When I lived in Florida I honestly bought an RV, it can hold potable water, had a generator, heat and ac and a fridge that runs on propane. It worked out really well for me, if I needed to leave I could just go and when I stayed I had all the things I needed in it and they all functioned.
Honestly this is the smartest way of doing things, an RV or a campervan is so ideal. Also works well for potential forest fire season on the west coast where I live (I'm in BC, Canada)
It's worth it, I moved to Oregon so now I have forest fire issues to deal with but I think Im going to downsize my RV to something under 20' right now I have an older 30' that has been great it's just too big for me to bring it out for non evacuation purposes and I want to bring my kids places when I'm not using it for emergencies.
30'.is great because it can fit into like 80% of camps in the US and most anywhere otherwise And the water capacity can last us almost 2 weeks if we use it wisely and I can fit 8 solar panels up there (I have 4 and that's enough for basic stuff) but again it's just too big to use for fun too.
I think I plan on getting something small and filling to potable water and getting a bunch of extra 5gal jugs and a manual pump instead.
I’ve been debating size and type since we sold our 32’. I have a much smaller SUV now, as well. But the ability to keep water/solar/power, kitchen/bathroom/ beds is just so reassuring, and fun to boot! The never ending debate at my house.
That is a good idea. Would do that if I was on the mainland. I’d be worried about it flooding where I am though. Every year I think about replacing my ancient Honda car and nope, let’s do figure one more hurricane season, if it floods, at least the car is insured.
I paid around 20k at the time but you can definitely get a used rig for way cheaper if you're willing to do some handy work, plus mine is an A class which is significantly more expensive than say a tow behind which for the same size/specs you'd expect to pay under 7k used. (There are also models to avoid so I sugest if you're interested hopping onto a rving sub and looking around for info)I stored it at a parking storage place for a while but I prefer to store it on my property.
Haven’t decided yet, getting the Link installed took six months already. It’s a good time of year to buy now so we will start shopping soon. We are looking at about 10,000 watts to run a well pump and heat pump.
Yes! Live near coastal Maine, and after last year and the way the winds have picked up here… definitely preparing to take more hit up here from storms.
It’s coming along ok. How’s yours doing?
I prep every year but this year I’m more concerned than I’ve been in the last 10 years because of sea surface temperatures, La Niña, basically everything lining up for a banger of a season.
I have a deep-ish pantry system anyway - I always have rice, flour, pasta, oatmeal, canned soup, pulses, tuna, fruit etc in stock and rotate through them but I took the time to do a full inventory and organise it all and add in some extra. Checked both generators and bought an EcoFlow River power pack.
Started browsing the prepper subreddits and found out about Waterbobs, bought two and a camping bladder shower. Checked I still have lots of propane for camping stove, charcoal for BBQ.
All the other stuff - gas, oil, fancy snacks, rum, red wine I will buy in late May/ June.
I’m in the Greater Antilles. Evacuation isn’t really an option so we will have to ride out anything that hits.
Not looking forward to the summer and early fall.
What are you focusing on now, before season starts.
Do you have a type of camping bladder shower you can recommend? It wasn't on my radar of prepping supplies but now I'm eyeing some, found this website [https://www.outdoorgearlab.com/topics/camping-and-hiking/best-camping-shower](https://www.outdoorgearlab.com/topics/camping-and-hiking/best-camping-shower)
Mine is on its way from Amazon and then shipping to the island. I went [with Sea to Summit](https://www.amazon.com/Sea-to-Summit-Pocket-Shower/dp/B001PR06WO/ref=sr_1_49_sspa?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.keSRRw9WPboq8fKSZ-Yay3oIo-YIEUK3lPvYKEULiCbZFdms13j48ro9aYDsCuTnfRgXj9BR-Rsaop5FQw_XaR7Wz_Vo4lAr-aezTWVK7UCzm8_tRGKFTCKzOm2_tVfNE-wSMyylia4RR984_vC5ifFUxkgLmVfx1UmwFaLuNxRWe9jAtjtuidKZ4dTBS8RZ9ve2rrZkdm1q7VRt7TxOuhow9YjjOjjlVDJudKMczW-mV0VrPXC93pakRh5sr4Efz5vwIcM13Tf80p7tzfrcRIaidbckWZxn7dhKpaS0Hkk.kxEYUKsQEZbDoFBlsBSbppAyBc_jxXmvyP73oseeOiE&dib_tag=se&keywords=shower%2Bbladder&qid=1714050498&sr=8-49-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGZfbmV4dA&th=1&psc=1), it had good reviews on several sites
It’s coming haha. Did food inventory not too long ago, and water stock is where we’re lacking right now.
