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The 2024 hurricane season has already left its mark across six southern states, with Hurricane Helene’s devastating impact spreading over 500 miles. As residents are still in the midst of recovery efforts, Hurricane Milton looms on the horizon, threatening to bring another round of destruction. The National Hurricane Center forecasts that Milton could quickly intensify as it moves across the Gulf of Mexico, potentially reaching the west coast of Florida mid-week as a category four hurricane.
For those of you in or near the projected impact zone, we recognize the anxiety and stress this forecast may cause, especially if you or a loved one are managing chronic health conditions. To help you through this tough time, we've gathered tips from trusted sources and our PLM community members who've faced storms while managing chronic illnesses.
Stay Informed About Storm Updates and Act Now
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) emphasizes that now is the time to prepare. Don't wait – take the forecast seriously. Download free weather apps for real-time weather alerts and information on local emergency shelters. Stay tuned to local officials and monitor local radio or TV stations for updated emergency information. Here are some methods you can use to stay up to date:
- All Call, Reverse 911, Code Red, etc. - 1 of a number of automated telephoning systems for sending recorded messages
- Emergency Alert System (EAS) - information provided on the radio and television and wireless emergency alerts
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Alert Radio
- Residential route alerting, which dispatches public safety vehicles through neighborhoods announcing messages with public address systems or literally knocking on doors
- U.S. Coast Guard Marine Broadcast
Medication Management During a Hurricane
Proper medication management is truly a matter of life and death. The more you prepare in advance, the better it will be for your health.
- Contact your healthcare provider to discuss potential disruptions in medication access and make a plan for refills or alternatives.
- Ask for an emergency two-week supply of all prescription and over-the-counter medications you regularly use.
- Keep a detailed, waterproof list of your medications, including dosages and pharmacy information.
When Hurricane Sandy was heading our way, most people did not take it seriously because we do not usually get bad hurricanes in NY, but I knew I couldn't take any chances with my medications. I have type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure, so being without my meds wasn't an option. I called my doctor and got an extended emergency supply of all my prescriptions. I also threw in some instant cold packs in case I needed to keep my insulin cool without power. It was stressful, but having that prep done gave me one less thing to worry about when we had to evacuate.”
PatientsLikeMe member since 2009, living with Type 2 Diabetes
Prepare Your Emergency Kit for Chronic Illness
In addition to standard emergency supplies, when you are packing your hurricane kit be sure to include:
- Medical essentials like syringes, needles, inhalers, and blood sugar monitoring equipment.
- Personal items such as comfortable clothing and toiletries.
- A charged phone with important contact numbers and a battery-powered radio if you have one
- Include backup batteries and chargers for your devices (cell phone, CPAP, oxygen tanks, wheelchair, etc.)
- Keep personal, financial, and medical records safe and easy to access (hard copies or securely backed up)—the list of your medications and dosages on a small card to carry with you.
- The Red Cross provides several easy-to-download checklists for supplies if you plan to evacuate or if you want to shelter safely in place.
I am on oxygen and to prepare for natural disasters, I've rented a 10 litre medical grade oxygen cylinder with adapter and mask. It would give me about 6-8 hours to get to a hospital. I also have 2 smaller canisters (first aid type) which I picked up on Amazon for my grab-and-go 72 hour emergency kit."
PatientsLikeMe member since 2014, living with epilepsy
Create an Evacuation Plan
- Identify nearby special needs shelters if you require additional medical accommodations.
- If you need help evacuating, FEMA has coordinated a shuttle system that is available for those in a county with an evacuation order in place. Call 800-729-3413 for evacuation assistance.
- Arrange your own transportation, considering potential road closures and traffic congestion.
- Inform family and healthcare providers about your evacuation plan and designate an out-of-area contact person.
- If local authorities advise you to evacuate, go right away.
Considerations If You Shelter in Place
If it is safe for you to stay where you are, be prepared to be without power or internet for an extended period of time. If your condition requires electricity to keep you safe and healthy, remember:
- Plan for backup power sources like generators or battery-powered medical devices.
- Remember that gas pumps, ATMs, and medical equipment may not work during a power outage, so stockpile your supplies to last a minimum of three weeks.
- Check your insurance policies for both home and safety protection. Many plans offer reimbursement if medication is lost or damaged due to weather events.
Without power I always worry about my medication getting ruined. I recommend you pick up a block of ice (lasts longer than cubes) and stick it in the freezer. It will keep your meds for a while in a cooler if necessary.
Also - one thing I learned, your home owners insurance might replace your meds. I didn't have a problem with mine, but my neighbor lost a couple of thousand dollars worth of insulin and they got their money back through a claim, so always read your full policy. Make sure your insurance is paid up, and hope.
PatientsLikeMe member since 2011, living with Multiple Sclerosis
- Know your designated safe shelter space for high winds - Stay away from glass windows and doors.
- Be aware that flooding can happen quickly. Have a plan to evacuate fast before floodwaters reach you -- Move to higher ground before flooding begins.
Mental Health Support
The stress of an impending hurricane can be overwhelming, especially for those still recovering from recent storms. FEMA provides a Disaster Distress Helpline for confidential counseling and support. Call or text 1-800-985-5990 (press "2" for Spanish).
Community Support For Preparing for a Hurricane with Chronic Illness
Check on your neighbors, especially older adults or those who may need additional assistance. Inform them about your medical needs and ask if they can help if necessary.
Don't be afraid to reach out to your neighbors – you might be surprised how willing people are to help. I can barely put any weight on my ankle after my last hospital visit and I saw my neighbor outside so I called to him and he gladly came over and moved my outdoor furniture into my shed and tied up my grill. I don’t know what I would have done without him. It reminded me that even in tough times, we're stronger together.”
PatientsLikeMe member since 2014, living with Chronic Kidney Disease
Visit PatientsLikeMe to connect with a supportive community that understands your unique concerns:
- Share experiences and gather insights from others who have weathered storms while managing their health conditions.
- Access crowd-sourced information on local resources and preparation strategies specific to your health needs.
- Find emotional support and practical advice from people who truly understand your situation.
Stay Safe During the Storm
Once the storm hits, vigilance is more important than ever. FEMA provides these crucial safety tips:
- Keep your gas tank at least half full to ensure you can evacuate if needed.
- Never drive through flooded areas – turn around, don't drown.
- Stay out of floodwater, which may be electrically charged or contain hazards.
- Use only flashlights or battery-powered lanterns for emergency lighting, never candles.
By taking these steps now, you can better protect your health and safety as the rough weather approaches. Remember, preparation is key. Stay informed, stay safe, and support one another through this challenging time.
You're not alone – join PatientsLikeMe to connect with others who understand your health concerns and can share their own storm readiness tips.