1 00:00:00,000 --> 00:00:02,160 Hey everybody and welcome back to Meteorology Matters. 2 00:00:02,160 --> 00:00:02,920 Can you believe it? 3 00:00:02,920 --> 00:00:06,040 Only a hundred days left until the official start 4 00:00:06,040 --> 00:00:08,720 of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season. 5 00:00:08,720 --> 00:00:10,640 It's crazy how fast time flies, right? 6 00:00:10,640 --> 00:00:11,480 It really is. 7 00:00:11,480 --> 00:00:13,320 And with hurricane season just around the corner, 8 00:00:13,320 --> 00:00:15,120 my social media feeds are already blowing up 9 00:00:15,120 --> 00:00:17,960 with all those hurricane memes and prep lists and articles. 10 00:00:17,960 --> 00:00:18,800 Oh yeah. 11 00:00:18,800 --> 00:00:19,680 It's got me thinking like, 12 00:00:19,680 --> 00:00:22,120 should we be freaking out yet or is it too early? 13 00:00:22,120 --> 00:00:23,880 Well, you know, it's never too early 14 00:00:23,880 --> 00:00:26,080 to start thinking about hurricane preparedness, 15 00:00:26,080 --> 00:00:29,160 but I think instead of full on panic mode right now, 16 00:00:29,160 --> 00:00:31,360 maybe let's just take this as a good opportunity 17 00:00:31,360 --> 00:00:32,280 for a little checkup. 18 00:00:32,280 --> 00:00:34,040 Okay, so like a preparedness checkup, 19 00:00:34,040 --> 00:00:36,280 instead of loading up on all the canned goods just yet. 20 00:00:36,280 --> 00:00:38,880 Exactly, we've got time, but now's the perfect time 21 00:00:38,880 --> 00:00:40,800 to kind of take stock and make sure we're ready 22 00:00:40,800 --> 00:00:44,080 for whatever this year's hurricane season might throw at us. 23 00:00:44,080 --> 00:00:46,280 Okay, that sounds a lot more manageable than, you know, 24 00:00:46,280 --> 00:00:47,760 diving head first into panic mode. 25 00:00:47,760 --> 00:00:50,120 So no need to rate the grocery store just yet, 26 00:00:50,120 --> 00:00:52,280 but speaking of what's to come, 27 00:00:52,280 --> 00:00:54,280 any hints about what kind of season we might be in for? 28 00:00:54,280 --> 00:00:56,080 Are we talking a quiet hurricane season 29 00:00:56,080 --> 00:00:58,960 or should we brace ourselves for a lot of activity? 30 00:00:58,960 --> 00:01:01,720 Well, you know, predicting hurricane season intensity 31 00:01:01,720 --> 00:01:03,600 this far out is kind of like trying 32 00:01:03,600 --> 00:01:05,880 to predict the weather months in advance. 33 00:01:05,880 --> 00:01:07,240 There are some clues we can look at, 34 00:01:07,240 --> 00:01:09,320 but it's not an exact science, you know? 35 00:01:09,320 --> 00:01:12,200 So right now we're in what we call a neutral ENSO phase. 36 00:01:12,200 --> 00:01:13,040 ENSO. 37 00:01:13,040 --> 00:01:14,840 Right, that means that neither El Nino nor La Niña 38 00:01:14,840 --> 00:01:17,440 are really influencing the weather patterns at the moment. 39 00:01:17,440 --> 00:01:20,040 And historically speaking, neutral years 40 00:01:20,040 --> 00:01:22,200 have produced a real mix, you know, 41 00:01:22,200 --> 00:01:24,160 some quiet seasons, some very active, 42 00:01:24,160 --> 00:01:25,920 so it's a bit of a toss up at this point. 43 00:01:25,920 --> 00:01:28,000 So basically it's a wait and see kind of situation. 44 00:01:28,000 --> 00:01:30,240 Exactly, we kind of got to see how things develop, 45 00:01:30,240 --> 00:01:31,960 but there are a couple of interesting factors 46 00:01:31,960 --> 00:01:32,800 at play this year. 47 00:01:32,800 --> 00:01:34,800 You know, one thing is the gulf waters 48 00:01:34,800 --> 00:01:36,480 are unusually warm right now. 49 00:01:36,480 --> 00:01:37,320 Really? 50 00:01:37,320 --> 00:01:38,280 Yeah, and that extra heat, 51 00:01:38,280 --> 00:01:40,280 well, it can really fuel storm development, 52 00:01:40,280 --> 00:01:41,800 so that's something to keep an eye on. 53 00:01:41,800 --> 00:01:42,640 But on the other hand, 54 00:01:42,640 --> 00:01:44,440 we've also had some pretty strong cold fronts 55 00:01:44,440 --> 00:01:47,000 and Arctic air pushing down, which could cool things down. 56 00:01:47,000 --> 00:01:49,160 So it's a real, it's a fascinating 57 00:01:49,160 --> 00:01:52,160 meteorological balancing act that's happening right now. 58 00:01:52,160 --> 00:01:54,160 It sounds like a lot of factors to keep track of. 59 00:01:54,160 --> 00:01:55,000 It really is. 60 00:01:55,000 --> 00:01:56,640 I'll definitely be checking for those updates 61 00:01:56,640 --> 00:01:58,640 as we get closer to June. 62 00:01:58,640 --> 00:02:00,520 You know, I used to think hurricane preparedness 63 00:02:00,520 --> 00:02:02,360 was only something folks living right on the coast 64 00:02:02,360 --> 00:02:03,520 had to worry about, 65 00:02:03,520 --> 00:02:05,080 but lately I've been hearing so much more 66 00:02:05,080 --> 00:02:07,320 about inland areas getting slammed too. 67 00:02:07,320 --> 00:02:09,560 Like is that a growing trend? 