Best ways to stay safe during a hurricane or nor’easter

Every season in New Hampshire brings weather challenges. Spring rains can cause flooding. In the summer, thunderstorms appear out of nowhere, at times leaving us without power. Fall is the time for hurricanes. Winters bring nor’easters burying us in snow and knocking down trees. No matter what time of year it is, we are not really completely safe from Mother Nature’s wrath. We can’t stop Mother Nature, but there are precautions we can take and ways to stay safe during violent storms such as a hurricane or a nor’easter.

Defining the storms

While I don’t believe the inhabitants of New Hampshire really need me to define the weather they know all too well; this is an informative article, and I am here to inform. Nor’easters and hurricanes are intense low-pressure weather systems that can cause extensive harm to the areas affected by them. Nor’easters are cold-core lows that typically strike between October and April, while hurricanes are warm-core lows that appear between June and November. Both storms can deliver high winds and substantial precipitation. Their main difference is the size of the wind field. Hurricanes have a narrow field of powerful winds with a focus around the center, while the nor’easter’s winds are more spread out. But the point is, they can both be dangerous and you need to be on your guard for both.

Protect yourself

Be informed. This is the first step in safeguarding yourself from these raging storms.

• Have evacuation plans ready to identify a shelter and a way to get there
• Before the storm, stock up on emergency supplies such as:
• Food (especially non-perishable)
• Water
• Protective clothing
• Medications
• Batteries
• Flashlights
• Important documents
• Road maps and a full tank of gas
• Listen to a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio or a local news station for information
• Follow the safety official’s instructions
• If you live in a hurricane/nor’easter evacuation zone, be prepared to evacuate

If you must weather the storm, stay in a secure building and keep away from windows. Remain where you are until authorities announce that the danger has passed, many times during a hurricane, the lull signifies the eye of the storm. You are not really safe. Put your trust in the safety officials to let you know when the storm is over.

Recovering from property damage after the storm

Once the storm is ended, check your home. If it has sustained damage, you need to call a disaster restoration professional. Soil-Away Cleaning and Restoration is an excellent choice. With over 25 years of service to the New Hampshire residents during such times, they have the experience and expertise to restore your home from flood, fire and storm damage. This includes everything from emergency cleanup to comprehensive rebuild services. They are available 24/7; call them at (603) 641-6555.
Written by E. Aceves