Hurricane Survival Tips and Party Music
Be Prepared For Hurricane Season
Hurricane Season is from June until November. With the tropical weather system quickly approaching many of us wonder what this season will bring.
There is no "tis the reason for this season." Hurricanes are dangerous and have proven to be deadly. Their forces are not something to reckon with. The storms prance through cities and towns, causing millions of dollars worth of damage. The severe weather causes havoc and inconvenience to many people.
I've survived many hurricanes. The most memorable season was in 2004 when Florida was hit by four named storms within a few weeks. The Sunshine State made national news which isn't uncommon - Florida is the most infamous state for making headline news. This time, the news was different, Mother Nature was in control.
2004 was a frantic time for many. Charley was catastrophic. He was followed by Frances which was the size of Texas. Then Ivan, which was very powerful. Tropical Storm Jeanne was the finale and she was just mean, even though she didn't reach Hurricane force winds. These storms not only affected Florida, but they caused catastrophic damage in other states and countries such as the Caribbean.
History of the Hurricane Cocktail
This fruit punch based drink is a popular cocktail in New Orleans. It was made famous by Pat O'Brien's bar in the 1940s.
The drink was created during World War II. Back then liquor such as whiskey was in low supply and bar owners were forced to order large amounts of rum in order to get their quota of whiskey.
Pat O'Brien's has become a tourist mecca, and the Pat O'Brien's Hurricane glass is one of the most sought-after souvenirs in New Orleans.
1 ounce lemon or lime juice
4 ounces dark rum
4 ounces passion fruit syrup
Crushed ice
Orange and/or lime slice
1 maraschino cherry
In a cocktail shaker add lemon juice, passion fruit syrup and crushed ice. Shake for 1-2 minutes. Place in glass with a garnish or orange, lime or cherry. Add a straw. Enjoy!
Don't Get Blindsided By The Hurricane
There is absolutely nothing funny about hurricanes. Being in the path of danger causes stress and tension for thousands of people. We all know that music has a tendency to lighten our mood. Majestic tunes help ease tension.
Even though an intense wonder of nature is approaching and might be knocking on your door why not relax a bit in the meanwhile?
I've included music videos in this article for your entertainment. Unless you lose power which is such a nuisance, you could enjoy these videos while:
- Preparing for the storm
- Waiting for the storm
- During the storm
- After the storm
- Or just when you are hanging out drinking some hurricanes and there is no storm
In the meanwhile I am offering some survival tips. You might already be aware of some of them. You might be a newcomer to a hurricane prone area. Either way it's always best to be safe than sorry.
Never underestimate the power of a monstrous storm. They are very unpredictable.
The only positive note is that hurricanes give us some warning to be prepared unlike a tornado or earthquake.
Jimmy Buffet - Trying To Reason With Hurricane Season
Scorpions - Rock You Like A Hurricane
Pitbull ft. Marc Anthony - Rain Over Me
Bruce Springsteen - Thunder Road
The Wanted (UK) - Lightning
Luke Bryan - Rain Is A Good Thing
Survivor - Eye Of The Tiger (or hurricane)
Hurricane Season Survival Tips:
- Don't panic! I understand that's easier said than done, but in the long run panicking serves no purpose. You need to be able to think straight and make the best decisions for yourself and your family.
- If you are told to evacuate...do so! Don't think you are invincible!
- Make extra ice before the storm arrives. I store ice cubes in large ziploc bags in the freezer. You could use them for drinks. Place cubes in smaller ziploc bags to use for bumps and bruises. The cubes will help keep your perishable foods colder longer.
- One gallon of water per person for 3-7 days. Water never expires so always have extra bottles on hand.
- Have non-perishable food and juices on hand. Pudding, applesauce, granola bars, pop-top fruit, peanut butter, jelly and bread are some options.
- A non-electric can opener is of utmost importance because chances are you won't have power.
- Baby wipes come in very handy for washing up. Store them in a cold area beforehand since cold wipes are very refreshing since chances are you will be hot with no air conditioning!
- Battery operated radios or TVs will be very important!
- Charge your laptops and phones while waiting for the storm.
- A landline phone is crucial because cell service during and after a storm is poor. Texting is more reliable since they tax the network less than voice calls.
