How you can protect yourself in the event of a weather disaster Kayleigh Thomas — WWLP

In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, devastation grows by the hour, with at least 128 people dead and floodwaters receding. And while hurricanes of this magnitude don’t make their way to western Massachusetts often it’s important to be prepared for a weather disaster. 22News has what steps you should take.

CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) – In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, devastation grows by the hour, with at least 128 people dead and floodwaters receding and while hurricanes of this magnitude don’t make their way to western Massachusetts often it’s important to be prepared for a weather disaster. 22News has what steps you should take.

Normally peak hurricane season is September, but experts say with conditions shifting and warmer temperatures globally, we might see it into November, maybe even December.
And now is the time to make sure you’re prepared all year long.

“Prayers go out to North Carolina, I have family in Florida, Georgia and you know just hope and pray for the best,” said Damiaan Dunkley of Springfield.

The southeastern US is reeling from Hurricane Helene..which caused severe damage and left many stranded or trapped by floodwaters. While there are no hurricanes currently posing a threat to the Northeast, the potential remains with warm air and ocean temperatures.

“We actually have a couple of tropical systems right now just off the coast, not close enough to affect us here in Massachusetts, but just something to look out for and we’ve had many hurricanes here in the past so seeing them late in the year definitely not out of the question,” said 22News Storm Team, Jack WU.

The American Red Cross recommends having an evacuation plan in case of any unforeseen weather disaster. “Know what you’re going to do if your family doesn’t all reside with you and have a meet-up location,” said American Red Cross of Massachusetts Communications Manager, Jeff Hall.

He also says to have a survival kit ready. Inside the kit should include copies of personal documents like birth certificates and social security cards, as well as cell phone chargers, a flashlight with extra batteries, and medications you may need.

“It’s really about getting through the initial storm and then it’s about figuring what the next few weeks after that look like, you know if people want to stock up on shelf-stable foods and water is always important to have,” said Hall.

As of today, six hurricanes have formed since June 1st, including Hurricane Helene. Nearly 600 American Red Cross volunteers, including 20 from Massachusetts are helping Hurricane Helene victims.

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