Over the years, I’ve written several times about hyperthermia, warning caregivers what to lookout for, and how to keep an older loved one safe from the extremes of hot weather. Preparation is very much a part of keeping one safe in extremely hot weather. And so too, it is with hurricanes.
It is important to remember that older adults can be more at risk both during and after a hurricane event occurs. If flooding occurs in their community, it may take a few days to reach them. Their electricity may have been out since the hurricane hit their area, with their home becoming hotter by the hour. A tree may have fallen on their house, and/or on them. These are just a few reasons why they should not be left alone to “hope for the best,” or “ride out the storm.”
None of us needs statistics to know we are seeing more extreme weather between June 1 – November 30, which is hurricane season in the Atlantic. (The Eastern Pacific season is May 15 – November 30). Still, The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reports there were fourteen Atlantic hurricanes in 2020, seven of which were “major,” (defined as a category three or higher). This compares to nine hurricanes in 2001, only four of which were “major.”
With this reality, how can we be prepared?
Hurricane risks can be reduced by having a plan in place. There is no shortage of information and guidance on how to prepare for such an event. Many national organizations have webpages devoted to planning for a hurricane. Two of them are:
https://www.weather.gov/safety/hurricane-plan
and
These sites are full of useful guides and lists. The important thing is to prepare a plan for your family, including your older loved ones who live with you, or do not live with you. You will be glad you did.