Surviving Extreme Weather Conditions: Essential Guide for 2025

Introduction:

Hey there! If you’ve ever found yourself shivering through a polar vortex, sweating through a heatwave, or bracing for a hurricane, you know how unpredictable and intense extreme weather can be. I’ve been there too, and let me tell you, it’s no joke. Whether it’s the bone-chilling cold of a winter storm or the relentless heat of a summer scorcher, surviving extreme weather conditions is becoming more of a necessity than ever. Being prepared isn’t just about comfort; it’s about safety.

Let’s talk about why this matters. In 2024, the world experienced its hottest year on record, with devastating floods, wildfires, and droughts making headlines globally. According to the Global Center on Adaptation, extreme weather events are now among the top global risks, reshaping economies and ecosystems. And it’s not just about the environment—it’s about us, our families, and our communities. So, let’s break it down and explore how to tackle these challenges head-on.

Understanding Weather Warnings and Alerts

I’ll never forget the morning I ignored a severe thunderstorm warning, thinking it was “just another stormy day.” Boy, was that a wake-up call! As I watched my neighbor’s trampoline sail past my kitchen window, I learned a valuable lesson about taking weather alerts seriously. After that incident, I dove deep into understanding weather warnings, and I’m here to share everything I’ve learned about staying ahead of dangerous weather.

 

The Difference Between a Watch and a Warning

First things first: there’s a crucial difference between a weather watch and a warning. A watch means “get ready,” while a warning means “take action now.” Think of it like this – a watch is when you’re watching the pot that might boil over, but a warning is when the water’s already splashing out! NOAA’s National Weather Service issues these alerts, and they’re literally designed to save lives.

Setting Up Weather Notifications on Your Phone

Let me walk you through setting up those life-saving notifications on your phone, because trust me, you don’t want to rely on hearing the outdoor sirens. Head to your phone’s settings and enable government alerts – these override even silent mode (which I’m eternally grateful for, after sleeping through a tornado watch last summer). For even better coverage, I recommend downloading multiple weather apps. The Weather Channel app is great for basics, but I’ve found RadarScope to be invaluable for more detailed information, especially during severe storms.

Regional Differences in Weather Warnings

Here’s something they don’t usually tell you about weather alerts: different regions have different thresholds for warnings. In Minnesota, where I used to live, a winter storm warning might require 6+ inches of snow, while the same warning in Georgia might be triggered by just 2 inches. Understanding your local criteria helps you gauge the true severity of warnings in your area.

Reading Nature’s Warning Signs

Nature itself often sends warning signs before severe weather hits, and learning to read these signals has become something of a hobby for me. That eerie green sky? That’s often a warning sign for hail or severe storms. Sudden pressure changes that make your ears pop? Could signal an approaching strong storm system. My favorite indicator is watching the birds – when they suddenly go quiet and disappear, it’s time to check the radar!

Creating a Family Emergency Flowchart

Pro tip: Create a simple flowchart for your family showing what actions to take for each type of alert. After years of emergency preparedness training, I’ve learned that panic makes it hard to think clearly. Having a visual guide posted on the fridge can make all the difference when seconds count. Mine includes simple instructions like “Tornado Warning = Basement Now!” and “Flood Warning = Move Cars to High Ground.”

Regularly Checking Your Alert Settings

Remember to check your emergency alert settings monthly – I do it when I pay my bills. You’d be surprised how often phone updates can reset these critical notifications. And please, don’t fall into the trap of dismissing warnings because previous ones didn’t pan out. It’s better to be prepared for ten false alarms than unprepared for one real emergency.

The Importance of Taking Warnings Seriously

The bottom line? Weather warnings aren’t just bureaucratic noise – they’re carefully calibrated alerts designed by meteorologists who’d rather be safe than sorry. In our increasingly extreme climate, understanding these warnings isn’t just helpful – it’s essential for survival.

Essential Emergency Kit Components

Let me tell you about the day I realized my “emergency kit” of a flashlight and some band-aids wasn’t going to cut it. During a week-long power outage after a massive ice storm, I learned the hard way what a proper emergency kit should look like. Now, after years of refining my emergency preparedness strategy, I’m here to share what actually works – and what’s just taking up precious space in your kit.

