TS Chantal. July 5, 2025/NOAA Satellites
Being prepared is the only way to combat a storm. Just ask those along the East Coast this week. Hurricane Erin, currently a Category 2 storm, is causing issues for North Carolina residents and has its sights on the Northeast next.
The National Weather Service issued a storm surge watch and tropical storm watch for the Outer Banks, with breaking waves of 15 to 20 feet in the forecast.
“Life-threatening rip currents are expected along U.S. east coast beaches,” the National Hurricane Center said in their Tuesday morning advisory.
Impacts are expected to begin Tuesday, and the Outer Banks is forecast to get heavy rain Wednesday night into Thursday with winds over 40 mph. There are currently evacuation orders in place for Hatteras Island and Ocracoke Island. From there, the storm will run parallel to the Eastern Seaboard, posing threats of life-threatening surf and dangerous rip currents to areas like New Jersey, New York, and Long Island throughout the week.
For those asked to evacuate, there was enough warning in this instance to get ducks in a row and prepare not only homes, but themselves for when an immediate move is necessary.
So, what items should you take with you during a hurricane evacuation—and how can you safeguard your home before leaving?
Get your go-kit ready
“It is essential to prepare a go-kit ahead of time,” says Caileigh Peterson, at Midland, a leader in weather alert technology. “Ensure your kit includes enough supplies to last several days and meets the unique needs of everyone in your household, including pets.”
Peterson recommends including an emergency radio with a flashlight; battery-powered charger; water and non-perishable food to last a minimum of three days; personal hygiene supplies; pet supplies; a seven-day supply of prescription and over-the-counter medications; and eyeglasses or contacts.
This kit should be packed and ready to go at a moment’s notice and either placed in your car or at the most accessible exit for when you depart.
Helpful paperwork to have on hand
If you have advance warning before evacuating, “you should definitely grab copies of your birth certificates, passports, insurance information, social security cards, marriage license, children’s school IDs, and paperwork for your pets,” says Melanie Musson, insurance expert for Quote.com.
Bring copies of your immunization records, medical insurance cards, and prescriptions, as well.
If time permits, take along sentimental items that can’t be replaced, “such as family heirlooms, photo albums, or unique memorabilia,” advises Musson.
But avoid the temptation to pack up your entire home.
Insurance is designed to cover personal property losses, which means you don’t have to bring everything with you—particularly replaceable items like clothes or gadgets.
“If packing prevents you from leaving in a timely manner, you’re packing too much,” says Musson. “Safety should be prioritized.”
What to do before you lock up and leave
If you have time before a hurricane evacuation, snap photos and videos of your property.
“This can help speed up your claims process by documenting your belongings and their condition,” says Musson.
Board up your windows, and secure outdoor furniture or move it into your garage to prevent it from becoming a flying projectile.
“You should also definitely move your cars to higher ground if you have the opportunity,” says Musson. “Even if you have comprehensive car insurance coverage, your life will be easier if you don’t have to file a claim.”
Unplug your appliances to protect them from power surges, and shut off all utilities, including water, power, and gas to minimize potential damage and hazards during the storm.
Shutting off electricity can prevent electrical fires from damaged wiring, and turning off gas can prevent leaks and explosions if gas lines are compromised, according to Sev Tamayo, owner of Goosehead Insurance Agency in Palm Coast, FL. Shutting off the main water supply can help prevent flooding from burst pipes.
“Check with your local utility company for any specific guidance they may have,” advises Tamayo.
And finally, before you leave, make sure your home is secure and locked.
“Looters look for easy targets,” says Musson. “Locking your doors can put an obstacle in front of them.”