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What to Do in a Natural Disaster

When I first moved to California, I had no clue how to prepare for an earthquake. Growing up in the Midwest, tornado drills were second nature, but the thought of the ground shaking beneath my feet terrified me.

It wasn’t until I experienced my first minor tremor that I realized how woefully unprepared I truly was.

That moment sparked a passion for disaster preparedness that has stayed with me ever since. Over the years, I’ve learned that being ready for natural disasters needs more than just stocking up on canned goods and bottled water.

Understanding the unique challenges each type of disaster presents and knowing how to respond quickly and effectively is crucial.

Whether you’re facing an earthquake, flood, hurricane, or blizzard, staying calm and having a plan is key. Here are the specifics of how to handle each of these natural disasters.

We’ll cover everything from the science behind these events to practical steps you can take to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.

Understanding Natural Disasters

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of disaster response, it’s important to understand what causes these events and why they can be so devastating.

Earthquakes: The Ground Beneath Our Feet

Earthquakes occur when tectonic plates shift and release energy in the form of seismic waves. These waves can cause the ground to shake violently, leading to structural damage and potential injuries.

The severity of an earthquake is measured on the Richter scale, with anything above a 7.0 considered a major earthquake.

One of the biggest challenges with earthquakes is their unpredictability. Unlike hurricanes or blizzards, which can often be forecast days in advance, earthquakes can strike without warning.

This makes preparation absolutely crucial.

The San Andreas Fault in California is one of the most well-known fault lines in the world. It’s capable of producing devastating earthquakes, like the 1906 San Francisco earthquake that measured an estimated 7.9 on the Richter scale.

But it’s not just California that’s at risk.

The New Madrid Seismic Zone in the central United States has the potential to produce earthquakes that could affect multiple states.

Floods: When Water Takes Over

Floods can be caused by heavy rainfall, melting snow, or storm surges in coastal areas. They’re one of the most common natural disasters worldwide and can lead to significant property damage and loss of life.

Flash floods are particularly dangerous because they can occur with little to no warning.

The power of moving water is often underestimated. Just six inches of fast-moving floodwater can knock an adult off their feet, while two feet of water can float a car. This is why it’s so important to never try to walk or drive through floodwaters.

The Great Mississippi Flood of 1927 is a prime example of how devastating floods can be. It affected 27,000 square miles across seven states and displaced over 700,000 people.

More recently, Hurricane Harvey in 2017 caused catastrophic flooding in Houston, Texas, with some areas receiving over 50 inches of rain.

Hurricanes: The Perfect Storm

Hurricanes, also known as tropical cyclones or typhoons in different parts of the world, are massive storm systems that form over warm ocean waters. They’re characterized by strong winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surges that can cause severe coastal flooding.

The size and strength of hurricanes make them particularly destructive. They can affect entire regions, causing widespread damage to infrastructure and disrupting daily life for weeks or even months.

Hurricane Katrina in 2005 is one of the most infamous examples of a hurricane’s destructive power. It caused over $125 billion in damage and resulted in the deaths of over 1,800 people.

The storm surge was so powerful that it breached the levees protecting New Orleans, flooding 80% of the city.

Blizzards: Winter’s Wrath

Blizzards are severe winter storms characterized by strong winds and heavy snowfall. They can last for several days, causing whiteout conditions and making travel nearly impossible.

The extreme cold associated with blizzards can lead to hypothermia and frostbite if proper precautions aren’t taken.

One of the biggest dangers of blizzards is their ability to knock out power and leave people stranded without heat or access to supplies. This is why having an emergency kit and a plan in place is so important.

The Great Blizzard of 1888 is still considered one of the worst winter storms in U.S. history. It dumped 40-50 inches of snow across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, with snowdrifts reaching up to 50 feet high in some areas.

More recently, the 2016 North American blizzard, nicknamed “Snowzilla,” dropped over 30 inches of snow in parts of the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast, paralyzing major cities like Washington D.C.

And New York City.

Preparing for Natural Disasters

Now that we understand what we’re up against, let’s talk about how to prepare. The key to surviving any natural disaster is being ready before it strikes.

Create an Emergency Kit

Your emergency kit should contain enough supplies to last at least 72 hours. Here’s what you should include:

Non-perishable food and water (one gallon per person per day)
First aid kit
Flashlights and extra batteries
Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
Warm clothing and blankets
Cash and important documents in a waterproof container
Prescription medications
Personal hygiene items

Don’t forget to include items for your pets in your emergency kit! They’re part of the family too, and their needs are often overlooked in disaster planning.

Consider adding some comfort items to your kit as well. A deck of cards, a favorite book, or a small game can help pass the time and keep spirits up during a stressful situation.

For children, a stuffed animal or favorite toy can provide comfort and a sense of normalcy.

Develop a Communication Plan

In the chaos of a natural disaster, it’s easy for families to get separated. That’s why it’s crucial to have a communication plan in place. Decide on an out-of-area contact who can relay messages between family members if local phone lines are down.

