Storm Preparation for RVers and Campers - How to Prepare

From Outdoorsy.com - by Lisa Brown

What to Do Before a Storm

If you find yourself driving your RV while a potential storm is approaching, the most important thing is to always have a plan of action.

As soon as you arrive at your campsite, you should research the closest storm shelter and create an evacuation plan.  

When the weather radio or television stations post ‘Watch’ (i.e. Tornado Watch, Hurricane Watch, etc.), it’s a good idea to get your Go Bag ready, have jackets ready and put your shoes on (not flip flops!).

When the local authorities post ‘Warning’ (i.e. Tornado Warning, Hurricane Warning, etc.), local sirens will sound off.  You should immediately relocate your family and pets to the closest storm shelter. At campgrounds and RV parks, they are usually at brick-built bath houses and community rooms.  

4 Stages of Weather Warnings You Should Know About

Now, let’s talk about WEATHER STAGES:

• WEATHER OUTLOOK: Issued when a hazardous weather event is ‘possible’ in the next week. Outlooks are intended to raise awareness of the potential for significant weather that could threaten life or property.
• WEATHER ADVISORY:  Issued when hazardous weather event will be occurring, imminent or likely.  Advisories are for less serious conditions than warnings that cause significant inconvenience and if caution is not exercised, could threaten life or property.
• WEATHER WATCH:  Issued when the risk of hazardous weather event has increased significantly but its occurrence, location or timing is still uncertain.  A Watch means that hazardous weather is possible.  You should have a plan of action in case a storm threatens.  You should listen for information and possible warnings especially when planning travel or outdoor activities.
• WEATHER WARNING:  Issued when a hazardous weather event is occurring, imminent or likely.  A warning means weather conditions pose a threat to life or property.  People in the path of the storm need to take protective action.

If You’re Caught in a Storm

If you are on the road driving, drive cautiously to the nearest exit safely and find a large sturdy building to shelter yourselves in.

Weather can change very quickly and if you’re not aware of its changes, it can catch you and your family off guard. Do not attempt to drive through high water, blizzards or flash floods.

Brief Check-List for Staying Safe Amidst a Disaster

Here’s a good step-by-step reference guide should you be faced with weather emergencies.

If you have +24 hours notice of impending detrimental weather:

• Evaluate your surroundings.
• Tune into local weather forecast stations and the National Weather Service
• Relocate immediately if you’re near a river, ocean, washes or flash flood area. Seek higher ground.
• Pack your Go Bag
• Have sturdy shoes and jackets readily available.
• Stow gear that’s outside (i.e. camp chairs, tables, grill, fire pit, etc.)
• Let your family know where you are or where you will be headed.
• Charge all electronics and battery banks.
• Refuel vehicles and generator.
• Fill water tank (at least 1/3) and empty gray/black tanks
• Withdraw cash from an ATM.
• Pack extra water in your GO VEHICLE.
• Grab snacks or lunch to go.

If you cannot relocate your RV or if you have less than 1-hour notice, here’s what you can do:

• STAY CALM
• Locate the closest storm shelter and prepare to go.
• Tune into local weather forecast stations and the National Weather Service.
• All members of your party should have sturdy shoes on.  Skip the flip flops; you may return to debris fields.
• Jackets should be readily available.
• Emergency/Evacuation Go Bag (listed below) should be packed and at the door ready to go or in your vehicle.
• Portable kennels should be in your vehicle and leashes should be ready for your pets.
• Each member of your party should make a quick bathroom visit.
• If you have time, secure outdoor gear (chairs, grill, tent, etc.)
• Take your pet(s) for a potty break.