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RVs are fantastic for travel but can be quite vulnerable in bad weather. While a traditional house is generally safer during storms, RVs have the advantage of being mobile. This mobility is especially useful during hurricane season, which coincides with peak RV travel time.
Hurricane season runs from June through November, the same period many RVers hit the road. This overlap means RVers must be ready to move quickly if a storm approaches. Hurricanes mostly affect the southeastern United States, with states like Florida, Texas, Louisiana, and the Carolinas being the most at risk.
Preparing for a Hurricane
Before a hurricane hits, there are several steps RVers should take:
- Fill Up on Fuel: As soon as a hurricane watch is announced, make sure your RV and generator tanks are full.
- Stock Up on Supplies: Head to the supermarket for bottled water and enough food to last through the evacuation.
- Battery Backup: Ensure your RV batteries are fully charged and have backup power sources like portable battery packs or generators.
- Follow Local Advisories: If local officials suggest evacuation, unhook and leave immediately. Traffic can become a nightmare if you wait too long.
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on weather updates using news stations, apps, a NOAA weather radio, and freeway emergency signs.
- Avoid Flooded Roads: If you encounter standing water, slow down. Water can reduce brake effectiveness.
- Carry Paper Maps: In heavy traffic, cell towers might get overwhelmed, disrupting GPS signals. Paper maps are a reliable backup.
- Check Insurance Coverage: Review your RV insurance policy to make sure you are covered for hurricane-related damages. Keep your insurance documents handy.
Protecting Your RV
If you can’t leave the area, there are ways to protect your RV:
- Remove Loose Items: Secure or store away all loose items outside your RV, such as chairs, tables, and decorations, to prevent them from becoming dangerous projectiles.
- Close All Vents and Windows: Ensure all vents and windows are securely closed to prevent water from entering your RV.
- Secure Windows: Use Plylox clips and plywood to cover your windows, protecting them from flying debris.
- Stabilize Your RV: Deploy stabilizer jacks and wheel chocks to keep your RV steady.
- Document Contents: Take a video of everything inside your RV for insurance purposes.
- Seek Shelter: Do not stay in your RV during the storm. Find a designated shelter for safety.
Being prepared and acting quickly can make all the difference during hurricane season. Staying informed and taking precautionary measures help keep you and your RV safe.
Great tips! Having lived in Florida, I’m no stranger to hurricanes. I would add to keep up with the storm by using a hurricane tracker app on your phone. It’s also recommended to leave 72 hours before the hurricane hits to stay ahead of evacuation traffic. Aim to evacuate to a destination about an hour or so outside the hurricane’s path, depending on its strength and direction.
If the hurricane has hit, do not attempt to take your RV. You will likely face ridiculous traffic and strong winds, making travel dangerous. Like Tory said, make sure your RV is insured, as it can be replaced (you can’t be). Instead, take important documents like insurance papers, extra cash if possible, pets, water, and nonperishable food with you.
Heading to FL this summer. Good to know! Thanks both of you!
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