- Fill your cars with fuel beforehand. Preferably days ahead. Lines for gas will be very long the day before a storm.
- Never siphon gasoline with your mouth unless you want to damage your lungs, esophagus and stomach. Use a store bought siphon.
- If you notice windows buckling quickly move away because the glass could burst from the pressure of the winds. I didn't know this as I watched the glass buckle, but luckily we were spared.
- Have trees trimmed before a storm hits. Limbs and branches cause unnecessary damage!
- Store any outdoor furniture and ornaments indoors. These objects become lethal weapons! Even a feeder band could pick up a grill and toss it around the neighborhood.
- Don't take videos or photos during a storm. You never know what mystery object is flying through the air while you are outdoors.
- Have extra blankets, pillows, flashlights, batteries, paper plates and utensils for everyone!
- Have extra cash on hand. You don't know how long power will be out and banks might be closed for awhile.
- Unscented bleach comes in handy for sanitizing items.
- First-aid kit should include: bandages, scissors, adhesive tape and gauze pads. Antiseptic spray, hydrocortisone cream, bug repellent, aspirin, rubbing alcohol, ointments for burns and cuts.
- Be sure and fill your prescription drugs days ahead of time.
- Have toys, books and games available for kids.
- A battery operated handheld fan would be very useful.
- Generators are very useful, but could be dangerous if not used properly. Proceed with caution. More accidents happened with generators after a storm then from a hurricane itself.
- Do NOT empty a pool. A storm could cause the pool to pop out. Lower the water level by one or two feet. Add extra chlorine to prevent impurities from contaminating the water. You never know what you might be able to use your pool water for after the storm.
- If possible park your cars in the garage. If you have an electric door opener, be sure you know how to manually open the door in case you lose power.
- Be prepared for after the storm and have your insurance numbers on hand.
- Make sure your children have emergency ID's just in case you get separated for one reason or another. Never take chances when it comes to children.
- This goes without saying, but you never know...be sure all pets that usually stay outdoors are brought indoors.
- Have a Hurricane Party before, during or after the storm. Drink some hurricane cocktails!
- Have a charcoal or gas grill available...cook the perishable food you have and share with your neighbors!
- Listen to the music videos I posted.
- Always remember that there will be sunshine after the storm passes. You will prevail.
Muse - Butterflies and Hurricanes
WFTV Weather, Orlando
- WFTV Channel 9 Weather, Orlando Weather, Central Florida Weather | www.wftv.com
Orlando Weather Forecast and Radar, Disney Forecast, Theme Park Forecast, Daytona Weather, Melbourne Weather, Cocoa Weather
Display of Hurricane Supplies at Publix Supermarket
National Hurricane Center
National Weather Channel
- National and Local Weather Forecast, Hurricane, Radar and Report
The Weather Channel and weather.com provide a national and local weather forecast for cities, as well as weather radar, report and hurricane coverage.
FEMA: Federal Emergency Management Agency
Bonus Video! Frankie Ballard - Sunshine & Whiskey
© 2012 Linda Bilyeu
Comments
Another fantastic hub Sunshine! I remember tasting a Hurricane drink in New Orleans years ago and I thought I'd been hit by one! Wow those are very strong and now I see why. I've only been in a hurricane when visiting Florida in August. This is a helpful hub packed with important information. Thanks for sharing. Voted up and SHared! Take care, Kelley
SUNSHINE after the storm--that's great!! Great tips, great videos, great hub. I don't live where hurricanes hit, but I know people who do. I'm kind of interested in trying the hurricane drink, too! Excellent job here.
In the Marines, stationed in the Far East, we would have typhoon parties.
I'll probably never know what a hurricane is like nor even the threat of one...but I see that as a GOOD thing. I have enough Sh** to worry about!!
GREAT videos.....thanks for the entertainment, GF. Don't blow away on me! and put ToTo in the house!! UP++
- Author
Hi Kelley, I was ready for a Hurricane w/straw after creating this hub! Thank you for the share. Much appreciated!:)
- Author
Vicki, I see you picked up on the sunshine! I'm glad you liked that! Thanks for stopping by. Your hurricane is in the mail. Ha!