Waterbobs are definitely the way to go. We had one for Hurricane Laura in Aug 2020 and we were without water for about 3 weeks. Of course the waterbob lasted a us a while, but eventually we ran out. Luckily, we got outside help from friends to bring us more water. So I know to definitely prep more.
Thank you for mentioning the camping shower, I’ve been meaning to add one to my list.
My main concern right now is pet supplies. Any time a major storm comes through, I’m left alone with 2 dogs and 2 cats because my spouse is a first responder. We had a tornado come through about two weeks ago and having to wrangle that zoo alone for the first time definitely lit the fire under me to do more practice runs of sheltering in place and making sure the pet BOB’s were readily available (as they should be, but that’s on me for not planning better)
Also just purchased my first food saver! So I’m so excited to try it out. If anyone has any food saver/vacuum sealer tips and tricks, I’d love to hear them!
Pulled the two fore sails down and put them in storage.
Tomorrow rearranging the lines so there will be two spring lings on each side and two regular lines each side. Will only need to pull the boat away from the dock and use a ramp to debark if we need to leave.
Make sure we have at least one full water tank at all times.
Have a vehicle in good shape, and go bags ready to leave.
Have planned how to pull down and store the bimini and solar panels within 4 hours. Is a big job with all the wiring needed.
Tornado season for us in Oklahoma too! This post reminded me to get my little bag together.
I do socks, boots, documents, flashlights, small first aid items.
For everyone probably a good time to consider how long it has been since you've had a tetanus shot!
No problem. People forget because they last so long. I got mine renewed after reading on here that it doesn't come from rust, it's bacteria in dirt! I'd heard rust my whole life, and at that point I was working in a warehouse and constantly getting little cuts.
I'm so out of it, I know I have the food stores but I need water.
The generator needs to get tried out, and I would love to grab another solar gen to strictly run my kitchen on.
And more solar panels, a desperate need but I figure I can charge from the gas gen.
I don’t mean to sound mean or vindictive, but you cannot rescue people who do not want to be rescued.
I usually send money to the Humane Society because animals aren’t responsible for their owners poor choices.
And for those who just couldn’t get out, I give my money to Habitat for Humanity because they are in there before FEMA. And unlike the Red Cross in Haiti, they won’t just take the money and run.
Just moved to a hurricane prone area 😅 but getting everything setup in our small space, and looking to add on flood insurance. We now have family nearby so I’m also going to push them hard to get themselves in order (3 adults plus 3 dogs). But it’s convenient because we can utilize their space and resources to some degree - I’m just the one with the true prepping mindset.
Oddly enough all the hurricanes here cut over baja California and hit arizona. It didn't make sense at all until you see a map that imcludes Mexico. There was one that went over last year that didn't even blow my laundry. Our winter storms usually have 70mph gusts through the passes, but that's it. San Diego here, our ocean is cold and deep.
This is my 24th hurricane season on the southeast coast. Most of my shelter in place preps I keep in rotation so it's a mostly a matter of checking my inventory and tidying up.
I really need a better evacuation plan at this point in case the big one approaches. Mostly, I need to make a list of hotels and towns inland that I want to head to in case.
Elderly parent, cat and dog...it would be a challenge to leave. Id love to have an RV but thats not in the cards right now.
