Severe Storm Preparedness Overview
Severe storms encompass hurricanes, tornadoes, thunderstorms, derechos, and other dangerous weather events. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) tracks over 10,000 severe thunderstorms annually in the United States alone. Hurricanes and tornadoes cause billions of dollars in damage and hundreds of fatalities each year.
The key to surviving any severe storm is preparation before it arrives. Once a warning is issued, you will have minutes to hours depending on the storm type. This checklist ensures you have everything you need packed, secured, and ready to go.
Know Your Storm Types
Tornadoes require immediate shelter in an interior room. Hurricanes allow hours to days for preparation and possible evacuation. Thunderstorms bring lightning, hail, and flash flooding. Know which threats are most likely in your region and adjust this checklist accordingly.
Category 1: Shelter & Protection
Your shelter is your primary defense during a severe storm. Securing your home and knowing where to take cover can save your life.
- Certified safety helmet or bicycle helmet — Protects against flying debris during tornadoes. The National Weather Service recommends helmets for all household members in tornado-prone areas.
- Heavy-duty tarp (minimum 10x12 feet) — Covers roof damage after a storm. Secure with rope and bungee cords to prevent water intrusion until permanent repairs are made.
- Plywood sheets or storm shutters — For hurricane-prone areas, pre-cut plywood panels for all windows and glass doors. Mark each panel for quick installation.
- Waterproof storage bins — Store emergency supplies in waterproof containers that protect contents from flooding and wind-driven rain.
- Garage door bracing kit — Garage doors are the weakest point in many homes during hurricanes. A bracing kit prevents catastrophic failure that can destroy the entire structure.
- Plastic sheeting and duct tape — Cover broken windows and roof damage immediately after a storm to prevent water damage.
Category 2: Water & Food
Severe storms can disrupt water treatment and close roads to stores for days. Stock enough supplies for at least one full week.
- Bottled water — 1 gallon per person per day for 7 days. For hurricane preparation, two weeks is recommended as recovery can take longer.
- Water purification tablets or filter — Backup purification in case stored water runs out. A portable filter removes bacteria and parasites.
- Non-perishable food (7-day supply) — Canned meats, peanut butter, crackers, energy bars, dried fruit, and canned soups with pull-tab lids.
- Manual can opener — Essential for accessing canned food. Keep a dedicated can opener in your storm kit.
- Camp stove with fuel canisters — A small propane stove lets you boil water and cook food when power is out. Use only in well-ventilated areas away from storm damage.
- Cooler and ice packs — Transfer perishables from your refrigerator at the first sign of an extended outage. A full cooler maintains temperature for 24 to 48 hours.
Category 3: Safety & Tools
After a storm, you may need to navigate debris, shut off utilities, and signal for help.
- Work gloves and safety goggles — Protect hands and eyes from broken glass, sharp metal, and splintered wood during cleanup.
- Multi-tool and wrench set — Shut off gas and water valves. Cut through debris. Make emergency repairs.
- NOAA weather radio — Battery-powered or hand-crank. Receives storm warnings and updates when power and cell networks fail.
- LED flashlights and headlamps — At least three flashlights with extra batteries. Headlamps keep hands free for navigating debris.
- Fire extinguisher (ABC-rated) — Storm damage can cause gas leaks and electrical fires. Keep an extinguisher accessible on each floor.
- Whistle — Signal for help if trapped in debris. Three short blasts is the universal distress signal.
- Dust masks (N95) — Protect against dust, mold spores, and airborne debris during post-storm cleanup.
Category 4: First Aid & Health
Injuries during severe storms range from cuts and bruises to serious trauma. Immediate first aid can prevent complications.
- Comprehensive first aid kit — Include adhesive bandages, gauze, medical tape, antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment, burn cream, cold packs, and a trauma dressing.
- Prescription medications (7-day supply) — Maintain an emergency supply of all essential prescriptions in a waterproof container.
- Over-the-counter medications — Pain relievers, antihistamines, anti-diarrhea medication, and electrolyte packets for dehydration.
- Sanitation and hygiene — Moist towelettes, hand sanitizer, garbage bags, toilet paper, and a bucket with lid for emergency sanitation.
- Insect repellent — Standing water after storms breeds mosquitoes. DEET-based repellent provides hours of protection during cleanup.
- Sunscreen — Extended time outdoors during cleanup and recovery requires sun protection. Use SPF 30 or higher.
Category 5: Communication & Documents
After a severe storm, communication channels may be disrupted for hours or days. Backup methods keep you connected and informed.
- Portable power bank (20,000mAh+) — Keep your phone charged for emergency calls and weather updates. Store in a waterproof bag.
- Car charger — If you have vehicle access, a car charger provides backup power for phones and small devices.
- Emergency contact list (printed) — Write key numbers on paper. Include emergency services, insurance agents, utility companies, and an out-of-state contact.
- Waterproof document container — Store copies of identification, insurance policies, bank records, and medical records. Photograph documents and save on a password-protected USB drive.
- Local maps (paper) — GPS may be unavailable. Paper maps help navigate around flood zones and storm damage to reach safety.
- Cash in small bills — ATMs and card readers may be offline. Keep at least $100 in small bills for emergency purchases.