68 00:02:09,560 --> 00:02:10,920 Something we need to be thinking about 69 00:02:10,920 --> 00:02:12,640 even if we're miles from the ocean. 70 00:02:12,640 --> 00:02:15,000 Oh, absolutely, you're right on the money with that one. 71 00:02:15,000 --> 00:02:17,160 While wind and storm surge are usually 72 00:02:17,160 --> 00:02:19,640 the biggest concerns for coastal areas, 73 00:02:19,640 --> 00:02:22,080 the threat of inland flooding from hurricanes, 74 00:02:22,080 --> 00:02:24,200 that's becoming a much more significant factor. 75 00:02:24,200 --> 00:02:26,400 And we saw a really dramatic example of this 76 00:02:26,400 --> 00:02:28,600 with Hurricane Helene a few years back. 77 00:02:28,600 --> 00:02:31,280 Helene, I don't remember that one making a live fall. 78 00:02:31,280 --> 00:02:32,520 You know, you're right, it didn't. 79 00:02:32,520 --> 00:02:35,200 Helene actually stayed offshore, but it's rain bands. 80 00:02:35,200 --> 00:02:38,720 Those were massive and they stretched so far inland, 81 00:02:38,720 --> 00:02:40,560 dumping incredible amounts of rain 82 00:02:40,560 --> 00:02:42,520 all across the Eastern US. 83 00:02:42,520 --> 00:02:44,880 The floods that followed were just devastating, 84 00:02:44,880 --> 00:02:47,080 particularly in the Appalachian region. 85 00:02:47,080 --> 00:02:49,280 It was a real wake up call that these hurricanes 86 00:02:49,280 --> 00:02:52,000 can pack a punch far beyond the coastline. 87 00:02:52,000 --> 00:02:53,640 Wow, I had no idea hurricane 88 00:02:53,640 --> 00:02:55,440 could cause that much damage so far inland. 89 00:02:55,440 --> 00:02:57,000 Yeah, you know, it's a common misconception. 90 00:02:57,000 --> 00:02:59,680 People think if they're not right on the coast, they're safe, 91 00:02:59,680 --> 00:03:01,680 but that heavy rainfall from hurricanes 92 00:03:01,680 --> 00:03:04,240 can cause rivers and streams to overflow, 93 00:03:04,240 --> 00:03:07,080 leading to widespread flooding hundreds of miles inland. 94 00:03:07,080 --> 00:03:08,640 So even if we're not right on the coast 95 00:03:08,640 --> 00:03:10,360 and worried about wind and storm surge flooding 96 00:03:10,360 --> 00:03:11,680 is still a huge concern. 97 00:03:11,680 --> 00:03:12,520 Exactly. 98 00:03:12,520 --> 00:03:14,760 And this is making me think I need to take a closer look 99 00:03:14,760 --> 00:03:16,800 at my homeowners insurance policy. 100 00:03:16,800 --> 00:03:18,640 Does that usually cover flood damage? 101 00:03:18,640 --> 00:03:19,480 That's a great point. 102 00:03:19,480 --> 00:03:22,160 And honestly, something everyone should double check. 103 00:03:22,160 --> 00:03:23,480 Standard homeowners insurance 104 00:03:23,480 --> 00:03:25,160 typically doesn't cover flood damage. 105 00:03:25,160 --> 00:03:28,080 So you might need to purchase a separate flood insurance policy. 106 00:03:28,080 --> 00:03:31,720 Okay, so insurance checkup that's officially on my to-do list. 107 00:03:31,720 --> 00:03:33,520 What else should we be thinking about right now 108 00:03:33,520 --> 00:03:34,960 as we prep for hurricane season? 109 00:03:34,960 --> 00:03:37,200 Are there any other really crucial steps? 110 00:03:37,200 --> 00:03:39,640 Well, I always tell people to focus on three key areas. 111 00:03:39,640 --> 00:03:41,520 Insurance, as we just discussed then, 112 00:03:41,520 --> 00:03:42,960 a solid evacuation plan, 113 00:03:42,960 --> 00:03:46,160 and of course, putting together that disaster supplies kit. 114 00:03:46,160 --> 00:03:47,440 A little effort now can save you 115 00:03:47,440 --> 00:03:49,400 so much stress and heartache down the road. 116 00:03:49,400 --> 00:03:50,560 It makes sense to be prepared. 