How do I prepare for hurricane season in my Gainesville apartment?

From June 1 to November 30, Florida enters hurricane season. Once winds reach sustained speeds of 74 mph or higher, these storms are classified as hurricanes, rated on a scale from 1 to 5 based on wind intensity. While Florida may occasionally have years without hurricanes, it's crucial to have a preparedness plan in place. Unlike typical afternoon thunderstorms, hurricanes can lead to severe flooding, downed power lines, damaged transformers, and widespread power outages. The National Hurricane Center is an excellent resource for tracking storms and preparing your Gainesville apartment.

What Supplies Do I Need?

The best time to gather supplies is before hurricane season kicks off. Once a warning is issued, it may be too late—stores can close or run out of essentials. Start by assembling an emergency kit.

  • Water: Aim for at least one gallon per person for a minimum of three days.
  • Non-Perishable Foods: Stock up on items that don't require refrigeration, as power outages can affect perishables.
  • Lighting: Battery-operated flashlights or lanterns are essential for navigating in the dark. Don't forget extra batteries!
  • Gasoline: Fill your car's gas tank ahead of time, as fuel deliveries may be disrupted.
  • Medications: Refill any essential prescriptions, and consider over-the-counter items like pain relievers and antacids.
  • Child Care: If you have young children, ensure you have enough formula, diapers, and wipes. For older kids, gather books, games, and puzzles to keep them entertained.
  • Pet Supplies: Don't forget your furry friends! Stock up on extra dog or cat food to ensure they're taken care of during the storm.

How Do I Prepare My Gainesville Apartment?

To safeguard your apartment from hurricane damage, take the following steps:

  • Clear Away Valuables: Move belongings away from windows to prevent damage from flying debris.
  • Secure Outdoor Items: Bring in patio furniture and other outdoor items to prevent them from becoming projectiles in high winds.
  • Know Your Flood Zone: If your apartment is in a flood zone, be aware that first-floor units may be at risk of flooding. Even if you're above the first floor, you might be unable to leave until waters recede.
  • Use Covered Parking: If available, park in a garage or under a covered awning to protect your vehicle from storm debris.
  • Review Your Renter's Insurance: Make sure your policy is up-to-date. If you don't have renter's insurance, consider getting a policy for affordable protection of your belongings.

What Else Should I Know About Hurricanes?

Even if your Gainesville apartment is inland, you should still be aware of the risks:

  • Storm Surges: Coastal areas can experience storm surges, pushing water inland. While Gainesville is over an hour from the beach, heavy rains can lead to flooding and structural damage in your area.
  • Rising Rivers: Increased rainfall can cause rivers to rise and currents to become dangerously strong.
  • Tornadoes: Hurricanes can spawn tornadoes, which may pass quickly but can be highly destructive.

Have an Evacuation Plan: If evacuation becomes necessary, familiarize yourself with possible routes. Since Interstate-75 runs through Gainesville, research towns along the way where you could stay. Always consider alternative routes, as downed trees or flooding might block your primary path.

By preparing in advance, you can ensure the safety of yourself and your loved ones during hurricane season. Stay informed, stay safe, and remember: preparedness is key!

These are the opinions of writers and not the opinions of SwampRentals.com or any of our advertising partners.