A few hours of trauma seemed like a few days when you had to endure a Category 4 hurricane. The never-ending screaming of the wind and the sound of the rapid raindrops elevate one’s stress levels. My anxiety began from I became aware that there was a hurricane warning and I began preparing. During the hurricane, I constantly paced the floor and made numerous trips to check on rooms in the house just to ensure all was well. There were moments when the sound of the wind was unbelievably loud and frightening. Fortunately, I didn’t have to worry about lightning because there was none.
Electricity and WiFi were long gone, and data access was nonexistent. Hurricane Beryl was happening it is the second named storm, the first hurricane, as the first major hurricane of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season. It is also the earliest-forming Category 5 Atlantic hurricane on record, usually June and July are the most unlikely months to get a Category 5 hurricane. The official hurricane season in the Caribbean region begins on the first of June and lasts through November 30, with most hurricanes happening during August and September. They say there is a thin line between sanity and insanity it is only when one experiences severe stress that one knows their mental strength, hurricanes test many folk’s mental strength.
Potential danger
Dangerous hurricanes can cause several potential dangers to life and property. Hurricanes impact the natural surroundings along a coast beach, sand is disrupted, and sea levels rise causing floods. Storm surge can destroy anything that’s in its path including homes. Strong winds can topple trees usually, the amount of damage that occurs depends on the strength of the storm. Hurricane is known to cause heavy rain which causes areas to be flooded, and farmers to lose livestock and crops. People at times have to climb to the roof of their homes to save themselves from drowning. It is best to protect yourself from floodwaters as it may have increased bacterial concentrations.
Never underestimate the destruction that a hurricane can cause, you can lose your home in a split second. The impact of a hurricane can cause people to be without electricity and water for a very long time, it also causes people to be marooned because bridges and roads are destroyed.
Eco-friendly preparation
Since there is not much we can do to prevent hurricanes we must have a sustainable plan. Do not purchase cases of plastic bottled water instead ensure that you have a reusable water bottle so you can refill it. Think biodegradable, therefore always search for biodegradable options for items that are needed such as gloves, wipes, and garbage bags. Ensure each member of the household has organic cotton washrags. Stock food that does not require cooking especially for persons with electric stoves, it is not unusual not to have electricity during and after a hurricane.
Solar lights and rechargeable batteries are essential. Ensure that you place rechargeable wall lights at strategic points so your space can be adequately lit. Stock up on biodegradable disposable eating containers, folk, cups, and spoons, there might not be adequate water to wash dishes. Purchase bed linen made from organic cotton this will keep you cooler especially when there is no air conditioner. Battery-operated fans are available but not all use rechargeable batteries. Going fully solar would be the best option however, the initial setup cost can be costly even though it is worth it.
Be intentional about knowing your neighbours, and develop meaningful bonds so you can provide support for each other. Stay connected with family and friends during this stressful period even if it is by way of electronic devices because some persons might be living overseas. Living through a dangerous hurricane can cause anxiety and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Remember that this experience shall pass so have a balanced meal throughout the hurricane and stay healthy.
HURRICANES CAN CAUSE SEVERAL POTENTIAL DANGER TO LIFE AND PROPERTY