117 00:03:50,560 --> 00:03:52,480 All right, so let's break those areas down one by one. 118 00:03:52,480 --> 00:03:54,040 We've covered the insurance part. 119 00:03:54,040 --> 00:03:55,560 What about evacuation plans? 120 00:03:55,560 --> 00:03:56,800 Where should we even start with that? 121 00:03:56,800 --> 00:03:57,640 First things first, 122 00:03:57,640 --> 00:03:59,160 you gotta know your evacuation zone. 123 00:03:59,160 --> 00:04:00,000 Oh, right? 124 00:04:00,000 --> 00:04:02,560 You can find that information on ready.gov 125 00:04:02,560 --> 00:04:05,200 or by using the FLSH tool. 126 00:04:05,200 --> 00:04:06,360 Once you know your zone, 127 00:04:06,360 --> 00:04:07,480 sit down with your family 128 00:04:07,480 --> 00:04:09,440 and map out a clear evacuation plan. 129 00:04:09,440 --> 00:04:11,280 Think about where will you go? 130 00:04:11,280 --> 00:04:12,360 How will you get there? 131 00:04:12,360 --> 00:04:13,720 What if the roads are closed? 132 00:04:13,720 --> 00:04:15,240 And don't forget about your kits. 133 00:04:15,240 --> 00:04:17,120 So it's not just knowing where to go, 134 00:04:17,120 --> 00:04:18,960 but having a plan B 135 00:04:18,960 --> 00:04:20,840 and thinking through all the details. 136 00:04:20,840 --> 00:04:21,680 Precisely. 137 00:04:21,680 --> 00:04:23,120 And once you've got that plan in place, 138 00:04:23,120 --> 00:04:24,560 don't just tuck it away in a drawer 139 00:04:24,560 --> 00:04:25,960 and forget about it, practice it. 140 00:04:25,960 --> 00:04:28,280 Especially if you have kids or pets involved. 141 00:04:28,280 --> 00:04:30,360 A few practice runs can make all the difference 142 00:04:30,360 --> 00:04:32,600 when it comes to reacting calmly and efficiently 143 00:04:32,600 --> 00:04:33,720 in a real emergency. 144 00:04:33,720 --> 00:04:34,880 Practice makes perfect, right? 145 00:04:34,880 --> 00:04:36,520 Especially when it comes to safety. 146 00:04:36,520 --> 00:04:38,720 Now let's talk about those disasters of size. 147 00:04:38,720 --> 00:04:42,120 What are the absolute must haves for our hurricane kit? 148 00:04:42,120 --> 00:04:44,280 Aim for at least three days worth of supplies, 149 00:04:44,280 --> 00:04:45,360 ideally more. 150 00:04:45,360 --> 00:04:47,080 You know, power and water could be out 151 00:04:47,080 --> 00:04:48,400 for weeks after a major storm. 152 00:04:48,400 --> 00:04:51,440 So we're talking non-perishable food bottled water, 153 00:04:51,440 --> 00:04:52,920 any essential medications. 154 00:04:52,920 --> 00:04:56,080 Okay, so canned goods, water, first aid kit. 155 00:04:56,080 --> 00:04:56,920 Got it. 156 00:04:56,920 --> 00:04:58,680 What else tends to slip people's minds? 157 00:04:58,680 --> 00:05:00,760 Oh, things like cash, a battery powered 158 00:05:00,760 --> 00:05:03,280 or hand crank weather radio flashlights 159 00:05:03,280 --> 00:05:04,600 with extra batteries. 160 00:05:04,600 --> 00:05:06,160 And oh, a manual can opener. 161 00:05:06,160 --> 00:05:07,600 You don't want to be stuck with a can of soup 162 00:05:07,600 --> 00:05:08,600 and no way to open it. 163 00:05:08,600 --> 00:05:10,880 And of course, don't forget about your furry family members. 164 00:05:10,880 --> 00:05:12,200 Make sure you have enough food, water 165 00:05:12,200 --> 00:05:13,680 and medications for them too. 166 00:05:13,680 --> 00:05:14,840 Those are great reminders. 167 00:05:14,840 --> 00:05:15,880 You know, while I was scrolling through 168 00:05:15,880 --> 00:05:17,800 all those hurricane prep posts, 169 00:05:17,800 --> 00:05:20,080 I came across one suggesting that we should document 170 00:05:20,080 --> 00:05:22,240 our possessions before hurricane season. 171 00:05:22,240 --> 00:05:23,080 Oh yeah. 172 00:05:23,080 --> 00:05:23,920 Like take photos of everything, 173 00:05:23,920 --> 00:05:25,840 note serial numbers, that sort of thing. 174 00:05:25,840 --> 00:05:27,800 It seemed a little excessive. 175 00:05:27,800 --> 00:05:29,400 Is there really any benefit to doing that? 176 00:05:29,400 --> 00:05:31,200 You know, it might seem like overkill, 177 00:05:31,200 --> 00:05:33,480 but trust me, it can be a lifesaver 178 00:05:33,480 --> 00:05:36,680 if you need to file insurance claims after a storm. 179 00:05:36,680 --> 00:05:39,200 Having that detailed inventory of your belongings, 180 00:05:39,200 --> 00:05:41,640 especially with photos and serial numbers, 181 00:05:41,640 --> 00:05:43,920 it can make the claims process so much smoother 182 00:05:43,920 --> 00:05:45,480 and way less stressful. 