Heads up: National Hurricane Preparedness Week kicked off on Sunday, May 5th, 2024. That means it’s all hands on deck as we gear up and get hurricane-ready. 

Why does preparation matter? We know firsthand that when a hurricane hits, there's no room for guesswork. The last thing you need is to be caught off-guard, frantically trying to secure your vessel amidst the chaos of a brewing storm. 

The good news? By taking proactive steps now, you can make a big difference in your ability to respond to and recover from a hurricane later.

Sunday, May 5 — Know Your Risk: Wind & Water

National Hurricane Preparedness Week begins with an important first step: understanding your local wind and water risks. 

Hurricanes aren't just a coastal problem. The impact of wind and water can stretch far beyond the shoreline, reaching hundreds of miles inland.  

Consider Your Threats: Storm Surge, Flooding from Heavy Rain, Strong Winds, Tornadoes, Rip Currents

Take a few minutes today to find out what types of wind and water hazards may affect you. The primary threats from tropical cyclones— which include tropical depressions, tropical storms, and hurricanes—are:

• Storm surge flooding
• Inland flooding from heavy rains
• Strong winds
• Tornadoes
• High surf with rip currents

Resources: 

• NHC Storm Surge Hazard Maps

Determine if You Live in a Flood-Prone Area

Living in a flood-prone area puts you at higher risk during a hurricane. Even seemingly safe zones can experience unexpected flooding from heavy hurricane rain. So, be proactive and check your flood zone today.

Resources:

• Floodsmart.gov: Understanding Flood Zones
• NOAA’s Coastal Flood Exposure Mapper

Identify Your Vessel’s Weak Spots

Before a storm hits, take time to assess your boat's hurricane resilience. Every watercraft, from jet skis to cruisers, has potential weak spots that could be exposed in high winds and waves. 

Here's what to check:

• Age & Condition: Is your boat showing signs of wear and tear?
• Battle Scars? Past repairs or damage could become vulnerabilities.
• Eagle Eye for High-Stress Areas: Look for cracks around high-stress areas like hatches. Check the hull and deck for any signs of weakness.

Bonus Tip: Consider consulting a qualified marine surveyor for a professional inspection.

Monday, May 6 — Prepare Before Hurricane Season

Today is all about getting ahead of the game and being hurricane-ready BEFORE the season even starts. 

Make a Hurricane Storage Plan for Your Boat: 

First things first, evaluate your boat's current storage situation. Consider storing your boat in a designated hurricane-rated facility or a dry storage marina that can withstand a storm’s fury if possible.   

Stuck at the dock? Double (or even triple) up on defense. Use quality lines with chafe guards to stop them from snapping under high winds and rough waters.

Check Your Boat Insurance

Is your boat hurricane-ready... insurance-wise? Give your insurance company a quick call and make sure your boat and equipment are covered in case of a Named Storm. Remember, standard policies don't usually include floods. So, consider adding flood coverage to your plan if you're in a flood-prone area.  

» MORE: What to Know About Hurricanes and Boat Insurance Coverage

Tuesday, May 7 — Understand Forecast Information

Today is all about understanding those sometimes confusing hurricane forecasts. 

So, why does this matter? Well, a solid grasp of forecast information can clue us in on the storm’s paths, rainfall amounts, wind speeds, and more. 

Rely on Forecasts From the National Hurricane Center and Your Local NWS Office

When it comes to hurricane forecasts, stick to trusted sources. Ditch the unreliable weather apps and bookmark these official authorities instead:

• National Hurricane Center (NHC): Your one-stop shop for the most accurate forecasts.
• Local National Weather Service (NWS) Office: These local reporters understand your area's specific vulnerabilities (storm surge risks, potential flooding zones, etc.).

Know Your Alerts & the Difference Between a Watch & Warning

Knowing the difference between a Watch and a Warning is crucial for protecting your boat during a hurricane. Here's a quick breakdown:

Hurricane Watch (Possible Threat):

• Clock is Ticking: Hurricane conditions are possible within your area in the next 48 hours. 
• Action Steps:
  • Double-check dock lines and secure loose equipment.
  • Start gathering supplies and finalizing your hurricane plan. 

Hurricane Warning (Expected Impact):

• Time to Act: A hurricane is expected to hit your area within 36 hours.
• Action Steps:
  • Activate your hurricane plan immediately!
  • Secure your boat and evacuate if necessary.

Focus on Potential Impacts Regardless of Storm Size or Category

Don't be fooled by the category. All hurricanes can unleash a massive storm surge. This wall of water can flood docks, rip your boat from its mooring, and toss it around. Even downgraded hurricanes can bring strong winds and heavy rain. 

The Bottom Line: Focus on the potential dangers, not the category. All storms can be hazardous. 

Wednesday, May 8 — Get Moving When a Storm Threatens

Storm on the horizon? It's time to shift into high gear. Here's how to get your boat ready to weather the blow, even if pre-season prep could have been better. 

Don't Delay, Deploy Your Plan 

Remember that hurricane plan you made? Pat yourself on the back for being a prepared boater because now's the time to put that plan into action. Knowing exactly what needs to be done – whether it's securing your boat at the dock or moving it to a safe location – allows you to work quickly and efficiently. 

A hurricane isn't the time for second-guessing. Your pre-made plan provides a clear course of action so you’ll know exactly what steps to take. 

Follow Evacuation Orders

If evacuation orders are issued for your area, don't hesitate for a second. Leave your boat behind and prioritize your own safety and the safety of your loved ones. 

Remember: Local authorities clearly understand the threats posed by the storm and will only issue evacuation orders when absolutely necessary. After the storm passes, you can return and assess any damage knowing you made the safe and responsible decision.

Thursday, May 9 — Stay Protected During Storms

The weather might be unpredictable, but your level of preparedness before, during, and after a storm is entirely within your control.

Here’s what to do during a storm:

Stay in Safe Places Away From Water & Wind

Flooded or damaged areas? Keep a safe distance. High ground is your best bet if storm surge or flooding is a threat.  

Bottom Line: Stay away from flooded areas, damaged zones, and anything water or wind can turn into a hazard.

Have a Way to Get Weather Alerts and Forecast Updates

Make sure you're equipped to receive weather alerts and forecast updates at all times. Enable Wireless Emergency Alerts on your phone for real-time warnings from local authorities. Conditions can change quickly, so staying informed is essential.

Friday, May 10 — Use Caution After Storms

A big part of hurricane preparedness is recognizing the lingering hazards post-storm. This is NOT the time to lower your guard. 

Here’s what to do after a storm:

Remember to Proceed with Caution

Authorities will issue official "all clear" notices once they've inspected the area and ensured it's safe to return. Wait for this green light. The storm might be gone, but it can leave behind a nasty mess of debris. A little patience now can prevent a whole lot of problems (and potential damage) later.

Inspect the Vessel Thoroughly

Just because the storm has passed doesn't mean your boat is ready to hit the water again. Before you even think about turning on the engine, check for any battle scars left by the storm.  

Be on the lookout for:

• Leaks, big or small
• Loose equipment
• Structural damage

Only fire up the engine after you're confident your boat is structurally sound and leak-free. 

Saturday, May 11th: Take Action Today!

Are you ready for a hurricane? Be a pre-season hero and take action during National Hurricane Preparedness Week. 

Remember:

• Understand your hurricane and storm surge risk.
• Make a hurricane plan now to store and secure your boat. 
• Make sure you understand and receive forecasts and alerts. 
• Know what to do before, during, and after a hurricane.

For additional resources on boat hurricane preparedness, visit the National Hurricane Center and the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary.