Living in Coastal Virginia comes with perks galore, including long, sunny summers spent along the water, four beautiful seasons, coastal breezes and generally warmer temperatures than our neighbors to the north. It also means living near the water, and each August and September, that includes preparing for Hurricane Season.
While our city may not land inside the cone of uncertainty anytime this season, it’s important to be prepared, in case extreme weather occurs. If authorities do suspect a direct threat from a hurricane or impending tropical storm, you’ll want to be ready to keep yourself, your loved ones, pets and belongings comfortable and cared for.
Our management team is always developing new ways to become our most prepared, to help support you and all of our residents in staying comfortable and secure during even the worst possible weather conditions.
Here is a checklist to help you prepare for whatever weather may blow our way this season:
- Secure loose patio furniture and clear items from your patio or balcony.
- Make sure to stock medications, flashlights, batteries, battery-powered radio, phone charger, bottled water, can opener and the bare essentials should you lose power. Plan to stock up on enough to last you for three days. Remember your pets and their daily needs, as well. If you do lose power, avoid flushing toilets and running water (this is where the bottled water will come in handy!).
- Make sure your gas tank is full and in good working condition. Stock your car with emergency essentials and a change of clothes.
- Plan a communication plan with friends and family to stay connected should power go out or phone lines go down. Charge up all phones and batteries before the storm arrives.
- Store important documents in a safe place.
- Stay indoors and away from windows unless advised to evacuate.
- Know your evacuation zone. If ordered to evacuate, know your route and have a plan. Make sure you have clear directions and can safely get to a place to stay to wait out the storm. Never leave your pets behind when you evacuate. Their safety is important, too!
- Never walk, swim or drive through flooded water or large puddles.
- Listen for instructions from authorities and do not attempt to go home or leave your home unless advised to do so safely. Stay away from electrical equipment and flood waters, when you do.