183 00:05:45,480 --> 00:05:47,400 So documenting everything it is that, okay, 184 00:05:47,400 --> 00:05:49,360 so we've covered insurance evacuation plans 185 00:05:49,360 --> 00:05:52,040 and disaster supplies, that's a lot to think about. 186 00:05:52,040 --> 00:05:54,040 But I'm already starting to feel a little more prepared 187 00:05:54,040 --> 00:05:54,960 just talking about it. 188 00:05:54,960 --> 00:05:56,040 That's great to hear. 189 00:05:56,040 --> 00:05:57,800 Is there anything else we should be doing right now 190 00:05:57,800 --> 00:05:59,480 to get ready for hurricane season? 191 00:05:59,480 --> 00:06:00,920 Well, this might seem obvious, 192 00:06:00,920 --> 00:06:02,840 but I'd strongly advise against 193 00:06:02,840 --> 00:06:04,760 planning any big trips to the Caribbean 194 00:06:04,760 --> 00:06:08,400 or the Mexican Riviera during peak hurricane season. 195 00:06:08,400 --> 00:06:09,320 You're telling me. 196 00:06:09,320 --> 00:06:11,720 I had a friend who booked a dream trip to Cancun 197 00:06:11,720 --> 00:06:13,720 a few years back, right smack in the middle 198 00:06:13,720 --> 00:06:15,160 of hurricane season. 199 00:06:15,160 --> 00:06:17,520 And let's just say it was more hunkering down 200 00:06:17,520 --> 00:06:19,600 in a shelter than margaritas by the pool. 201 00:06:19,600 --> 00:06:20,520 Oh no. 202 00:06:20,520 --> 00:06:22,880 Not exactly the relaxing getaway they had in mind. 203 00:06:22,880 --> 00:06:24,480 Yeah, I can imagine. 204 00:06:24,480 --> 00:06:25,760 All right, so no drop of vacations 205 00:06:25,760 --> 00:06:26,960 during hurricane season, got it. 206 00:06:26,960 --> 00:06:29,240 Exactly, and remember hurricane preparedness 207 00:06:29,240 --> 00:06:30,560 doesn't have to be overwhelming. 208 00:06:30,560 --> 00:06:32,960 Start small tackle one task at a time 209 00:06:32,960 --> 00:06:35,040 and you'll be amazed at how prepared you feel 210 00:06:35,040 --> 00:06:36,800 by the time June 1st rolls around. 211 00:06:36,800 --> 00:06:37,960 You're right, small steps now 212 00:06:37,960 --> 00:06:39,320 can make a world of difference later. 213 00:06:39,320 --> 00:06:40,360 Absolutely. 214 00:06:40,360 --> 00:06:42,040 And speaking of taking small steps, 215 00:06:42,040 --> 00:06:44,480 don't forget to follow meteorologist Rob Jones 216 00:06:44,480 --> 00:06:48,240 on Instagram, meteorologist on TikTok TV meteorologist, 217 00:06:48,240 --> 00:06:50,760 and on YouTube follow Rob Jones Hurricane 218 00:06:50,760 --> 00:06:52,800 where you can also find the meteorology matters 219 00:06:52,800 --> 00:06:54,280 podcast playlist. 220 00:06:54,280 --> 00:06:55,120 Great advice. 221 00:06:55,120 --> 00:06:56,840 He shares some really helpful insights 222 00:06:56,840 --> 00:06:57,920 and updates throughout the year. 223 00:06:57,920 --> 00:06:59,040 He does a great job. 224 00:06:59,040 --> 00:07:00,080 Well, that wraps up part one 225 00:07:00,080 --> 00:07:02,440 of our meteorology matters hurricane preparedness special. 226 00:07:02,440 --> 00:07:04,160 Stay tuned for part two where we'll dive 227 00:07:04,160 --> 00:07:06,320 into some unexpected hurricane prep tips 228 00:07:06,320 --> 00:07:08,440 and answer your burning questions. 229 00:07:08,440 --> 00:07:09,880 Welcome back to meteorology matters. 230 00:07:09,880 --> 00:07:11,680 So glad you're sticking with us for part two 231 00:07:11,680 --> 00:07:13,320 of our hurricane preparedness special. 232 00:07:13,320 --> 00:07:15,080 And the last thing that we talked about, 233 00:07:15,080 --> 00:07:16,840 you know, insurance evacuation plans, 234 00:07:16,840 --> 00:07:18,720 disaster supply kits, all those essential 235 00:07:18,720 --> 00:07:19,920 hurricane prep steps. 236 00:07:19,920 --> 00:07:20,760 The basics. 237 00:07:20,760 --> 00:07:21,600 Right. 238 00:07:21,600 --> 00:07:22,880 But it turns out there's a whole other level 239 00:07:22,880 --> 00:07:25,080 of preparedness that I hadn't even considered. 240 00:07:25,080 --> 00:07:27,440 Like some really clever and unexpected tips. 241 00:07:27,440 --> 00:07:29,000 Oh yeah, there's some good ones out there. 