Hurricane Preparedness: What You Need To Know

The Outer Banks is a beautiful and popular summer vacation destination. However, with our unique positioning along the coast, this makes us vulnerable to hurricanes during hurricane season. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, here are a few quick tips you need to know should a hurricane pass through while you’re here. For more in depth information, visit the Resort Realty hurricane information page.

Hurricane Season

Hurricane season beings on June 1st and ends November 30th. Hurricane season includes tropical storms and tropical depressions. Hurricanes can form in May and December but it is very rare. Storms rate from tropical depressions, tropical storm, and category 1-5 hurricanes.

What to do when a hurricane is Expected

A hurricane watch means hurricane conditions are possible in the area and are issued 48 hours before expected storm arrival. A hurricane warning means a hurricane is expected in the affected area and is issued 36 hours in advance of the storm.  Buying travel insurance is highly advised when booking your stay during the Hurricane Season. When a hurricane or tropical storm threatens the Outer Banks, Resort Realty will notify you. For all guests, you should start planning and organizing for a possible evacuation. When planning your evacuation you should:

Plan Your Evacuation Route

Should a mandatory evacuation for visitors take place, you can either head inland and stay at a hotel or return back home. Make sure you know the best plan to leave the Outer Banks. Before you leave, make sure you have all needed medications, gas, etc. When the storm passes, you can call our office to find out if you can return and finish the rest of your vacation.

Prepare A Hurricane Kit

The kit should include a flashlight(s), batteries, cash, and first aid supplies. You can find more hurricane kit information here.

If You Could Not Evacuate

If the storm is imminent and you absolutely could not evacuate the Outer Banks, stay indoors. Stay away from all windows just in case and flying debris break glass. Make sure you have supplies from your hurricane kit plus plenty of bottled water and non-perishable food. Also, make sure your cell phone is charged in the event there is a power outage and to contact family and friends.

Your safety is one of our top priorities here at Resort Realty. For more hurricane information, visit our hurricane page on our website. We wish you a safe season!