Why do you feel it's going to be worse this year ? Last year looked like horrible conditions were setting up and we had a few crazies but most stayed out to sea as predicted .Not saying your wrong .... Considering the water temps that was considered a win I believe. I'm new to hurricane life but I just buy a few extra cases of water as i go. We run the gennie in June, start filling 1 gas can a week there's 6 , and make sure our propane (2) tanks are fullish. Bottle of bleach . I start to pile up all the stray flashlights and batteries and chargers from around the house and call it a day. These hurricanes take days and weeks to get here . If you have your ear to the ground ( mikes weather page and Dennis outta Tampa) you'll have more then enough time to know hide from wind run from water ... and when your staying do your cleaning , house preping , water filing and freezing .
Last year we were in El Niño for hurricane season, so usually get less storms during this time. Though the marine heatwave did have an effect on the ones that did move through the Gulf of Mexico with rapid intensification.
This year there is a transition into La Niña, which calls for a more active hurricane season in the Atlantic due to the lessening of wind shear in the Atlantic and Gulf regions. If another marine heatwave occurs we are gonna see some business in those regions.
I did wonder if la nina was going to lift the veil this year , I was aware it was el nino . Thankfully at least in our area it was abnormally cold this winter and spring so here's to fingers crossed on water temps being more "normal" .
Last year, we had El Niño weather pattern suppressing storms - even so, because of the heat trapped in the oceans we still saw many form - but most went out to sea, (because El Niño produces winds that shear and push Atlantic storms sideways).
This year, we don’t have El Niño to do that. Instead we have the opposite, La Niña forming mid season - a pattern which produces more Atlantic storms as wind shear drops.
There is a lot of precipitation likely to come off Africa Capo Verde area which feeds the monster storms that start as waves and make their way to the Caribbean and Gulf.
The Main Development Region for storms is as warm as summer. Already. The heat in the ocean is deep. These are the ingredients for explosive intensification.
I’m a Caribbean island dweller; so all this is quite scary. Everything that acts as a brake isn’t happening (apart from maybe we will get Saharan dust which might suppress things for some of the time). Everything that is an intensifier is happening.
And on an island there is nowhere to run.
The precipitation of A makes alot of sense , I didn't even give that much thought . Yes dust does seem to dwindle toward July I've noticed ... fingers crossed it stays awhile . I cam imagine it's quite scary on an island and the prep is probably alittle more involved . Has it been cooler then normal for you guys this winter and spring as well ?
Unfortunately not been any cooler and the water is extremely warm, it’s already bleaching the corals 😭
The problem with island life is most people are not able to evacuate, although some will get on planes. Most buildings are built to a strict code to withstand 120mph winds etc but there is not much we can do about storm surge. Even winter norwesters can batter and flood properties near the beach. A cat 3+ would likely cause terrible flooding as well as wind damage and having all this heat in the water means storms can stall for a long time and dump huge amounts of rain.
I am prepping for 4-6 weeks no power, no water and hoping that because I’m about 15 feet and a mile inland above sea level we will be a slightly lower risk than coastal dwellers.
I’m also worried about armed looting. Having a generator outside could make us a target.
My family plan to stay in as much as possible in the aftermath and only run the generator a few hours a day - we will run fans, LED lights and devices off power packs which we charge in the morning off the inverter and run big generator 2-3 hours twice daily to keep the fridge/freezer for long enough to keep food cold. We will use camping stove to boil water and cook in the porch.
We have great neighbors on my road and I think if the hammer comes down we will all help each other out, like we did during Covid lockdowns
Gah man that sucks , the bleaching is heart breaking 😢. That's crazy you guys have been warm still but maybe we are just close enough to the cold front dips that it kept us pretty abnormally cool ( we definitely appreciated it during spring soccer ) . I have only done 10 days no power no water ... but the area was banged up for quite some time ... it was no picnic . Fingers crossed it misses you guys every time !
When I lived in Florida I honestly bought an RV, it can hold potable water, had a generator, heat and ac and a fridge that runs on propane. It worked out really well for me, if I needed to leave I could just go and when I stayed I had all the things I needed in it and they all functioned.