242 00:07:29,000 --> 00:07:30,440 Like for example, I saw this tip 243 00:07:30,440 --> 00:07:32,240 about filling your bathtub with water 244 00:07:32,240 --> 00:07:33,560 before hurricane hits. 245 00:07:33,560 --> 00:07:36,000 And at first I was like, why on earth would I do that? 246 00:07:36,000 --> 00:07:36,840 But then I thought about it. 247 00:07:36,840 --> 00:07:38,560 It's actually a really practical idea 248 00:07:38,560 --> 00:07:40,640 if the water supply gets disrupted, 249 00:07:40,640 --> 00:07:42,720 which can definitely happen after a hurricane. 250 00:07:42,720 --> 00:07:44,800 You've got a bathtub full of water ready to go. 251 00:07:44,800 --> 00:07:46,280 You can use it for flushing toilets, 252 00:07:46,280 --> 00:07:48,440 washing dishes, even basic hygiene. 253 00:07:48,440 --> 00:07:49,920 It's not for drinking obviously. 254 00:07:49,920 --> 00:07:50,760 Right, not for drinking, 255 00:07:50,760 --> 00:07:53,320 but for those other necessities, super helpful. 256 00:07:53,320 --> 00:07:54,520 Wow, that is so smart. 257 00:07:54,520 --> 00:07:56,520 It's funny how something as ordinary as a bathtub 258 00:07:56,520 --> 00:07:58,840 can become such a valuable resource in an emergency. 259 00:07:58,840 --> 00:07:59,680 It really is. 260 00:07:59,680 --> 00:08:01,680 And along those same lines, another good tip 261 00:08:01,680 --> 00:08:04,800 is to freeze water in plastic jugs or freezer bags 262 00:08:04,800 --> 00:08:05,880 before the storm hits. 263 00:08:05,880 --> 00:08:06,960 Yeah, I've heard of that one. 264 00:08:06,960 --> 00:08:09,080 Is that just for having extra drinking water on hand? 265 00:08:09,080 --> 00:08:09,920 Well, that's part of it, 266 00:08:09,920 --> 00:08:12,160 but it also helps keep your refrigerator colder 267 00:08:12,160 --> 00:08:13,600 for longer if you lose power. 268 00:08:13,600 --> 00:08:14,440 Oh, right. 269 00:08:14,440 --> 00:08:15,280 So those frozen jugs, 270 00:08:15,280 --> 00:08:17,480 they act like giant ice packs, 271 00:08:17,480 --> 00:08:19,280 which can be a real lifesaver 272 00:08:19,280 --> 00:08:21,320 when it comes to preventing food from spoiling. 273 00:08:21,320 --> 00:08:22,160 Well, that's a good point. 274 00:08:22,160 --> 00:08:23,600 I never thought about it that way. 275 00:08:23,600 --> 00:08:26,480 So we've got our bathtub full, our freezer packed with ice. 276 00:08:26,480 --> 00:08:29,240 What other unexpected hurricane prep wisdom can you share? 277 00:08:29,240 --> 00:08:31,320 One that often gets overlooked is fuel. 278 00:08:31,320 --> 00:08:33,480 Make sure your car has a full tank of gas 279 00:08:33,480 --> 00:08:35,440 well before a storm is predicted. 280 00:08:35,440 --> 00:08:36,280 You know, gas stations, 281 00:08:36,280 --> 00:08:38,600 they might close or run out of fuel very quickly 282 00:08:38,600 --> 00:08:40,040 during an emergency, 283 00:08:40,040 --> 00:08:42,440 and you don't want to be stranded with an empty tank 284 00:08:42,440 --> 00:08:43,720 if you need to evacuate 285 00:08:43,720 --> 00:08:45,680 or for emergencies in your area. 286 00:08:45,680 --> 00:08:47,320 Oh, that's such a good reminder. 287 00:08:47,320 --> 00:08:50,560 It's easy to focus on stocking up on food and water, 288 00:08:50,560 --> 00:08:52,400 but we need to be able to get around too. 289 00:08:52,400 --> 00:08:53,240 For sure. 290 00:08:53,240 --> 00:08:54,080 Speaking of getting around, 291 00:08:54,080 --> 00:08:55,560 what about communication? 292 00:08:55,560 --> 00:08:57,400 How do we stay in touch with loved ones 293 00:08:57,400 --> 00:08:58,720 if cell service goes down? 294 00:08:58,720 --> 00:09:01,280 That's where a good old fashioned weather radio comes in. 295 00:09:01,280 --> 00:09:02,800 It's a really reliable way 296 00:09:02,800 --> 00:09:05,400 to get those emergency broadcasts and weather updates 297 00:09:05,400 --> 00:09:07,920 even when the power is out and cell powers are down. 298 00:09:07,920 --> 00:09:08,760 A weather radio? 299 00:09:08,760 --> 00:09:10,920 I feel like I haven't seen one of those since I was a kid. 300 00:09:10,920 --> 00:09:12,360 I know they're making a comeback though, 301 00:09:12,360 --> 00:09:13,320 and for good reason. 302 00:09:13,320 --> 00:09:15,560 They're a lifesaver in emergency situations. 