Water Storage: Critical Considerations

First, let’s talk about water – the most critical yet often overlooked component. The standard recommendation is one gallon per person per day for at least three days, but here’s a tip I discovered: rotate your water supply every six months. I mark my calendar with “water check day” and make it a family event. And don’t just store all that water in one huge container! I learned to diversify with different sizes – some one-gallon jugs for drinking and smaller bottles that are easier to handle for cooking and hygiene.

Food Selection: Practical Choices for Emergencies

Food is next, but forget those expensive “survival meals” I once wasted money on. Instead, I stock up on foods my family actually eats. Think peanut butter, canned fruits, nuts, and crackers. The key is to choose items with a long shelf life that don’t require cooking. Pro tip: include some comfort foods! During our last power outage, those chocolate bars were worth their weight in gold for morale.

Non-Negotiable Emergency Kit Essentials

Here’s my non-negotiable list of emergency kit essentials, refined through actual emergencies:

• A hand-crank emergency radio with NOAA weather alerts (mine has a USB charger built-in)
• Multiple flashlights plus extra batteries (stored separately to prevent corrosion)
• A comprehensive first aid kit with prescription medications
• Important documents in a waterproof container (I learned this after finding my insurance papers soaked)
• Multi-tool and manual can opener (electric can openers are useless in a power outage!)
• Battery bank for phones (get a high-capacity one – I recommend at least 20,000mAh)
• Emergency blankets and warm clothing
• Basic hygiene supplies (trust me, you’ll want these)
• Cash in small bills (when the power’s out, card readers don’t work)

Organizing Your Supplies for Quick Access

One mistake I made early on was storing everything in one huge plastic bin. Now, I organize supplies into several smaller, portable containers. This makes it easier to grab what we need quickly and ensures we can still evacuate with our essential supplies if necessary. I use clear bins and label everything – you don’t want to be rummaging around in the dark looking for that flashlight!

Customizing Your Kit for Specific Needs

Here’s something most guides won’t tell you: customize your kit based on your region and personal needs. Living in an area prone to ice storms, I include ice cleats and hand warmers. If you have pets, include their food and supplies. Got kids? Pack some games and activities – being stuck at home without power gets old fast, especially for little ones.

Regular Maintenance and Inventory Checks

Maintenance is crucial. I set a quarterly reminder to check expiration dates, test batteries, and update supplies. It might seem like overkill, but I’ve never regretted being over-prepared. I keep an inventory list taped inside each container and update it whenever I rotate items.

Remember, the best emergency kit is one you can actually use. Don’t just throw it together and forget about it – familiarize yourself with every component. Practice using that hand-crank radio. Know where everything is. When an emergency hits, you won’t have time to read instruction manuals or dig through boxes.

Want more guidance and experience on survival, Check out our article on Ultimate Guide to Wilderness Survival Skills.

Surviving Extreme Heat Conditions

I never truly understood the power of extreme heat until I spent a summer working with emergency responders during a record-breaking heatwave. The thermometer hit 106°F, and our emergency calls tripled. What stuck with me most wasn’t just the temperature – it was how quickly things could go wrong when people weren’t prepared.

Heat Exhaustion vs. Heat Stroke: Knowing the Difference

Let’s talk about heat exhaustion versus heat stroke, because knowing the difference could save a life. Heat exhaustion starts with heavy sweating, dizziness, and fatigue – your body’s warning system telling you to cool down NOW. But heat stroke? That’s when things get scary. When someone stops sweating despite the heat and becomes confused or unconscious, you’re dealing with a life-threatening emergency. I’ll never forget helping an elderly neighbor who thought he could handle gardening during peak heat hours. By the time we found him, he’d stopped sweating entirely and was disoriented – classic heat stroke symptoms.

Creating a Cooling Station at Home

Here’s my tried-and-true strategy for staying cool when the mercury soars, especially if your AC fails (which happened to me during that infamous heatwave). First, create a “cooling station” in your home. Choose the lowest level of your house – basements are ideal because heat rises. I set up a space with fans strategically placed to create cross-ventilation. The key is using two fans: one bringing in cooler air from outside (early morning is best) and another pushing hot air out.

Smart Hydration Strategies

Hydration isn’t just about drinking water – it’s about drinking smart. Your body needs electrolytes to function properly in extreme heat. I learned this the hard way after drinking only water during a heat emergency and ending up with hyponatremia (dangerous low sodium levels). Now I follow the “sip and salt” rule: drink small amounts frequently and include electrolyte-rich beverages or foods in your routine. A good guideline is checking your urine color – it should be light yellow, not clear or dark.