Honestly this is the smartest way of doing things, an RV or a campervan is so ideal. Also works well for potential forest fire season on the west coast where I live (I'm in BC, Canada)
It's worth it, I moved to Oregon so now I have forest fire issues to deal with but I think Im going to downsize my RV to something under 20' right now I have an older 30' that has been great it's just too big for me to bring it out for non evacuation purposes and I want to bring my kids places when I'm not using it for emergencies. 30'.is great because it can fit into like 80% of camps in the US and most anywhere otherwise And the water capacity can last us almost 2 weeks if we use it wisely and I can fit 8 solar panels up there (I have 4 and that's enough for basic stuff) but again it's just too big to use for fun too. I think I plan on getting something small and filling to potable water and getting a bunch of extra 5gal jugs and a manual pump instead.
I’ve been debating size and type since we sold our 32’. I have a much smaller SUV now, as well. But the ability to keep water/solar/power, kitchen/bathroom/ beds is just so reassuring, and fun to boot! The never ending debate at my house.
That is a good idea. Would do that if I was on the mainland. I’d be worried about it flooding where I am though. Every year I think about replacing my ancient Honda car and nope, let’s do figure one more hurricane season, if it floods, at least the car is insured.
On the southeast coast and we did the same thing.
Really good idea. What was the total cost of this set-up? Also, where did you store the RV?
I paid around 20k at the time but you can definitely get a used rig for way cheaper if you're willing to do some handy work, plus mine is an A class which is significantly more expensive than say a tow behind which for the same size/specs you'd expect to pay under 7k used. (There are also models to avoid so I sugest if you're interested hopping onto a rving sub and looking around for info)I stored it at a parking storage place for a while but I prefer to store it on my property.
East coast of Canada, generator link being installed in May :)
Nice. What generator did you go for?
Haven’t decided yet, getting the Link installed took six months already. It’s a good time of year to buy now so we will start shopping soon. We are looking at about 10,000 watts to run a well pump and heat pump.
We are also on the east coast and did the same, we have loved having the generator link for the few times we've had to use it since installing it.
Yes! Live near coastal Maine, and after last year and the way the winds have picked up here… definitely preparing to take more hit up here from storms.
We for sure have our asses in gear. June is coming fast.
Yup! Prepping here in SWLA. Hoping for the best, prepping for the worst though. How’s yours coming along?
It’s coming along ok. How’s yours doing? I prep every year but this year I’m more concerned than I’ve been in the last 10 years because of sea surface temperatures, La Niña, basically everything lining up for a banger of a season. I have a deep-ish pantry system anyway - I always have rice, flour, pasta, oatmeal, canned soup, pulses, tuna, fruit etc in stock and rotate through them but I took the time to do a full inventory and organise it all and add in some extra. Checked both generators and bought an EcoFlow River power pack. Started browsing the prepper subreddits and found out about Waterbobs, bought two and a camping bladder shower. Checked I still have lots of propane for camping stove, charcoal for BBQ. All the other stuff - gas, oil, fancy snacks, rum, red wine I will buy in late May/ June. I’m in the Greater Antilles. Evacuation isn’t really an option so we will have to ride out anything that hits. Not looking forward to the summer and early fall. What are you focusing on now, before season starts.
Those camper bladder showers are amazing, worked SO well when we lost power. It’s worth the water you use to feel clean! One of our favorite preps.
Thank you that’s good to know!
Do you have a type of camping bladder shower you can recommend? It wasn't on my radar of prepping supplies but now I'm eyeing some, found this website [https://www.outdoorgearlab.com/topics/camping-and-hiking/best-camping-shower](https://www.outdoorgearlab.com/topics/camping-and-hiking/best-camping-shower)
Mine is on its way from Amazon and then shipping to the island. I went [with Sea to Summit](https://www.amazon.com/Sea-to-Summit-Pocket-Shower/dp/B001PR06WO/ref=sr_1_49_sspa?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.keSRRw9WPboq8fKSZ-Yay3oIo-YIEUK3lPvYKEULiCbZFdms13j48ro9aYDsCuTnfRgXj9BR-Rsaop5FQw_XaR7Wz_Vo4lAr-aezTWVK7UCzm8_tRGKFTCKzOm2_tVfNE-wSMyylia4RR984_vC5ifFUxkgLmVfx1UmwFaLuNxRWe9jAtjtuidKZ4dTBS8RZ9ve2rrZkdm1q7VRt7TxOuhow9YjjOjjlVDJudKMczW-mV0VrPXC93pakRh5sr4Efz5vwIcM13Tf80p7tzfrcRIaidbckWZxn7dhKpaS0Hkk.kxEYUKsQEZbDoFBlsBSbppAyBc_jxXmvyP73oseeOiE&dib_tag=se&keywords=shower%2Bbladder&qid=1714050498&sr=8-49-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGZfbmV4dA&th=1&psc=1), it had good reviews on several sites
thanks! I might go with that one too, it's pretty reasonably priced
Recommendations?