303 00:09:15,560 --> 00:09:18,280 Definitely need to add dust off the old weather radio 304 00:09:18,280 --> 00:09:19,600 to my to-do list. 305 00:09:19,600 --> 00:09:20,520 You know, we've talked a lot about 306 00:09:20,520 --> 00:09:21,680 the practical side of things, 307 00:09:21,680 --> 00:09:24,160 but what about the mental and emotional aspects 308 00:09:24,160 --> 00:09:25,160 of facing a hurricane? 309 00:09:25,160 --> 00:09:26,400 It's gotta be pretty stressful. 310 00:09:26,400 --> 00:09:27,240 Absolutely. 311 00:09:27,240 --> 00:09:29,720 Hurricanes are powerful forces of nature. 312 00:09:29,720 --> 00:09:33,040 It's completely normal to feel anxious or overwhelmed. 313 00:09:33,040 --> 00:09:35,800 One of the best ways to cope with that stress, honestly, 314 00:09:35,800 --> 00:09:37,000 is to be prepared, 315 00:09:37,000 --> 00:09:39,360 knowing you've taken those steps to protect yourself 316 00:09:39,360 --> 00:09:41,640 and your loved ones can give you a sense of control 317 00:09:41,640 --> 00:09:43,640 and really help reduce anxiety. 318 00:09:43,640 --> 00:09:45,760 So being prepared isn't just about physical safety. 319 00:09:45,760 --> 00:09:48,240 It's about mental and emotional well-being too. 320 00:09:48,240 --> 00:09:49,320 It's all connected. 321 00:09:49,320 --> 00:09:51,360 Are there any other emotional preparedness tips 322 00:09:51,360 --> 00:09:52,360 you can share? 323 00:09:52,360 --> 00:09:53,840 You know, one thing I've learned over the years 324 00:09:53,840 --> 00:09:55,680 is the power of perspective. 325 00:09:55,680 --> 00:09:57,720 As scary as hurricanes can be, 326 00:09:57,720 --> 00:10:00,360 it's important to remember that they're temporary events. 327 00:10:00,360 --> 00:10:01,200 Right. 328 00:10:01,200 --> 00:10:03,480 The storm will pass, the sun will come out again. 329 00:10:03,480 --> 00:10:05,920 Focusing on that knowledge can help us stay hopeful 330 00:10:05,920 --> 00:10:07,760 and resilient during those tough times. 331 00:10:07,760 --> 00:10:09,840 I love that focusing on the light at the end of the tunnel. 332 00:10:09,840 --> 00:10:11,520 It's a good reminder that even in the midst 333 00:10:11,520 --> 00:10:14,160 of a storm, there's always hope for a brighter tomorrow. 334 00:10:14,160 --> 00:10:15,760 So we've covered practical prep, 335 00:10:15,760 --> 00:10:17,840 mental and emotional preparedness. 336 00:10:17,840 --> 00:10:19,960 Is there anything else we should be thinking about 337 00:10:19,960 --> 00:10:22,000 as we gear up for hurricane season? 338 00:10:22,000 --> 00:10:23,640 One final thought I'd like to leave you with 339 00:10:23,640 --> 00:10:26,400 is the importance of community hurricanes 340 00:10:26,400 --> 00:10:28,440 can bring out the best in people, 341 00:10:28,440 --> 00:10:31,080 fostering a sense of unity and support. 342 00:10:31,080 --> 00:10:32,320 So check on your neighbors, 343 00:10:32,320 --> 00:10:34,000 especially those who might be elderly 344 00:10:34,000 --> 00:10:35,640 or have special needs, 345 00:10:35,640 --> 00:10:37,120 offer help where you can remember 346 00:10:37,120 --> 00:10:38,680 we're all in this together. 347 00:10:38,680 --> 00:10:39,920 Such an important point. 348 00:10:39,920 --> 00:10:41,360 When we come together as a community, 349 00:10:41,360 --> 00:10:44,600 we're stronger and more resilient in the face of adversity. 350 00:10:44,600 --> 00:10:46,440 We've covered so much in part two 351 00:10:46,440 --> 00:10:48,400 of our hurricane preparedness special. 352 00:10:48,400 --> 00:10:50,640 From those practical tips like filling bathtubs 353 00:10:50,640 --> 00:10:52,960 and freezing water, to the importance of mental 354 00:10:52,960 --> 00:10:55,520 and emotional wellbeing and supporting our communities. 355 00:10:55,520 --> 00:10:56,360 Absolutely. 356 00:10:56,360 --> 00:10:59,040 I feel so much more prepared and informed already. 357 00:10:59,040 --> 00:11:00,680 All right, welcome back to Meteorology Matters 358 00:11:00,680 --> 00:11:03,080 for the final part of our hurricane preparedness special. 359 00:11:03,080 --> 00:11:04,960 We've covered so much ground already. 360 00:11:04,960 --> 00:11:07,480 Everything from the upcoming hurricane season forecast 361 00:11:07,480 --> 00:11:09,240 to all those crucial preparation steps 362 00:11:09,240 --> 00:11:10,680 and even some unexpected tips 363 00:11:10,680 --> 00:11:12,920 like filling your bathtub and freezing those water jugs. 364 00:11:12,920 --> 00:11:14,320 Yeah, it's been a lot. 365 00:11:14,320 --> 00:11:16,040 But now it's time to tackle some of your questions. 