Effective Cooling Methods for the Body

Here’s something most people don’t realize about cooling methods: it’s not just about lowering air temperature. Your body has specific cooling points – wrists, neck, and feet are prime spots. I keep a few bandanas in the freezer; wearing one around your neck can help cool your entire body. During the worst of the heat, I take it a step further with “cooling stations” throughout the house – bowls of ice in front of fans create a makeshift air conditioning effect.

The “Solar Schedule”: Timing Your Day for Heat Survival

For those without AC, timing is everything. I’ve developed what I call the “solar schedule”:

• 4 AM – 7 AM: Open all windows to let in cool air
• 7 AM: Close everything up, including blinds and curtains
• Use light-blocking curtains on sun-facing windows
• Run major appliances only at night
• Cook outdoors or use microwave to avoid heating the house

Protecting Vulnerable Populations

Special attention needs to go to vulnerable populations. After working with elderly residents during heat emergencies, I’ve learned that older adults often don’t feel thirsty even when dehydrated. If you have elderly neighbors, check on them daily during heat waves. The same goes for young children – they can become dehydrated much faster than adults.

Clothing Choices for Extreme Heat

One of my most important discoveries was about clothing choices in extreme heat. Counter-intuitively, very light, loose-fitting, long-sleeved clothing often provides better protection than tank tops and shorts. Think about what desert-dwelling cultures wear – there’s wisdom in those flowing, light-colored garments that cover the skin while allowing air circulation.

Remember: extreme heat is a silent killer because its effects can be gradual and deceptive. Don’t wait until you feel thirsty to drink, don’t wait until you feel sick to cool down, and most importantly, don’t think you can “tough it out.” I’ve seen too many strong, healthy people end up in emergency care because they underestimated the power of extreme heat.

Cold Weather Survival Techniques

You know that moment when your car won’t start in sub-zero temperatures, and you realize you’re wearing dress shoes and a light jacket? That was me, stuck on a remote road during one of the worst winter storms I’d ever experienced. That night taught me more about cold weather survival than any training manual ever could.

Understanding Hypothermia: The Silent Threat

Let’s start with the basics of how cold actually affects your body because understanding this changed how I approach winter survival. Hypothermia doesn’t just happen to people who fall through ice – it can sneak up on you gradually. The first signs are subtle: slight shivering, fumbling hands, mild confusion. By the time someone’s severely hypothermic, they might actually feel warm and want to remove clothing – a deadly impulse I once had to prevent in a stranded hiker.

Strategic Layering Techniques for Extreme Cold

The layering technique I’ve perfected over years of winter emergencies goes beyond the usual “base layer, insulating layer, outer layer” advice. Here’s my strategic approach:

• Base layer: Never cotton! I learned this after a sweaty cotton shirt nearly froze me. Merino wool or synthetic materials that wick moisture are worth every penny.
• Mid layer: Think air pockets. Fleece or wool creates tiny air spaces that your body heats up.
• Outer layer: Must be windproof and water-resistant. Wind chill can drop your body temperature faster than low temperatures alone.

Essential Winter Car Kit: Beyond the Basics

Vehicle survival in winter deserves special attention. After my car breakdown episode, I created what I call my “winter car kit 2.0”:

• Heavy-duty sleeping bag rated for -20°F (yes, that cold)
• Chemical hand warmers (check expiration dates yearly)
• Collapsible snow shovel
• Cat litter for traction
• High-calorie emergency food (your body burns more calories staying warm)
• LED flares (battery-powered ones don’t freeze like chemical flares)
• Spare boots and winter clothing

Creating a Winter Survival Pod at Home

Home heating during power outages is another crucial skill I’ve unfortunately had to master. The key is creating a “warm room” – basically a winter survival pod in your house. Pick your smallest room with the fewest windows, seal off any drafts, and focus on heating just that space. During our last winter power outage, my family of four lived in our home office for three days using safe heating methods:

• Battery-operated carbon monoxide detector (absolute must!)
• Multiple layers of blankets
• Strategic use of sunlight during the day
• Body heat (yes, staying close together actually works)

Frostbite Risks and Wind Chill Awareness

Here’s something most people don’t realize about frostbite: it can happen way faster than you’d think. I’ve seen fingers become frostbitten in less than 30 minutes in the wrong conditions. The trick is understanding wind chill – at 0°F with a 20 mph wind, your exposed skin can freeze in just 10 minutes. I now use the “nose test” – if my nose starts to sting, it’s time to cover up, no matter how short the outdoor exposure will be.