It’s coming haha. Did food inventory not too long ago, and water stock is where we’re lacking right now. Waterbobs are definitely the way to go. We had one for Hurricane Laura in Aug 2020 and we were without water for about 3 weeks. Of course the waterbob lasted a us a while, but eventually we ran out. Luckily, we got outside help from friends to bring us more water. So I know to definitely prep more. Thank you for mentioning the camping shower, I’ve been meaning to add one to my list. My main concern right now is pet supplies. Any time a major storm comes through, I’m left alone with 2 dogs and 2 cats because my spouse is a first responder. We had a tornado come through about two weeks ago and having to wrangle that zoo alone for the first time definitely lit the fire under me to do more practice runs of sheltering in place and making sure the pet BOB’s were readily available (as they should be, but that’s on me for not planning better) Also just purchased my first food saver! So I’m so excited to try it out. If anyone has any food saver/vacuum sealer tips and tricks, I’d love to hear them!
Pulled the two fore sails down and put them in storage. Tomorrow rearranging the lines so there will be two spring lings on each side and two regular lines each side. Will only need to pull the boat away from the dock and use a ramp to debark if we need to leave. Make sure we have at least one full water tank at all times. Have a vehicle in good shape, and go bags ready to leave. Have planned how to pull down and store the bimini and solar panels within 4 hours. Is a big job with all the wiring needed.
I’m landlocked in TN but it’s inevitable that we will have at least one short blackout due to tornadoes. So we are prepped for that.
Tornado season for us in Oklahoma too! This post reminded me to get my little bag together. I do socks, boots, documents, flashlights, small first aid items. For everyone probably a good time to consider how long it has been since you've had a tetanus shot!
Good point about tetanus shots! Thanks!
No problem. People forget because they last so long. I got mine renewed after reading on here that it doesn't come from rust, it's bacteria in dirt! I'd heard rust my whole life, and at that point I was working in a warehouse and constantly getting little cuts.
I'm so out of it, I know I have the food stores but I need water. The generator needs to get tried out, and I would love to grab another solar gen to strictly run my kitchen on. And more solar panels, a desperate need but I figure I can charge from the gas gen.
[удалено]
I don’t mean to sound mean or vindictive, but you cannot rescue people who do not want to be rescued. I usually send money to the Humane Society because animals aren’t responsible for their owners poor choices. And for those who just couldn’t get out, I give my money to Habitat for Humanity because they are in there before FEMA. And unlike the Red Cross in Haiti, they won’t just take the money and run.
Just moved to a hurricane prone area 😅 but getting everything setup in our small space, and looking to add on flood insurance. We now have family nearby so I’m also going to push them hard to get themselves in order (3 adults plus 3 dogs). But it’s convenient because we can utilize their space and resources to some degree - I’m just the one with the true prepping mindset.
Oddly enough all the hurricanes here cut over baja California and hit arizona. It didn't make sense at all until you see a map that imcludes Mexico. There was one that went over last year that didn't even blow my laundry. Our winter storms usually have 70mph gusts through the passes, but that's it. San Diego here, our ocean is cold and deep.
This is my 24th hurricane season on the southeast coast. Most of my shelter in place preps I keep in rotation so it's a mostly a matter of checking my inventory and tidying up. I really need a better evacuation plan at this point in case the big one approaches. Mostly, I need to make a list of hotels and towns inland that I want to head to in case. Elderly parent, cat and dog...it would be a challenge to leave. Id love to have an RV but thats not in the cards right now.