- Author
Man from Modesto...Typhoon parties! Wow! You know what I'm talking about then with Hurricane Parties!:)
Living in Louisiana I know exactly what you mean. The waters in the Gulf are already in the eighties and our mild winter means an active season. And I hope for no disasters, but cant't wait for those typical hurricane parties. Entertaining hub.
- Author
Effer, Toto actually Foxy is always in the house. As is Cupcake and Amelia. Fairy Fish is now in fish heaven with the fairies. Oh my. Thanks for stopping by and making me more loco :)
- Author
Good luck in Louisiana Ryan! You have experienced your fair share of hurricanes. I wish you a peaceful hurricane season, but lots of parties!:)
Your hubs are awesome!! Rock you like a hurricane, now I have that song stuck to my head. Yummy hurricane cocktails: I like the sound of that! For us, one of the worst hurricanes was Andrew back in 1992. I remember we had change our front door soon after. It was devastating! These are great hurricane tips you have suggested and a must read for everyone. thanks for sharing
clever and well written piece - thank you
- Author
lovedoctor, Andrew was one mean storm who if I remember correctly flattened Homestead in south Florida. He had no shame. Thank you for sharing!!:)
- Author
Thank you kindly MHatter!:)
Clever hub!!! Oh those hurricanes in 2004 were a mess! I'm glad we haven't had too many big hurricanes like that recently. I hope hurricane season isn't too crazy this year! I like your list of survival tips! They were very useful! :)
A nice selection, but sadly, one I can't use here in Southern California due to a lack of hurricanes. Maybe you can do a hub on Forest Fire Party Videos? Voting this Up and Interesting.
A very nice hub. I remember that storm in 2004. I was actually delivering oxygen in Tampa during Hurricane Frances. What a crazy time. Thanks for the tips, I'll be prepared for this year's Hurricane season!
As we just experienced, Berle, this information will help us to be better prepared for the season. Love your music suggestions and great advice. Let's hope that we have a mild 2012 hurricane season. Voted up.
- Author
Stoker, 2004 was memorable. HUNKER DOWN!!! lol
I also hope we have a calm season. Another tropical storm like Beryl would be fine:)
- Author
Alocsin, Forest Fire Party Videos...I could already think of some good songs for that! We have many brush fires in FL. There are no warnings for those either. Thanks for bringing those to our attention. Wishing you a no-fire zone!!
- Author
Hi Bishop! Delivering oxygen during Frances. Wow, that msut have been stressful. Thank you for sharing!
Hi Teaches, Wishing us all a mild Hurricane Season! Beryl was generous with her rain which was nice. Thanks!
The song Thunder Rolls rocks (and rolls!). Good music selection for the ... er... hurricane season!
Oh Sunshine, having just left our "Condon w/the View" in N. Palm...We are ALWAYS checking the weather conditions, especially now that it's Hurricane Season. Thanks for all these Wonderful tips. Thinking of coming down in August...Anyway thanks for the Great Videos too!
- Author
Sing it Christy! I love that song! Garth Brooks is awesome! Thanks for stopping by!:)
- Author
b. Malin, FL misses you! Be sure and check the weather before you come down in August or else you might need to use these tips. We are about to have one of our afternoon FL storms...I bet you miss those! They are wonderful!:)
First of all, well done for surviving all those hurricanes and with such a positive view. I like the ideas and videos you have included to while away the hours waiting for the storm to pass. The cocktails alone make me want to look forward to hurricane season.:)
Very useful and interesting information. Awesome and all the votes.
- Author
Hi molometer, I've never had a hurricane cocktail, but after creating this hub and learning more about the drink I really want one! Thank you for your visit!:)
Yes Sunshine is really was. All I kept thinking about was how much of an idiot my boss was. I'm out working while he's at home...go figure. But, I forgave his stupidity and I'm sure that the patient was great full that I came to his aide.
- Author
Bishop, You did the right thing and luckily you are still around to share your story!:)
- Author
lovedoctor, Thank you for sharing your fun story! Cupcake is actually my granddaughter's bunny, but granny (me) is the one who takes care of her. I never thought I'd own a bunny, but I'm glad we do!:)
I have never experienced a hurricane,you must be very brave and strong, imagine four hurricanes. You have showcased excellent tips. Music can soothe and ease any pain.Great hub. Voted up and shared.