366 00:11:16,040 --> 00:11:18,080 We receive so many good ones from our listeners 367 00:11:18,080 --> 00:11:20,080 and I'm excited to dive in and share some insights. 368 00:11:20,080 --> 00:11:20,920 Me too. 369 00:11:20,920 --> 00:11:23,000 It's always so helpful to hear what's on everyone's minds. 370 00:11:23,000 --> 00:11:23,840 All right, let's get started. 371 00:11:23,840 --> 00:11:26,520 The first question comes from Sarah in Tampa, Florida. 372 00:11:26,520 --> 00:11:29,880 She writes, my family and I live in an evacuation zone 373 00:11:29,880 --> 00:11:32,200 but we have two large dogs evacuating with them 374 00:11:32,200 --> 00:11:33,720 seems so overwhelming. 375 00:11:33,720 --> 00:11:34,840 Any advice? 376 00:11:34,840 --> 00:11:36,080 Oh, that's a great question, Sarah. 377 00:11:36,080 --> 00:11:38,720 And you are definitely not alone in feeling that way. 378 00:11:38,720 --> 00:11:40,720 Evacuating with pets can definitely add 379 00:11:40,720 --> 00:11:41,880 another layer of complexity, 380 00:11:41,880 --> 00:11:45,160 but it's absolutely essential to include them in your plan. 381 00:11:45,160 --> 00:11:46,000 Absolutely. 382 00:11:46,000 --> 00:11:48,720 So first and foremost, make sure your pets are microchipped 383 00:11:48,720 --> 00:11:51,440 and wearing collars with updated ID tags, 384 00:11:51,440 --> 00:11:52,560 just in case you get separated 385 00:11:52,560 --> 00:11:53,960 during the evacuation process. 386 00:11:53,960 --> 00:11:54,800 Right. 387 00:11:54,800 --> 00:11:55,640 And then do some research 388 00:11:55,640 --> 00:11:58,160 and find pet-friendly hotels or shelters 389 00:11:58,160 --> 00:11:59,840 along your evacuation route. 390 00:11:59,840 --> 00:12:02,160 You know, a lot of emergency shelters don't allow pets 391 00:12:02,160 --> 00:12:04,520 so it's crucial to have alternative options 392 00:12:04,520 --> 00:12:05,600 line up in advance. 393 00:12:05,600 --> 00:12:06,600 That's such a good point. 394 00:12:06,600 --> 00:12:08,400 Finding those pet-friendly accommodations 395 00:12:08,400 --> 00:12:09,720 ahead of time is key. 396 00:12:09,720 --> 00:12:11,800 Now, what about packing for our furry friends? 397 00:12:11,800 --> 00:12:14,200 What are some must-haves for their Hurricane Go bag? 398 00:12:14,200 --> 00:12:16,360 Oh, just like us, pets need their essentials too. 399 00:12:16,360 --> 00:12:19,240 So pack at least a week's worth of food and water balls, 400 00:12:19,240 --> 00:12:21,760 medications and copies of their vaccination records. 401 00:12:21,760 --> 00:12:22,600 Okay. 402 00:12:22,600 --> 00:12:25,000 It's also a good idea to pack any comfort items 403 00:12:25,000 --> 00:12:27,240 like a favorite toy or a blanket 404 00:12:27,240 --> 00:12:30,160 that might help reduce their stress during the evacuation. 405 00:12:30,160 --> 00:12:33,240 And of course, don't forget waste bags for easy cleanup. 406 00:12:33,240 --> 00:12:34,280 All great tips. 407 00:12:34,280 --> 00:12:36,000 A well-stocked pet emergency kit 408 00:12:36,000 --> 00:12:37,880 can really make the evacuation process 409 00:12:37,880 --> 00:12:40,280 less stressful for everyone involved. 410 00:12:40,280 --> 00:12:42,120 Okay, our next question comes from John 411 00:12:42,120 --> 00:12:43,440 in Charleston, South Carolina. 412 00:12:43,440 --> 00:12:44,280 He asks, 413 00:12:44,280 --> 00:12:46,720 I live in a historic home that isn't as wind-resistant 414 00:12:46,720 --> 00:12:47,960 as newer buildings. 415 00:12:47,960 --> 00:12:50,840 What extra precautions should I take to protect my property? 416 00:12:50,840 --> 00:12:52,320 That's a really important question, John, 417 00:12:52,320 --> 00:12:54,160 especially for those living in older homes 418 00:12:54,160 --> 00:12:55,640 that maybe weren't built to withstand 419 00:12:55,640 --> 00:12:57,720 today's Hurricane Force winds. 420 00:12:57,720 --> 00:12:59,240 So if your home has storm shutters, 421 00:12:59,240 --> 00:13:00,720 make sure they're in good working order 422 00:13:00,720 --> 00:13:03,040 and that you know how to install them properly. 423 00:13:03,040 --> 00:13:04,240 And if you don't have shutters, 424 00:13:04,240 --> 00:13:06,680 you might consider boarding up your windows with plywood. 