Heavy rain and flooding can strike unexpectedly, cutting off roads and leaving you stranded at home. Preparing ahead of time with essential supplies can make a huge difference in ensuring your safety and comfort. If you live in a flood-prone area or are experiencing heavy rain with road closures, here are the key items you should have at home to weather the storm.
1. Emergency Water Supply
Floods can contaminate water supplies, so it’s crucial to have a clean drinking water reserve. Store at least one gallon of water per person per day for a minimum of three days. If possible, fill up bathtubs and large containers with water for sanitation purposes.
2. Non-Perishable Food
Power outages and impassable roads can prevent access to fresh food. Stock up on ready-to-eat, non-perishable food items such as:
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Canned goods (vegetables, beans, meats, soups)
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Granola bars and protein bars
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Dried fruits and nuts
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Peanut butter
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Crackers and cereals
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Baby food and formula if needed Make sure to have a manual can opener if you’re storing canned food.
3. Flashlights and Batteries
Floods often cause power outages, so reliable battery-powered or rechargeable flashlights and lanterns are essential. Keep extra batteries on hand and consider solar-powered or hand-crank options.
4. First Aid Kit
A well-stocked first aid kit can be a lifesaver. Include:
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Bandages and antiseptic wipes
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Pain relievers (acetaminophen or ibuprofen)
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Prescription medications (at least a week’s supply)
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Medical gloves
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Tweezers and scissors
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Allergy medication (antihistamines)
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Thermometer
5. Emergency Power Sources
Keep your cell phones and electronic devices charged as long as power is available. Have portable power banks or solar chargers ready. If possible, invest in a backup generator for extended power outages.
6. Hygiene and Sanitation Supplies
Floodwaters can carry contaminants, so maintaining hygiene is important. Stock up on:
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Hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes
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Toilet paper and paper towels
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Garbage bags for waste disposal
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Feminine hygiene products
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Soap and shampoo
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Baby wipes if needed
7. Important Documents and Cash
Keep important documents (IDs, insurance policies, medical records, bank details) in a waterproof container or bag. Having some cash on hand is useful in case ATMs and card payments are unavailable.
8. Warm Clothing and Blankets
Flooding and storms can bring chilly conditions. Keep extra:
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Warm clothing and socks
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Waterproof boots and rain gear
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Blankets and sleeping bags
9. Emergency Radio
A battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA weather radio will help you stay informed about emergency alerts, road closures, and rescue operations if power and internet are down.
10. Essential Tools and Supplies
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A multi-tool or Swiss army knife
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Plastic sheeting and duct tape for waterproofing
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Sandbags if you’re expecting water intrusion
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A whistle for signaling if you need help
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Waterproof matches or lighters
11. Pet Supplies (If Applicable)
If you have pets, ensure you have:
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Extra pet food and water
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A leash or carrier
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Any necessary medications
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Waste disposal bags
12. Evacuation Bag (Go-Bag)
Even if you’re sheltering at home, it’s wise to have an evacuation bag ready in case you need to leave suddenly. Include essential clothing, documents, medication, and a few days’ worth of supplies.
Final Tips
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Stay informed with weather alerts and local emergency broadcasts.
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Avoid wading through floodwaters due to contamination and hidden dangers.
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Ensure gas tanks are full in case evacuation is required.
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Keep family emergency contacts handy and have a communication plan in place.
Flooding can be unpredictable, but with proper preparation, you can stay safe and comfortable until conditions improve. Stay vigilant and prioritize safety!