The Redundancy Principle in Survival Planning

One of my most valuable lessons came from a winter survival instructor: your survival plan needs redundancy. If you’re relying on a space heater, have backup batteries. If you’re counting on your phone for emergency calls, have a hand-crank charger. Every primary system needs a backup, and every backup needs a backup. It might sound paranoid, but when you’re dealing with life-threatening cold, paranoid is prudent.

Debunking the Alcohol Warmth Myth

Speaking of life-threatening, let’s talk about the myth of using alcohol to stay warm. I once had to help rescue someone who thought whiskey would keep them warm while waiting for help in their stranded car. Alcohol makes you feel warmer by dilating blood vessels, but this actually speeds up heat loss. Stick to hot drinks without alcohol – I keep instant coffee and hot chocolate in my emergency kit.

Remember: cold weather survival isn’t just about enduring until help arrives – it’s about maintaining your ability to think clearly and act effectively. Extreme cold affects decision-making abilities, which is why having practiced protocols and readily available supplies is so crucial. Don’t wait until you’re in an emergency to figure out how your emergency gear works or where you stored it.

Comparing Extreme Weather Scenarios

To better understand how to survive extreme weather, let’s compare two common scenarios: extreme cold and extreme heat.

Aspect	Extreme Cold	Extreme Heat
Health Risks	Hypothermia, frostbite, respiratory issues	Heatstroke, dehydration, exacerbation of chronic illnesses
Preparation Tips	Layer clothing, stock high-calorie foods, insulate your home	Stay hydrated, use fans or AC, avoid outdoor activities during peak heat
Emergency Kit	Thermal blankets, hand warmers, snow shovel	Cooling towels, electrolyte drinks, portable fans
Long-term Impact	Frozen pipes, power outages, transportation disruptions	Crop failures, wildfires, strain on energy grids

Hurricane and Flooding Preparedness

I learned about hurricane preparation the hard way during my first Category 3 storm. Despite the warnings, I thought staying put on the second floor of my house would be fine. When the storm surge flooded the entire first floor in less than an hour, I realized just how dangerous that assumption had been. Now, after experiencing multiple hurricanes and helping with flood recovery efforts, I’m sharing the critical lessons that could save your life.

Evacuation Planning: The “72-48-24” Timeline

Let’s start with evacuation planning because timing is everything. The biggest mistake I see people make is waiting too long to leave. Here’s what I’ve learned: when officials recommend evacuation, that’s not the time to start planning – it’s the time to execute your already-prepared plan. After watching families struggle to evacuate during a recent hurricane, I developed what I call the “72-48-24” timeline:

72 hours before expected landfall:

• Fill vehicles with gas (I keep extra gas cans ready during hurricane season)
• Gather important documents in waterproof containers
• Stock up on non-perishable food and water
• Test your emergency radio and backup power banks

48 hours before:

• Board up windows or close storm shutters
• Move valuable items to upper floors
• Fill bathtubs and large containers with water
• Pack your evacuation bags (one per family member)

24 hours before:

• Move vehicles to higher ground
• Charge all devices
• Clear your yard of potential projectiles
• Be ready to leave immediately if ordered

The Hidden Dangers of Floodwater

Speaking of flooding – it’s not just about the water level. During my time helping with flood recovery, I’ve seen how contaminated floodwater can be. It often contains sewage, chemicals, and dangerous debris. That’s why I always keep waterproof boots and heavy gloves in my emergency kit. Never wade through floodwater unless absolutely necessary for evacuation.

Fortifying Your Home Against Flooding

Home fortification against flooding requires strategic thinking. After my first-floor flooding experience, I learned these crucial steps:

• Install check valves in plumbing to prevent backups
• Keep sandbags or flood barriers ready (stored in an easily accessible place)
• Create a detailed inventory of belongings with photos (store digitally in cloud storage)
• Mark your breaker box with clear labels for quick power shutdown

Prescription Medications: A Critical Prep Step

Here’s something most people don’t consider about hurricane preparation: your prescription medications. During one evacuation, a neighbor had to turn back because they forgot their heart medication. Now I maintain a “hurricane med kit” with at least a two-week supply of essential medications, kept in waterproof containers with copies of prescriptions.

