Bugging-out is a commonly discussed topic among preppers, but sometimes I feel like the advice is only for SHTF scenarios. What about when a dangerous storm is coming? What good is having a 72-hour plan for emergencies if you aren't going to use it during a time of need?
Hurricane Irma just got upgraded to a category 5, and I felt it a good time to discuss whether or not that warrants leaving town. Now, of course there are a million variables to this situation, such as, strength of the storm, local impact on infrastructure, ability to evacuate safely, etc. We are constantly reminded of what happens when you don't leave town for a storm (Hurricane Katrina being the most prevalent example), but only you can decide what is right for you and your family. If your town is staring down a category 5 mega storm, it's probably a good bet to get out as soon as possible. When a borderline tropical storm/category 1 is looming, riding it out is probably OK with some preparation.
Consider first: Do you have adequate shelter that can withstand the force of the storm? Most houses built in coastal or hurricane zones have special construction and building codes to help, but you must make a decision about the integrity of your structure. If you are in a mobile home, lean towards evacuation if you aren't sure. Houses attached to a permanent foundation can take some more punishment, but there is always a storm capable of destroying them. Also be aware of trees and power poles that can be uprooted and cause damage to your house during the storm.
Second: Do you have supplies of food and water to last until services are restored? This one seems simple enough, but it is worth taking an inventory before deciding to ride out a storm at home. Remember, you should have at least one gallon of water, per person, per day on hand, for both drinking and sanitation. Also consider your food choices. If the power is out for a sustained amount of time, foods that require freezing and refrigeration could spoil. Make sure to have MREs, canned food, and dry foods such as cereals to last as long as you plan to stay. It might be days or even weeks before grocery stores and markets reopen, and they will be slammed leading up to and after the storm. This is definitely something to think a little further ahead with.
If you are unsure of your ability to ride out the storm, it's probably best to have a plan to leave town (and the path of the storm) before it arrives. Don't wait until it destroys roads and bridges to get out of its way. Confer with a relative or friend to see if you can stay at their house for a few days until the storm passes before it arrives so you don't show up unannounced. Fill your vehicle with gas ahead of the storm, and fill any extra fuel tanks you carry with you while you are able. A gas station without electricity might not be able to dispense fuel. If you are going to wait it out at home, and a member of your family requires medicine, be sure there is extra available. If it is insulin and requires refrigeration, make sure to have an adequate generator to power your house until electricity is restored so the medicine does not go bad. Flashlights, weather radios, matches, batteries, and all the other pertinent survival tools should be readily available as well.
Remember, it's up to you to protect your family. Make a plan to beat the storm, and know when it will be too much to ride it out.