Make sure everyone knows this person’s phone number by heart.

In addition to an out-of-area contact, establish a meeting place where your family can reunite if you’re separated. Choose a location that’s easy to find and remember, like a specific park or a relative’s house. Have a backup location in case the first one is inaccessible.

Consider creating a family emergency communication plan card for each family member to carry. This card should include important phone numbers, meeting places, and any medical information that first responders might need to know.

Know Your Area’s Risks

Different regions are prone to different types of disasters. If you live in California, you need to be prepared for earthquakes.

If you’re on the Gulf Coast, hurricanes are a major concern.

Research the specific risks in your area and tailor your preparations accordingly.

Check with your local emergency management office for information about potential hazards in your area. They often have detailed maps showing flood zones, fault lines, and other risk factors.

Understanding these risks can help you make informed decisions about where to live and how to prepare.

Don’t forget about secondary hazards. For example, earthquakes can lead to landslides in hilly areas, while hurricanes can spawn tornadoes.

Being aware of these secondary risks can help you plan more effectively.

Practice Your Plan

Having a plan is great, but if you’ve never practiced it, you might freeze up when disaster strikes. Run through your emergency procedures regularly with your family.

Practice evacuating your home quickly, test your communication plan, and review the contents of your emergency kit.

Make these practice sessions fun for kids by turning them into a game. Time how quickly everyone can grab their emergency kits and meet at the designated spot.

Reward improvements in speed and preparedness.

For earthquake-prone areas, join in earthquake drills like the Great ShakeOut. These large-scale drills can help you and your community practice earthquake safety procedures together.

Responding to Natural Disasters

Now, let’s get into the specifics of how to respond when disaster strikes.

Earthquakes: Drop, Cover, and Hold On

When you feel the ground start to shake:

Drop to the ground immediately.
Take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture like a table or desk.
Hold on to your shelter until the shaking stops.

If you’re outdoors, move to an open area away from buildings, trees, and power lines. If you’re driving, pull over to a safe place away from overpasses or bridges.

After the shaking stops, be prepared for aftershocks. Check yourself and others for injuries, and be cautious of fallen debris or unstable structures.

If you’re trapped, stay calm and try to attract attention to your location by making noise or using a whistle if you have one.

Most earthquake-related injuries occur when people try to move around or leave buildings during the shaking. Staying put and protecting yourself from falling objects is usually the safest course of action.

Floods: Head for Higher Ground

If a flood is imminent:

Move to higher ground immediately.
Do not try to walk or drive through floodwaters.
If you’re trapped in a building, go to the highest level but do not climb into a closed attic.

After the flood, do not return home until authorities say it’s safe. Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded and watch for debris.

Floodwaters can be contaminated, so avoid contact if possible.

If you must walk through floodwater, use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you. After the flood, be cautious of electrocution risks.

Don’t touch electrical equipment if it’s wet or if you’re standing in water.

Have a qualified electrician check your property before turning the power back on.

Hurricanes: Evacuate or Shelter in Place

If a hurricane is approaching:

Follow evacuation orders if given.
If sheltering in place, stay in an interior room on the lowest level of your home.
Stay away from windows and glass doors.

After the hurricane passes, be cautious of downed power lines and flooded areas. Do not use electrical equipment if it’s wet or you’re standing in water.

If you’re evacuating, leave early to avoid being caught in flood waters or in traffic. Know your evacuation route and have a plan for where you’ll stay.

If you’re sheltering in place, fill bathtubs and large containers with water for sanitary purposes in case tap water becomes unavailable.

The eye of the hurricane can create a false sense of calm. Stay inside until local authorities say it’s safe to go out, even if it seems like the storm has passed.

Blizzards: Stay Warm and Stay Put

During a blizzard:

Stay indoors and keep warm.
If you must go outside, wear layers of warm, loose-fitting clothing.
Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow – it’s a common cause of heart attacks during winter storms.

After the blizzard, check on neighbors, especially the elderly or those with special needs. Clear snow from your roof to prevent collapse, but be careful of ice dams.

If you lose power, close off unused rooms to consolidate and keep heat. Stuff towels or rags in cracks under doors and cover windows at night.

Eat regularly and drink plenty of water – food provides the body with energy for producing its own heat.

Be cautious when using choice heating sources like fireplaces or space heaters. Ensure proper ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide buildup, and never use outdoor heating equipment inside.

Common issues and How to Avoid Them

One of the biggest mistakes people make is underestimating the power of natural disasters. Many people think “it won’t happen to me” or “it won’t be that bad.” This mindset can lead to inadequate preparation and dangerous decision-making during a disaster.

To avoid this pitfall, problem, issue, problem, issue, educate yourself about the potential impacts of disasters in your area. Look at historical data and scientific projections.

Understanding the real risks can motivate you to take preparation seriously.

Another common issue is relying too heavily on technology. While smartphones and apps can be incredibly useful for receiving alerts and staying informed, they can also fail during a disaster.

