Line: Confidence Comes From Preparation
The more you plan, the more control you gain in uncertain times. Preparing your teen driver and family today means fewer decisions under pressure tomorrow. Create a family plan, keep your car ready, and stay informed.
