Neighborhood Storm Readiness
As the city enters another hurricane season, we are reminded that we are vulnerable to nature’s furry. Most of us would like to place hurricane preparations on our “B” or “C” list of priorities because so many chores and duties take up our time. We may think that we are ready, or can be ready in just a short time, but you may be surprised at how much time it takes to prepare for a major storm. Just consider how long it takes you to pack for a trip or vacation, and that is something that you want to do. I know. I just got back from Brussels, and I am a planner.

Recently, the hurricane predictors estimated how many hurricanes the area might experience in the coming year. In my opinion, I think such a government endeavor misses the mark. It is not how many hurricanes that may impact you, but if one should hit our area. Consider that hurricane Andrew was the first hurricane that year to hit the east coast and that it was a Cat 5. South of Miami was devastated while the residents were obviously aware of a hurricane’s potential.

We can only do so much here in VB, but we can put together a basic plan for ourselves and family. The city cannot provide enough storm shelters to help out more than about 10% of the people in the most endangered flood prone areas. If you plan on evacuating the area, consider that it will be very difficult if done too late (within 36-48 hours or more before the onset of TROPICAL Force Winds).

So, if you cannot evacuate, your area floods and there are no shelters for you and your family, what are your options? Stay where you are or hope to find a friend in a safer area? I think this is the time to to consider such principle questions for your basic planning, not when the weather lady points out a developing tropical depression that is soon to be named a hurricane.

If you do anything for yourself and family, consider what you would need in a basic emergency kit for your home to provide three days of support. There are multiple sites to help with your list making and planning. SDCC will put more information on our website to help with your planning shortly.