Always have backup plans that don’t rely on electricity or internet access.

Consider investing in a battery-powered or hand-crank radio. These can be crucial for receiving emergency broadcasts when other forms of communication are down.

Also, keep physical copies of important information and maps in your emergency kit.

Many people also make the mistake of not maintaining their emergency supplies. Food and water can expire, batteries can lose their charge, and medications can go out of date.

Set a regular schedule to check and rotate your emergency supplies.

Lastly, don’t forget about the psychological impact of disasters. The stress and trauma of experiencing a natural disaster can have long-lasting effects.

Include resources for mental health support in your disaster preparedness plan.

Adapting to Different Scenarios

Every disaster is unique, and you may need to adapt your response based on your specific situation. For example, if you live in a high-rise building, your earthquake response might involve staying put as opposed to trying to evacuate.

If you have mobility issues, you might need to make special arrangements for evacuation during a hurricane.

The key is to think through various scenarios in advance and have multiple plans in place. This flexibility can make all the difference when disaster strikes.

If you have young children, consider how you’ll keep them calm and occupied during a disaster. Include familiar snacks and activities in your emergency kit.

For elderly family members or those with medical needs, confirm you have a plan for their specific requirements, including any necessary medical equipment or medications.

For pet owners, remember that many emergency shelters don’t accept animals. Research pet-friendly hotels or shelters in advance, or arrange with friends or family outside your area to care for your pets if you need to evacuate.

If you live in an area prone to multiple types of disasters, prioritize your preparations based on the most likely and most severe risks. For example, if you live in Florida, hurricane preparedness might be your top priority, but you should also have a plan for severe thunderstorms and flooding.

Building on the Basics

Understanding how to respond to natural disasters is just the beginning. As you become more knowledgeable about disaster preparedness, you can start to take on more advanced topics like:

Community emergency response training
Advanced first aid and medical skills
Long-term survival techniques
Rebuilding and recovery after a disaster

Many communities offer Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training. These programs teach citizens about disaster preparedness and train them in basic disaster response skills.

Skills learned in CERT training can be invaluable not just for your own family, but for helping your community in the aftermath of a disaster.

Advanced first aid skills can be crucial in a disaster situation when medical help might be delayed. Consider taking courses in wilderness first aid or becoming certified in CPR and AED use.

Long-term survival skills like foraging, water purification, and basic construction can be useful for extended emergencies. While these situations are rare, having these skills can provide peace of mind and could be life-saving in extreme circumstances.

Understanding the process of rebuilding and recovery after a disaster can help you navigate the often complex world of insurance claims, government assistance, and community rebuilding efforts. Familiarize yourself with your insurance policies and what they cover.

Know what government assistance might be available in different disaster scenarios.

The more you learn, the better prepared you’ll be to handle whatever nature throws your way.

Practical Exercises

To reinforce your disaster preparedness skills, try these exercises:

Practice your family’s evacuation plan, timing how long it takes to gather essentials and leave your home.

Try this at different times of day and night to confirm everyone knows what to do in any situation.

Conduct a “lights out” evening where you rely only on your emergency supplies for light, food, and entertainment.

This can help you identify gaps in your preparations and get everyone used to using emergency equipment.

Learn how to shut off utilities in your home and practice doing so safely.

In many disaster scenarios, knowing how to turn off gas, water, and electricity can prevent further damage or danger.

Take a first aid and CPR course to improve your emergency medical skills.

Many local Red Cross chapters or community centers offer these courses.

Create a mock disaster scenario and run through it with your family.

This could involve role-playing different situations, like what to do if family members are separated or if someone is injured.

Practice using your emergency communication plan.

Have family members try to contact each other and your out-of-area contact using different methods (phone, text, social media).

If you live in an earthquake-prone area, conduct your own “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” drill.

Time how quickly everyone can get into a safe position.

For those in hurricane-prone areas, practice boarding up windows or installing storm shutters.

The middle of a storm is not the time to figure out how these systems work.

In areas susceptible to winter storms, practice winterizing your vehicle.

Know how to put on snow chains and keep a winter emergency kit in your car.

Regularly review and update your emergency plans and kits.

As your family’s needs change, your disaster preparedness strategies should evolve too.

The goal of these exercises isn’t to scare you, but to make you feel more confident and prepared. Regular practice can help these actions become second nature, reducing panic and confusion when a real disaster strikes.

Key Takeaways

Understanding the science behind natural disasters can help you better prepare for them.
Having an emergency kit and communication plan is crucial for all types of disasters.
Knowing the specific risks in your area allows you to tailor your preparations accordingly.
Different disasters need different responses – know what to do for earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, and blizzards.
Avoid common pitfalls, problems, issues, problems, issues, problems, issues like underestimating the power of natural disasters or relying too heavily on technology.
Be flexible and adapt your plans to different scenarios.
Continue building on your knowledge and skills to become even better prepared.
Regular practice and exercises can help reinforce your disaster preparedness skills.