Guide · Disasters and emergencies

Hurricanes and severe storms

Hurricanes, typhoons and severe storms bring damaging winds, flooding and power cuts. You usually get a few days' warning, which is your chance to get ready.

Before storm season

• Know whether you live in a flood or storm-surge area, and where your nearest shelter is.
• Keep a grab bag and enough water and food for at least three days.
• Trim dead branches near your home and keep gutters clear.
• Know how to shut off gas, electricity and water.

When a storm is forecast

1. Follow instructions from your local authorities. If you're told to evacuate, leave early.
2. Bring in or tie down garden furniture, bins and anything the wind could throw.
3. Close and secure shutters. If you have none, board up large windows if you can. Tape doesn't stop glass breaking.
4. Charge phones and power banks. Fill your car with fuel.
5. Fill bottles and a bath with water.
6. Set your fridge and freezer to their coldest settings.
7. Check on neighbours who may need help.

During the storm

• Stay indoors and away from windows and glass doors.
• Go to a small inner room, cupboard or hallway on the lowest floor that won't flood.
• If the wind suddenly drops, you may be in the eye of the storm. Stay put: the winds will return from the other direction.
• Never go outside to check on damage until the storm has fully passed.
• Don't walk or drive through floodwater. 15 cm of moving water can knock you down, and 30–60 cm can float a car.
• If you use a generator, keep it outside and well away from windows. Never run it indoors or in a garage.

After the storm

• Wait for the all-clear from the authorities before going out.
• Stay well away from fallen power lines. Treat every cable as live.
• Watch for damaged buildings, broken glass and hanging branches.
• Don't drink tap water until you're told it's safe.
• Take photos of damage before you start clearing up.
• If someone is injured or trapped, call your local emergency number (112 in Europe and many other countries, 911 in North America).

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