Do you live in an area where extreme weather is possible? Surviving extreme weather all starts with proper preparedness and safety knowledge!
Whether it’s heat waves, blizzards, hurricanes, or tornadoes, you should always be ready for the worst. But it’s difficult to know exactly what you’ll need, as specific weather will require certain supplies. So, keep reading to learn about what you might need on hand for any extreme weather that comes your way!
Tips for Surviving Heat Waves
Global warming is increasingly becoming an issue. And as a result, heat waves seem to be more common. With this in mind, you should prepare for when, not if, one occurs.
1. Wear Loose Clothing
There’s nothing worse than having your clothes stick to you while you’re sweating. Not only this, but tight clothing can keep heat trapped close to your body. So, your best option is to wear loose clothing when a heat wave makes its way through. You should also wear light-colored clothing, as it can help reflect sunlight rather than absorb it.
2. Stay Hydrated
Drinking water is one of the most important things you need to do while surviving extreme weather like heat waves. Hydration is key in regulating your body temperature and promoting healthy organs. The National Institutes of Health recommends drinking anywhere from 9-13 cups of water daily. But if temperatures are high, you may want to drink more than this, especially if you have to be outside.
3. Limit Physical Activity
Never force yourself to do physical activity when a heat wave rolls in. Exercise, especially outside, in this weather will cause excessive sweating. This will then lead to dehydration and heat exhaustion. You might also experience heat stroke, where your body essentially shuts down due to temperature regulation issues. This will require a hospital visit.
4. Stay Out of the Sun
To survive extreme weather like a heat wave, the best option is to stay indoors or in the shade. The temperatures will typically be hottest in the afternoon, which is when you should especially observe this tip. Make use of air conditioners and oscillating fans to keep you cool. And if you don’t have either of these things, find somewhere that does.
Tips for Surviving Blizzards
Cold weather and blizzards go hand in hand. So, you’ll need to account for the temperatures and the snow itself when preparing.
5. Stock Up on Essentials
Blizzards can make quite a mess and make it very difficult to travel. It’s common for a blizzard to drop a foot or more of snow. So, you can expect to be stuck in your house for hours or even days until roads are completely cleared. This means you should stock up on food, water, pet food, medications, and anything else you’ll need. Try to get enough supplies for at least a few days.
6. Prepare for a Power Outage With Generators, Flashlights, and Charging Stations
Surviving extreme weather like a blizzard will require you to stock up on alternative electricity options. Portable power stations, generators, and flashlights are all helpful things to have on hand. Always keep your phones charged in case you need help or need to check on loved ones. While a generator isn’t required, it’s a good idea to have one to keep the heat and fridge running.
7. Wear Multiple Layers, Especially During Snow Removal
You should always wear layers and ensure you have enough winter clothing. The power may go out, and you might need to rely solely on clothing for warmth. And you’ll especially need extra layers when removing the snow. The temperatures will be cold enough for frostbite, and the blizzard wind will make it feel colder than it is.
8. Prepare Your Car
To survive extreme weather such as a blizzard, you’ll always want to ensure your car is ready, too. Keep blankets, flashlights, chargers, shovels, water, and snacks in your trunk in case you get stranded. This is also important if you lose power inside your home. You can use your car to warm up and charge your electronics.
Tips for Surviving Hurricanes and Tornadoes
Hurricanes and tornadoes are usually warm weather storms. So, you usually won’t need to worry about freezing temperatures when learning how to survive extreme weather like this. But water and wind are two things you’ll definitely need to prepare for.
9. Stay Inside and Away From Windows
High winds are most likely going to happen with both hurricanes and tornadoes. This can lead to falling trees, broken windows, and other damage. It’s crucial to stay away from windows, as you don’t want to get injured from glass or debris. Staying in your basement is typically the safest place to be. Never go outside during the storm.
10. Know Your Evacuation Route or Plan and Stay Updated
To survive extreme weather like tornadoes and hurricanes, you need to have your evacuation plan ready. If things get bad enough, you may need to leave your home and take shelter somewhere else. This is especially true if your home gets severely damaged. Most hurricane-prone areas have safety plans that provide evacuation routes. Know your route and stay up to date with a weather radio.
11. Ensure You Have Clean Water and Nonperishable Food
Hurricanes and tornadoes can cause significant power outages that can last days to weeks. So, along with flashlights, you may want to stock up on canned and dry foods. And don’t forget to stock up on bottled water as well. Hurricanes and tornadoes have the power to damage pipelines, which can lead to contaminated water.
12. Buy or Prepare a First Aid Kit
Surviving extreme weather like tornadoes and hurricanes can often cause injuries due to flying debris, flooding, and more. It might be challenging to get to the hospital, so it’s a good idea to create or buy a first aid kit. Having helmets with your kit is a good idea, too if you’re expecting an Enhanced Fujita (EF) 3-5 tornado. You’ll want to protect your head from debris.
Wrapping Up Surviving Extreme Weather
Getting caught in a natural disaster can be devastating and may lead to property damage, injuries, and more. That’s why it’s vital to have a plan for each kind of weather to ensure you and your family stay safe. Hopefully, the above tips for surviving extreme weather will help you feel a little more prepared!
Do you need more ideas on survival tools for when extreme weather hits? Check out our post on 29 Everyday Items You Can Use As Survival Items for more ideas!
Ed spent his childhood in the backwoods of Maine, where harsh winters taught him the value of survival skills. With a background in bushcraft and off-grid living, Ed has honed his expertise in fire-making, hunting, and wild foraging. He writes from personal experience, sharing practical tips and hands-on techniques to thrive in any outdoor environment. Whether it’s primitive camping or full-scale survival, Ed’s advice is grounded in real-life challenges.
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