Life throws you curveballs, and there are many things in life that you can’t prepare for. However, you can prepare for natural disasters and severe weather that’s likely to come your way. Different areas of the United States are more likely to encounter certain kinds of dangerous weather, and by knowing what your region is most at risk for, you can prepare your family and home for the worst-case scenarios and increase your chances of surviving whatever nature throws your way.
For example, to residents of the Gulf Coast and East Coast, hurricane season (typically from June 1-November 30) can be disastrous. New Orleans and Miami are the highest-risk cities for hurricanes, and people who live in those cities can especially benefit from being well-prepared for a hurricane. Your preparation to-do list for hurricane season should include building a disaster supplies kit, gathering canned food and bottled water, stocking up on your prescriptions, and planning for evacuation in the event that becomes necessary.
The northern half of the United States, meanwhile, is susceptible to dangerous winter storms, below-freezing weather, and accumulated snow. Chicago and Buffalo are especially at risk, thanks to their proximity to the Great Lakes. If you live in a winter weather area, make sure that you keep blankets and warm clothes in your car in case you get stranded, along with bottled water and nonperishable food. Your home should be stocked with a shovel, flashlights, batteries, candles, nonperishable food, a portable cellphone charger, a battery operated radio, and a first aid kit.
Disaster can strike at any time, and often, without any warning. However, by knowing what risks you face in your home’s region, you can prepare yourself, your family, and your home for the worst, and in doing so, increase your chances of coming out of the disaster without suffering any harm.