Navigating Floodwaters Safely

Navigation during flooding requires special knowledge. I’ve developed these rules after seeing too many people make dangerous mistakes:

• Six inches of moving water can knock you down
• Two feet of water will float most vehicles
• Water depth is often deceptive – use a stick to test depth before stepping
• Avoid bridges over fast-moving water
• Stay out of flood channels and drainage ditches

Post-Flood Safety and Recovery

Post-flood safety is just as critical as preparation. The aftermath of a flood can be more dangerous than the event itself. After helping with several recovery efforts, here’s what I emphasize:

• Never enter a flooded building until it’s declared safe
• Watch for exposed electrical wires and gas leaks
• Document all damage with photos before cleanup
• Wear protective gear during cleanup (N95 mask, gloves, boots)
• Be aware of mold growth – it can start within 24-48 hours

Community Preparation: Strength in Numbers

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is about community preparation. During our last hurricane, we created a neighborhood communication system using waterproof two-way radios. Cell networks often fail during severe weather, but our radio network helped coordinate evacuations and share critical information.

Remember: hurricanes and floods are not single events but processes that can last days or weeks. Your preparation needs to account for both immediate survival and long-term recovery. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking “it won’t be that bad” – in my experience, it’s better to be over-prepared than caught off guard.

Tornado Safety Protocols

The sound of a tornado is something you never forget – like a freight train roaring right overhead. I learned this firsthand during what started as a routine spring afternoon, only to end up huddled in my basement as an EF3 tornado passed within a mile of my house. That experience, combined with years of studying tornado safety and helping with disaster response, taught me that survival often comes down to the decisions you make in just a few critical minutes.

Identifying Your Safe Space

Let’s start with the most crucial aspect: identifying your safe space. After assessing dozens of tornado-damaged homes, I’ve seen what works and what doesn’t. The ideal tornado shelter is:

• Below ground level (basement or storm cellar)
• Away from windows and exterior walls
• Under a heavy table or workbench
• Surrounded by strong walls

Don’t have a basement? I’ve helped many families create what I call a “sanctuary room” – usually a first-floor bathroom, closet, or hallway. The key is to choose a small room near the center of your house, away from exterior walls and windows. One family I worked with transformed their hallway closet into a tornado shelter by reinforcing the walls and stocking it with emergency supplies.

Building a Tornado-Specific Emergency Kit

Speaking of supplies, your tornado kit needs to be different from your regular emergency kit. During tornado season, I keep what I call a “grab and dive” bag in our shelter area containing:

• Battery-powered NOAA weather radio
• Heavy boots (for walking through debris afterward)
• Bike or football helmets (head protection is crucial)
• Flashlights with fresh batteries
• Essential medications
• Cell phones and backup batteries
• Important documents in a waterproof container
• Thick blankets or sleeping bags (can protect from debris)

Understanding Tornado Watches vs. Warnings

Here’s something critical that many people miss: the difference between a tornado watch and a warning. A watch means conditions are right for tornadoes – time to prepare. A warning means a tornado has been spotted or indicated by radar – time to take immediate action. I’ve seen too many people wait until the warning to start thinking about where they’ll take shelter.

Vehicle Safety During a Tornado

Vehicle safety during a tornado requires split-second decision-making. After years of studying tornado incidents, here’s what I’ve learned:

• If you can drive away from the tornado’s path at right angles, do it
• If you’re caught in the open, find a low spot like a ditch (last resort)
• Never try to outrun a tornado
• Never shelter under an overpass (it creates a wind tunnel effect)

Post-Tornado Dangers and Protective Gear

The aftermath of a tornado brings its own dangers. During recovery work, I’ve seen numerous injuries from:

• Exposed nails and broken glass
• Downed power lines
• Unstable structures
• Gas leaks
• Contaminated water

That’s why I always emphasize having proper protective gear in your kit:

• Work gloves
• N95 masks
• Safety goggles
• Steel-toed boots or sturdy shoes
• Long sleeves and pants

Situational Awareness During Tornado Season

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is about situational awareness. During tornado season, I make it a habit to:

• Check weather forecasts daily
• Know the locations of all nearby storm shelters
• Keep my phone charged and weather alerts enabled
• Have multiple ways to receive warnings (radio, phone, weather radio)
• Keep gas tanks at least half full
• Have a plan for each location where I spend significant time

Debunking Tornado Myths

Remember those movies showing people opening windows before a tornado? That’s a dangerous myth that wastes precious time. Focus instead on getting to your safe space immediately. In fact, I’ve timed my family’s “tornado drill” – we can get from anywhere in the house to our basement shelter in under 45 seconds.