This is fantastic! The first year we lived in Daytona Beach, I was really stressed out about hurricanes. I wish this was around at that time. Wonderful information. Voted up and more and shared. :) Great hub, Sunshine! :)
Very nice suggestions...I agree with charging your laptop....it makes it easier to play online games like Words With Friends during the hurricane. Hard to believe that we are back in hurricane season. Enjoyed your musical selections as well....voted up and across the board.
- Author
Much appreciated Vellur! Sometimes you just don't have a choice, but to deal with it!:)
- Author
Thank you Terrye...I bet you miss the Florida afternoon storms. We are having one now. Thunder, lightning and rain. My dog is terrified and hiding under the bed. I'm smiling, I love my storms!:)
- Author
I'm still playing WWF Cogerson! I did take a short break, but my friends missed me and I couldn't let them down. They enjoy beating me also!:)
I really enjoyed this hub. I've been through a number of storms since I was a kid-it just comes from being a North Carolinian. But I'm always amazed at Yankee imports who feel like this is a real life edition of Survivor. I would also add as a tip to park your cars in a safe area so if low lying limbs come-they won't hit your car.
Also- I would suggest a playlist for hurricanes in case your cable is out as well as some old school books and games if your charge runs out. Great hub!
@ Alecia, I know what your saying about how other people who aren't used to having storms...they tend to freak out! It's kind of like how Floridan's wear coats in 60 degree weather and say how cold it is, when northerners are like "are you serious"
- Author
Great additions to the list Alecia! Thank you for adding them! I appreciate it.
Bishop...60* is FREEZING in Florida! 75* is cold to me! Ha! I survived 20 years of winters in NY and I prefer heat. 90* is my cuppa tea. Thank you for sharing also!
Lots of great tips here, Sunshine. You've obviously been through a few of them.
We lived in MS for 5 years and I hated hurricane season! I hated the waiting to see if one would develop. One year when my older son was about 4 or 5, we spent the night in a warehouse on base b/c of a hurricane (which ended up not being a very strong one, thank goodness).
We lived in Long Beach while we were there and it got wiped out by Hurricane Katrina. If we'd been living there when it hit, our house would have been totally destroyed. I couldn't even find the street on a Google map afterwards.
The smart people leave the area when they're told to. My husband grew up in Mobile, AL and says Hurricane Camille was one of the worst.
On the other hand, we got hit by Hurricane Gloria when we lived in Connecticut. I paced the floor; my husband and infant son napped.
Very timely hub. Voted up and useful.
Great hub here, Sunshine-and I loved the music selections. Thanks Danette for sharing this one! :) I was caught in Hurricane Irene! Slept outdoors in my car after the road became impassable-pretty scary! Wrote a hub about it when it was all over.
- Author
Hello Danette and Denise, You both have been through your share of hurricanes also. They are quite annoying, but we deal with them due t0 not having a choice. At this time we have Tropical Storm Debby who has been pestering Florida for the past 3 days and will continue for another couple of days. Winds are picking up now in Orlando. Mother Nature hard at work. Thanks for your comments!
Great Hub I like the music section of course.I am not fan of Hurricanes but who is!I love my sun with clear skies.:)
- Author
Ida, I bet you are glad Tropical Storm Debby the Downer is on it's way out of FL!:)
Yes, I am Linda sun peeked out around 6:30pm tonight!I was so happy to see sun I grab kids ran outside!I pulled out my fold up chair sat my face right in sun!While kids played chalk!It is
the little things we appreciate when we don't have it for couple
of days!:)
We don't get hurricanes over here Linda but I would be happy to have these as my wet, English weekend songs :o), yes it's not as dramatic as 'hurricane' party videos but they are good selections!
Voted up and shared.
I have never experienced a hurricane and I can only imagine the stress you all must feel when a hurricane is approaching and the fear when you have to endure one. All the tips gives a glimpse of what it must be like. Great videos too! I will try the Hurricane Cocktail! Voted up, interesting
Tina
As fairly new residents to the North Carolina coastal area, I've had a couple of hurricane threats, but, so far no major hits. We do live in a area that is often evacuated, and I agree with you - if you're told to get out, do it! The combination of powerful winds and water is nothing to mess with! Great ideas for hurricane music - the waiting time can be tense.
