General
The potential for hurricanes in our Virginia Beach area exist. We live in Hurricane Evacuation Zone 1; therefore, we must do some pre-planning. Watches and storm warnings are issued by the National Weather Service. A HURRICANE WATCH means hurricane conditions pose a possible threat to our area within 24-36 hours. It does not necessarily mean a hurricane will strike. A HURRICANE WARNING means hurricane conditions are expected within 24 hours or less. Therefore, make your preparations according to the category posted by the National Weather Service.
Category 1 Winds 74-95 mph - tidal surge 4-5 feet - minor damage
Category 2 Winds 96-110 mph - tidal surge 6-8 feet - can uproot trees/break windows
Category 3 Winds 111-130 mph - tidal surge 9-12 feet
Category 4 Winds 131-155 mph - tidal surge 13-18 feet
Category 5 Winds 155+ mph - tidal surge 18+ feet
We also live in a STORM SURGE ZONE for ALL STORM CLASSIFICATIONS, CATEGORIES 1-5
Preplanning
- Plan for your pet if you have one. In case you have to evacuate, keep in mind that the city shelters will NOT accept pets.
- Monitor news and weather information regularly. Evacuation recommendations will be made by the City of Virginia Beach based upon input from the National Weather Service. These might involve a "recommended evacuation" in which the decision is left up to you or a "mandatory evacuation" in which case you have no choice but to leave. Following the city's instructions is very important for your safety. Emergency services (police and fire) may not be available and public utilities may be disrupted - no electricity, no refrigeration, no water, no elevators, no garage doors opening, no parking lot gates, streets are flooded. etc. In any case, have an "evacuation plan," know where you will be going, and take what you need (supplies, prescriptions, etc.). Be sure to notify family members as to your plans. Discuss the latest Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance on Coronavirus (COVID-19) and how it may affect your hurricane planning.
- During hurricane season, whether there is a storm prediction or not, if you are planning time away from your condo, whether days/weeks, make sure you REMOVE EVERYTHING FROM YOUR BALCONY that is not nailed down - bringing furniture inside for safety.
- When leaving your unit, CUT WATER OFF AT THE MAIN VALUE in your condo unit. TURN OFF ELECTRICITY and/or GAS to the hot water heater. CLOSE STORM SHUTTERS (only if they are directly on your windows/sliding doors - if not, please leave a key with a neighbor or friend to be able to do that if necessary). Close windows and doors tightly, and close draperies in case glass should shatter.
- Collect important papers and valuables. Make sure your insurance policies and personal documents, like IDs are up-to-date. Make copies and keep them in a secure password protected digital space.
- Keep your cell phone charged when you know a hurricane is in the forecast and purchase backup charging devices to power electronics.
- Check your supply of medical prescriptions.
- Have on hand a battery-powered radio and flashlight plus extra batteries in case of loss of power.
- Check fuel in automotive vehicles prior to storm.
- Plan for an emergency water supply such as filling containers with water and/or filling up a bathtub. If power is lost, a bathtub filled with water will insure that you have adequate water to flush your toilets.
- Obtain nonperishable food. Plan at least a three-day supply of food and water. Make sure you have a manual can opener.
- Have enough supplies for your household, including medications, disinfectant supplies, masks, pet supplies in your "go bag" or car trunk. After a hurricane, you may not have access to these supplies for days or even weeks, if you did not prepare ahead of time.
- If you or anyone in your household is an individual with a disability, identify if you may need additional help during an emergency.
- Check with neighbors, senior adults, or those who ay need additional help securing hurricane plans to see how you can be of assistance to others.
Considerations During the Storm
If you do not evacuate, stay indoors, away from windows. Go to a well-protected section of your condo. When the eye of the storm passes directly over you, there will be a sudden calm. Be prepared for the winds to return from the opposite direction.
After the Storm
Based on the severity of the storm, basic services may not be available during and after the storm. However, you can inspect for storm damage and watch for downed power lines. You can also check with neighbors that might need your help.