Practicing Your Tornado Plan

The most important thing I’ve learned about tornado safety is this: you must practice your plan before you need it. Under stress, you’ll fall back on what you’ve practiced. I run monthly drills with my family, including scenarios like “power’s out” or “stairs are blocked.” Every drill teaches us something new about improving our response.

Don’t let the relative rarity of tornadoes lull you into complacency. I’ve seen too many people say, “It won’t happen here” – right up until it does. Proper preparation isn’t about living in fear; it’s about having the confidence that comes from knowing exactly what to do when every second counts.

Conclusion:

Extreme weather is here to stay, but that doesn’t mean we’re powerless. By understanding the risks, preparing effectively, and advocating for systemic change, we can navigate these challenges with confidence.

So, the next time you hear a weather alert, don’t panic—prepare. Stock your emergency kit, and stay informed. Because when it comes to extreme weather, being ready isn’t just an option; it’s a necessity.

Stay safe out there, and remember: we’re all in this together.

What’s your experience with extreme weather? Share your tips and stories in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What’s the minimum emergency supplies I need to keep at home for any weather emergency?

The essential “core kit” for any weather emergency should include:

• 3-day supply of non-perishable food per person
• 1 gallon of water per person per day (minimum 3-day supply)
• Battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA weather radio
• First aid kit with personal medications
• Flashlights and extra batteries
• Important documents in waterproof container
• Multi-tool and manual can opener
• Cell phone chargers and backup battery bank
• Cash in small bills
• Basic hygiene supplies

Remember: This is your baseline kit. You’ll need to add specific items based on your region’s typical weather emergencies and your family’s unique needs.

2. How do I know when to evacuate versus sheltering in place?

The decision to evacuate or shelter in place depends on several factors:

Evacuate if:

• Officials issue a mandatory evacuation order
• You live in a mobile home (camping tent) or vulnerable structure during any severe weather
• You’re in a flood-prone area with rising water
• You don’t have adequate supplies or protection for the expected conditions
• You have medical needs that require power or professional care

Shelter in place if:

• Officials advise staying put
• The weather event is immediate (like a tornado) and you have appropriate shelter
• Roads are already unsafe for travel
• You have adequate supplies and a safe structure

3. What should I do if I lose power during extreme temperatures?

During Hot Weather:

• Close blinds and curtains during the day
• Open windows at night if it is cooler outside
• Use battery-powered fans
• Stay in lowest level of home
• Use cool, damp cloths on neck and wrists
• Avoid using heat-generating appliances

During Cold Weather:

• Close off unused rooms
• Stuff towels under doors to prevent drafts
• Layer clothing and use extra blankets
• Run water at a trickle to prevent pipe freezing
• Use only safe heating devices (no charcoal grills indoors!)
• Gather everyone in one room

4. How can I protect my pets during extreme weather events?

Create a pet-specific emergency plan that includes:

• 3-day supply of food and water
• Medications and medical records in a waterproof container
• Current photos and ID tags
• Leashes, harnesses, and carriers
• Litter boxes/supplies for cats
• Pet first-aid kit
• List of pet-friendly hotels/shelters
• Familiar items (toys, bedding) to reduce stress
• Cleaning supplies for accidents

Never leave pets behind during evacuations – if it’s not safe for you, it’s not safe for them.

5. What are the most dangerous mistakes people make during extreme weather events?

The top potentially fatal mistakes include:

• Driving through floodwater (just 6 inches can sweep away a car)
• Ignoring evacuation orders (“it won’t be that bad” mentality)
• Using generators/grills indoors (carbon monoxide poisoning)
• Waiting too long to seek shelter from tornadoes
• Not having backup communication methods
• Underestimating the speed of weather changes
• Relying solely on cell phones for emergency information
• Not maintaining emergency supplies (expired food/medications)
• Attempting to outrun severe weather
• Not having an emergency plan practiced and ready

Each of these mistakes can be life-threatening, but they’re all preventable with proper planning and awareness.