One thing I would add to your hurricane preparation list is to prepare a box of important documents and phone numbers to take with you in case of evacuation. Of course, in the electronic age, most of this will be on your laptop.
Now how do you make a hurricane? :)
- Author
Ida, Sunshine is the best especially when you get to play with chalk!:)
- Author
Hey Jools, Feel free to come back and visit these videos during one of your many rain storms!:)
Hi Tina, Hurricanes are very stressful times and they do leave behind a lot of destruction...luckily we have been spared the last couple of years. Let me know how you enjoy your hurricane cocktail.
Thank you both for stopping by!
- Author
Hi Steph! I agree if told to evacuate just do it! Thanks for adding your terrific tip about protecting documents and photos too! Wishing you a hurricane free season.
The awesome power of nature in the form of hurricanes must be some sight to behold and to endure. Only you can combine practical survival tips with a Pitbull/Marc Anthony video. Kewl!
I hope there are no hurricanes around in 3 weeks!
- Author
Hey Docmo! Wouldn't you expect Pitbull and Marc Anthony in a hurricane video?:) I hope there will be no hurricanes when you visit!! So far, so good! Thanks for your comment!
Trust you to see a hurricane so positively, Linda!! The tips will be a useful lesson for many!! Am sharing this...and thanks for the PARTY!
- Author
Hi Michelle, Hurricanes are something we have no control over, so might as well look on the bright side. Kinda. Hopefully Isaac won't be too brutal.
Watching the weather closely to see if we're going to get hit by one of these hurricanes in NC...gotta get the ingredients for the Hurricane Cocktail so we're well prepared! Timely and tweeted!
Love your comment, Stephanie. I'm also gravely aware of the upcoming season, Sunshine, and have thought about writing a hub re: preparation, but heck...I think this covers it all and then some. Hurricane cocktail sounds wonderful to sip while watching the weather pass, LOL
Actually, it is not a funny matter. I think I have a bit of PTSD from being stuck out in my car during Hurricane Irene last year, and praying nothing would crash down on me!
Fun hub to reread and pass along. :)
- Author
Hi Steph! Absolutely, the ingredients for the Hurricane are important!:)
- Author
Hi Denise, We are halfway through the season and so far so good. Tropical Storm Isaac is expected to become a hurricane, hopefully he will fizzle out. I understand about your PTSD. I sympathize with you. In 2008 when Florida had 4 hurricanes in two months the entire state was in a state of shock. Thank you for your comment.
Great Hub Sunshine, useful AND fun! Enjoying the videos!
- Author
Thanks Pete! I'm glad you enjoyed the music!
Well, Sunshine...we had a close call didn't we??? Here where I live, we just have a lot of rain and a little wind. I hope those people in New Orleans don't get hit too hard.
Great Hub, I voted it up, etc. and will share.
Super hubs with some suggestions I had not thought about like storing ice and emergency IDs for kids. And the music videos were a fun!
Another near miss hear in Florida. Us in the Tampa Bay area seem to have pretty good fortune with hurricanes anyway. I have lived here for 16 years and only experienced a couple of tropical storms.
Very nicely done. Love the music and the drink, but can forgo the traffic nightmare and stress involved!
Don't forget to research your evacuation route! Sometimes highways are reversed so that all traffic is flowing away from the coast.
Plan an escape route and always let your family know you are safe!
Never forget the New Jersey mayor, "Get the Hell off the coast during a hurricane!" What may seem like great surfing waves and fun can be deadly!
Great advice. Very timely also considering recent storms!
- Author
Mary615 ~ FreezeFrame34 ~ Jenbeach21 ~ Thundermama ~ Lucid Dreams ... Thank you all for your comments, suggestions and thoughts!