425 00:13:06,680 --> 00:13:08,960 Just make sure it's a snug fit to prevent shattering. 426 00:13:08,960 --> 00:13:10,000 Good idea. 427 00:13:10,000 --> 00:13:12,320 Also, trimming any dead or weak branches 428 00:13:12,320 --> 00:13:13,560 from trees near your house. 429 00:13:13,560 --> 00:13:15,120 That's a good preventative measure 430 00:13:15,120 --> 00:13:17,000 to reduce the risk of them falling 431 00:13:17,000 --> 00:13:18,600 and causing damage during a storm. 432 00:13:18,600 --> 00:13:20,840 Yeah, trimming trees and reinforcing those windows, 433 00:13:20,840 --> 00:13:21,960 those are great tips. 434 00:13:21,960 --> 00:13:23,200 It's amazing how much damage 435 00:13:23,200 --> 00:13:25,520 a single falling branch can cause. 436 00:13:25,520 --> 00:13:26,360 You're telling me. 437 00:13:26,360 --> 00:13:28,000 Okay, and our final question comes 438 00:13:28,000 --> 00:13:29,720 from Maria in Miami, Florida. 439 00:13:29,720 --> 00:13:30,560 She writes, 440 00:13:30,560 --> 00:13:31,440 we're new to Florida 441 00:13:31,440 --> 00:13:33,480 and have never experienced a hurricane before. 442 00:13:33,480 --> 00:13:35,920 What advice do you have for first-timers? 443 00:13:35,920 --> 00:13:37,040 Welcome to Florida, Maria. 444 00:13:37,040 --> 00:13:38,040 It's great to have you here, 445 00:13:38,040 --> 00:13:40,040 but definitely important to be prepared 446 00:13:40,040 --> 00:13:42,640 for hurricane season, especially as a newcomer. 447 00:13:42,640 --> 00:13:43,560 I agree. 448 00:13:43,560 --> 00:13:45,680 My biggest piece of advice for first-timers 449 00:13:45,680 --> 00:13:48,440 is to take those hurricane warnings seriously. 450 00:13:48,440 --> 00:13:50,600 When officials issue an evacuation order, 451 00:13:50,600 --> 00:13:53,960 don't hesitate, leave early, and head to a safe location. 452 00:13:53,960 --> 00:13:55,880 Yeah, it's always better to err on the side of caution. 453 00:13:55,880 --> 00:13:56,720 For sure. 454 00:13:56,720 --> 00:13:58,680 And Maria, remember all those tips we've discussed today. 455 00:13:58,680 --> 00:13:59,880 Get that insurance in order, 456 00:13:59,880 --> 00:14:02,560 create an evacuation plan, pack a disaster kit, 457 00:14:02,560 --> 00:14:04,800 stay informed, and don't be afraid to reach out 458 00:14:04,800 --> 00:14:05,920 to your neighbors for support. 459 00:14:05,920 --> 00:14:07,160 They've probably been through this before 460 00:14:07,160 --> 00:14:08,320 and can offer some great advice. 461 00:14:08,320 --> 00:14:09,840 Yeah, we're all in this together, right? 462 00:14:09,840 --> 00:14:11,920 By supporting each other and sharing information, 463 00:14:11,920 --> 00:14:13,440 we can create a much more resilient 464 00:14:13,440 --> 00:14:15,040 and prepared community. 465 00:14:15,040 --> 00:14:16,160 Couldn't have said it better myself. 466 00:14:16,160 --> 00:14:18,880 Well, that wraps up our hurricane preparedness Q&A, 467 00:14:18,880 --> 00:14:21,960 and it brings our meteorology matters special to a close. 468 00:14:21,960 --> 00:14:23,640 We covered a ton of information today 469 00:14:23,640 --> 00:14:26,080 from understanding hurricane forecasts 470 00:14:26,080 --> 00:14:28,240 and those essential preparation steps 471 00:14:28,240 --> 00:14:29,480 to those little extra tips 472 00:14:29,480 --> 00:14:30,680 that can make a world of difference. 473 00:14:30,680 --> 00:14:31,520 It's been great. 474 00:14:31,520 --> 00:14:33,760 Remember, hurricane season might seem far off, 475 00:14:33,760 --> 00:14:35,640 but a little preparation now can go a long way 476 00:14:35,640 --> 00:14:37,160 in ensuring your safety and peace of mind. 477 00:14:37,160 --> 00:14:38,160 Absolutely. 478 00:14:38,160 --> 00:14:39,880 And don't forget, you can follow meteorologist 479 00:14:39,880 --> 00:14:42,240 Rob Jones on Instagram, meteorologist 480 00:14:42,240 --> 00:14:43,920 on TikTok, TV meteorologist, 481 00:14:43,920 --> 00:14:45,880 and on YouTube, follow Rob Jones' hurricane. 482 00:14:45,880 --> 00:14:48,240 He's an amazing resource for staying up to date 483 00:14:48,240 --> 00:14:49,760 on all things hurricane related. 484 00:14:49,760 --> 00:14:50,600 Yeah, he's great. 485 00:14:50,600 --> 00:14:51,960 Stay safe, stay prepared, 486 00:14:51,960 --> 00:15:04,280 and we'll see you next time on meteorology matters.