In a situation like Hurricane, one should avoid driving during the storm due to the predictions of intense levels of wind speeds as high as 170mph. That is going to really start knocking over trees and power lines. Anyone who does choose to drive that high is also told to drive carefully, with consideration for the severity of the hurricane at hand. They should go early and make sure they have enough gas to get out of town before the storm gets too bad. It is best just to stay home and shelter with family and neighbors.
As Hurricane is about to touch down, people need to make the decision to either evacuate or stay. If an individual decides or is ordered to evacuate from their home or business, it may be a wise decision to move a car they would want later to a safe facility nearby. There has been debate on this topic as many say that a car should not move. However, if one thinks it might be wise, if possible, and enough time is available, they should consider it.
It’s Hurricane Season: What Should You Do To Keep Your Car Protected?
Hurricane season is upon us, and with it comes the fear of what could happen if a hurricane were to hit your area. Even if you’re not in an area that’s expected to be hit, you can still experience flooding from other sources like rainstorms and thunderstorms.
Forecasters at Colorado State University predict that a major hurricane will strike the U.S. coastline by the end of the 2022 storm season, which ends on November 30. Three tropical storms have already formed so far this year, with a total of 20 expected before the season ends.
If you live in an area that is susceptible to hurricanes, you should take some basic steps to ensure that your car is protected during a storm. Here are some tips for keeping your car safe during this season:
Check your insurance coverage
You may need additional coverage for damage caused by a storm. Check with your agent or company about adding or increasing your policy limits.
If you are lucky enough to have comprehensive coverage on your policy, it may also include protection against flooding or water damage from any source other than a vehicle itself. This may help protect against water damage caused by flooding from nearby rivers or streams during heavy rains after an extreme weather event.
Keep important documents handy
If you’re going to evacuate your home or business during a hurricane or other severe weather event, keep important documents like insurance papers, registration information, and vehicle titles in an easily accessible spot in your car.
Park your car in a garage or on higher ground if possible
It’s important to note that there are many different types of storms and they can have varying effects on your vehicle. For example, if you live in an area where flooding is a concern, it’s important to have a plan for keeping your car above water levels. If you live in an area prone to high winds, it’s important to be aware of the risks associated with flying debris.
Hurricanes can also knock down trees and power lines, so it’s best to store your car in a garage or parking lot that is free from these hazards. If you don’t have access to such a spot, park your car in an open area with at least 30 feet of clearance between it and anything that could fall on top of it during a storm.
Keep gas tank full
Taking on extra fuel before a storm hits can help prevent running out of gas which can be dangerous during power outages after a storm passes through an area. It’s also good practice to fill up as soon as possible after power returns so that you’re not stranded on the road needing gas while waiting for your tank to refill later in the day when lines form at stations with working pumps, especially if they’re automated.
Check tire pressure and condition
You don’t want to get caught driving with underinflated tires during a storm. Underinflated tires will overheat and blow out easily, leaving you stranded on the side of the road.
Tire pressure can drop by as much as 1 pound per square inch (PSI) for every 10 degrees Fahrenheit drop in temperature. Low tire pressure can cause uneven tread wear, which can lead to premature tire failure. If you notice any of these symptoms, get new tires right away or have them repaired.
Inspect your vehicle for leaks and cracks in the body
Hurricanes often cause flooding, which can lead to water damage on your car’s floorboards or undercarriage. Check carefully for leaks around the trunk or doors of your vehicle, and look for any cracks in the body of the car. If there are any leaks or cracks present, let them dry out before driving your car again. Otherwise, you could end up with an expensive repair bill after the flooding season is over.
Have emergency supplies ready in your car
Your kit should include items such as flashlights, batteries, first aid supplies, and other items that can come in handy during an emergency situation. Be sure to keep it in a place where it won’t get wet if there is flooding or rain associated with the storm.
Drive carefully in flooded areas
If you encounter a flooded area, drive slowly and carefully—especially if you’re in a low-slung vehicle. The water may be deeper than it looks, and other drivers could be distracted by trying to avoid puddles on the road.
If your car gets stuck in deep water, don’t try to push it out or start it up again. Turn off the engine and remove any items from the trunk or back seat that might float away if the vehicle becomes submerged. Then get out as quickly as possible before the water rises further and begins pouring into your car through open windows and doors.
Invest in a high-quality car cover
Car covers come in all shapes and sizes, but they all serve the same purpose: to protect your vehicle from the elements. A good car cover is made out of durable materials like polypropylene or polyester that won’t tear apart in strong winds or heavy rainstorms. It should also be made from breathable material so that it doesn’t trap heat inside your vehicle and cause damage over time.
With ClimaGuard TPE, you can be safe in the knowledge that your car is protected against flood water damage. ClimaGuard’s product is designed to be used by one person and comes with anchor straps that ensure your car stays secure during storms, or when water levels rise during heavy rainfall.
Key Takeaway
Your car is a valuable possession, and hurricane season is the perfect time to take preventative measures to protect your car from the stormy elements. Be sure to take a look at the steps above, and make sure to take action accordingly. It won’t hurt to be prepared at any time of the year, but it’s especially helpful during hurricanes given their devastating potential.