When my parents lived in McAllen, Texas (about 70 miles inland from the Gulf) and after all hurricane precautions were taken they often had hurricane parties with their friends. May as well relax and enjoy the AC before it goes out which often happens. :)
I inherited my parents big chest freezer. What we do prior to and all during hurricane season is to fill empty milk jugs with water and freeze them using them at the bottom of the freezer. We also work down having a lot of frozen food so that if we lose power and it is a long outage we do not lose that much. We also top it off with purchased bags of ice cubes.
The last hurricane that went through here...we were lucky. We got our power back in a couple of days but had friends without power for more than a week. We invited them over to wash clothes, eat meals and sent them home with our extra bags of ice. Everyone seems to pitch in to help one another during those times!
Good hub filled with good advice. Up votes and sharing.
- Author
Now that's great hurricane planning Peggy! We got lucky this season, yet it's not over yet. We'll just wish it away :)
Hurricane Sandy is coming right towards my area of NJ and we're all prepared! We stocked up on canned foods, filled up the cars, and charging all our electronics (portable DVD player, laptops, nook, etc). If you have infants or babies, definitely stock up on powdered milk just in case of anything.
Thanks for more tips, Linda!
- Author
Great tip with the baby food Keith! Good luck with Hurricane Sandy! She gave Florida lots of wind and rain, but she wasn't too rough.
sunshine, do you have the cocktails ready for Frankenstorm? lol..
Thank you so much for the list of music videos to keep me entertained as I prepare for Hurricane Sandy. I hope she wasn't too mean to you! She is simply a Halloween party pooper! Voted up and useful!
Back for another read of this one.. I just wish there wasn't hurricane Sandy coming!
My mom stopped at the liquor store to get something "in case of snake bite." I just got out my candles and put some music together in case of losing power. We are stocked on food.
Popping by again to say great tips, and take care during this stormy season, all!!
It is sad to lose properties and be displaced because of hurricane. I contemplate those who are affected by hurricane feel. Thanks for sharing these tips as they will help those staying in areas that are likely to be affected hurricane.
Just came back for a reread to make sure I've done everything I should. I have....
We got just enough wind from Sandy for me to bring in the orchids. We were lucky again!
I vote this UP, etc. and will share.
Fortunately I stay in Greece at the moment and we seldom suffer from hurricanes such as in Florida.. Loved the information and tips though .. and the party music videos as well - especially Bruce Springsteen's Thunder Road :) Voted up, shared and pinned
- Author
LoveDoc, Hurricane Sandy only gave me two bad hair days due to the wind. I hope all is well with you down south :)
- Author
Jeannie ~ Christy ~ Bill ~ Lizyetter ... Hunker down! Wishing y'all good luck and no lose of power!!
- Author
Thank you Michelle and Nyamache!
Mary I'm glad you were able to save your orchids!!!
Hi sunshine, your comment made me laugh. Hurricane Frankenstorm is not a threat here in Miami. The worst hurricane here was Andrew in 1992. And then there was Wilma in 2004- 2005 around that time. The storm was widespread around South Florida. There was a lot of damage due to wind and flooding. Wilma destroyed coconut grove, this awesome spot here similar to las olas in Ft. Lauderdale. The monster mash is a good Halloween song to listen to during Frankenstorm. Glad that the storm is not expected to make landfall in Orlando.
- Author
LoveDoc, I just caught up with Sandy on CNN, she's a wild one!! She would have covered our state! I do not want another 2004 ever. We had 4 hurricanes. We are still recovering from those 6 weeks of fear! Enjoy your nice weather:)
It is coming up to that time of year again and am thankful for your reminder on how to prepare. You are right, it should be taken seriously but knowing how to make it tolerable through activities help ease the tension. Voted up!
- Author
Hi Teaches! It's officially Hurricane Season 2013. Our names didn't make the cut this year. Yay! Be safe!
Safe from the list, once again...wonderful tips and some rockin tunes!
- Author
The hurricane season is once again upon us...
Come to the Party...Listen to the music...and survive Linda's Birthday!!
Leave it to Miss Sunshine to present a fun way to deal with a serious matter. Stay safe!
- Author
Luckily Erika fizzled up, I guess she couldn't handle the pressure! :)
- Author
Hurricane Matthew is quite a monster (2016)
Matthew is coming! Stay safe, Sunshine!
- Author
Hunker down, Steph! We got this! Matthew will hopefully go away.
94