The Lake Conroe area just experienced Hurricane Beryl. It was only a Category 1 storm, but caused massive power outages, downed trees, and inches of rain. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts an above-normal hurricane season. In fact, the forecast states we can have up to 25 named storms. Of these named storms, they predict up to 13 will strengthen into hurricanes. Out of those hurricanes, we can expect up to 7 major hurricanes this season. Of course, Texas does not expect to be hammered by each of these predicted storms. However, we are likely to be affected by another storm this season. Therefore, today we are going to look at storm preparedness tips.
Remove Potential Hazards
Look for limbs, dead or dying trees, or other potential hazards susceptible to high winds. The saying, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” is also applicable here. It is much easier to be proactive in trimming or removing potential hazards than having to cope with damage of a tree falling on your home. Unfortunately fallen trees are responsible for killing people. It is more than protecting your home. This can protect your lives.
Other hazards like trampolines or outdoor furniture can be picked up by winds and create problems for the homeowner. Before the storm makes landfall, make sure to remove the lawn furniture from the yard and/or stake down trampolines. These items normally make your yard fun and livable, but can become potential hazards in a storm.
Prepare Your Household
Experts recommend having at a minimum of three days of non-perishable food items and water for each person in your household. Ensure that you have any medications or supplies that you might need. Babies might need formula and diapers. Don’t forget your pets either while planning. Matches, flashlights, and other sources of light are also great things to have on hand.
Practically, you can fill your bathtub with water to use for flushing toilets. In advance of the storm, wash and dry your laundry as well as clean all your dirty dishes. This is not necessary, but it does make coping with the after effects of the storm more tolerable.
Consider Investing in a Generator
Most residents of the Lake Conroe area lost power during Hurricane Beryl. Some parts of Montgomery County were without power for a week. A small, 2000 watt, portable generator to keep your fridge and deep freezers running is a great option. On the other end of the spectrum, you can purchase a generator to run your entire house. Most homes require a 750o watt generator. If you have a water well to run in addition to your whole house, you might need a 9000 watt generator. You can look at your electric bill so see how many kilowatts you use every month to get a good idea of your power needs. However, it is always best to talk to an electrician specifically about what your home requires. They can safely wire it to your home, too. Of course, you can buy a generator anywhere in between the two mentioned above.
Being prepared to weather hurricanes and tropical storms is a learned skill when you live so close to the Gulf of Mexico. Residents of the Lake Conroe area are not immune from these weather patterns. Hopefully, these hurricane preparedness tips were helpful as we are likely to experience more bad weather this season. Stay safe!