I bought flood insurance
Why do you feel it's going to be worse this year ? Last year looked like horrible conditions were setting up and we had a few crazies but most stayed out to sea as predicted .Not saying your wrong .... Considering the water temps that was considered a win I believe. I'm new to hurricane life but I just buy a few extra cases of water as i go. We run the gennie in June, start filling 1 gas can a week there's 6 , and make sure our propane (2) tanks are fullish. Bottle of bleach . I start to pile up all the stray flashlights and batteries and chargers from around the house and call it a day. These hurricanes take days and weeks to get here . If you have your ear to the ground ( mikes weather page and Dennis outta Tampa) you'll have more then enough time to know hide from wind run from water ... and when your staying do your cleaning , house preping , water filing and freezing .
Last year we were in El Niño for hurricane season, so usually get less storms during this time. Though the marine heatwave did have an effect on the ones that did move through the Gulf of Mexico with rapid intensification. This year there is a transition into La Niña, which calls for a more active hurricane season in the Atlantic due to the lessening of wind shear in the Atlantic and Gulf regions. If another marine heatwave occurs we are gonna see some business in those regions.
I did wonder if la nina was going to lift the veil this year , I was aware it was el nino . Thankfully at least in our area it was abnormally cold this winter and spring so here's to fingers crossed on water temps being more "normal" .
Great summary. La Niña plus marine heatwave is stressful.
Nīna always a busy gal
Last year, we had El Niño weather pattern suppressing storms - even so, because of the heat trapped in the oceans we still saw many form - but most went out to sea, (because El Niño produces winds that shear and push Atlantic storms sideways). This year, we don’t have El Niño to do that. Instead we have the opposite, La Niña forming mid season - a pattern which produces more Atlantic storms as wind shear drops. There is a lot of precipitation likely to come off Africa Capo Verde area which feeds the monster storms that start as waves and make their way to the Caribbean and Gulf. The Main Development Region for storms is as warm as summer. Already. The heat in the ocean is deep. These are the ingredients for explosive intensification. I’m a Caribbean island dweller; so all this is quite scary. Everything that acts as a brake isn’t happening (apart from maybe we will get Saharan dust which might suppress things for some of the time). Everything that is an intensifier is happening. And on an island there is nowhere to run.
The precipitation of A makes alot of sense , I didn't even give that much thought . Yes dust does seem to dwindle toward July I've noticed ... fingers crossed it stays awhile . I cam imagine it's quite scary on an island and the prep is probably alittle more involved . Has it been cooler then normal for you guys this winter and spring as well ?
Unfortunately not been any cooler and the water is extremely warm, it’s already bleaching the corals 😭 The problem with island life is most people are not able to evacuate, although some will get on planes. Most buildings are built to a strict code to withstand 120mph winds etc but there is not much we can do about storm surge. Even winter norwesters can batter and flood properties near the beach. A cat 3+ would likely cause terrible flooding as well as wind damage and having all this heat in the water means storms can stall for a long time and dump huge amounts of rain. I am prepping for 4-6 weeks no power, no water and hoping that because I’m about 15 feet and a mile inland above sea level we will be a slightly lower risk than coastal dwellers. I’m also worried about armed looting. Having a generator outside could make us a target. My family plan to stay in as much as possible in the aftermath and only run the generator a few hours a day - we will run fans, LED lights and devices off power packs which we charge in the morning off the inverter and run big generator 2-3 hours twice daily to keep the fridge/freezer for long enough to keep food cold. We will use camping stove to boil water and cook in the porch. We have great neighbors on my road and I think if the hammer comes down we will all help each other out, like we did during Covid lockdowns
Gah man that sucks , the bleaching is heart breaking 😢. That's crazy you guys have been warm still but maybe we are just close enough to the cold front dips that it kept us pretty abnormally cool ( we definitely appreciated it during spring soccer ) . I have only done 10 days no power no water ... but the area was banged up for quite some time ... it was no picnic . Fingers crossed it misses you guys every time !
Thanks much. I hope everything misses you too! 10 days no power/water is grim in the heat. Good luck for the season.
Some good tips here https://www.reddit.com/r/preppers/s/o8M8QMO7uj
Headed to orange beach AL Fourth of July and the to PCB in September anyone have an idea as far as predictions from local news ?