Storm Awareness and Preventative Measures on the Gulf Coast

As a real estate advisor and longtime resident of the Gulf Coast, I’ve experienced the full range of weather our area can deliver. From tranquil sunny days to thunderstorms, hurricanes, tornadoes, cold snaps, and the occasional snowstorm, being prepared is vital. I’ve created this section on my website to help you protect your home, stay safe during severe weather, and navigate storms with confidence.

Types of Storms We Experience

Our Gulf Coast weather can shift quickly, and knowing what to expect is half the battle. Here’s what we typically face:

• Thunderstorms: Sudden and intense, these can bring heavy rain, strong winds, and dangerous lightning.
• Tornadoes: Less common than in the Midwest, but they can develop rapidly during severe weather events.
• Hurricanes: The most significant threat, with high winds, storm surges, and flooding. The season typically runs from June to November.
• Cold Snaps: Freezing temperatures can cause damage to pipes and vegetation.
• Snow Storms: Rare but possible, snow or ice can temporarily disrupt our mild winters.

Preparing for Storms

Being proactive can save you time, money, and stress. Below are my key recommendations for storm preparedness:

Home and Property Preparation

• Secure Outdoor Items: Bring in grills, deck furniture, potted plants, and lightweight items that could become projectiles in high winds.
• Install Hurricane Shutters: These protect windows and glass doors from flying debris. Plywood can also work in a pinch.
• Protect Pool and Well Pumps: Turn off and cover pool pumps to prevent debris damage. Seal well pumps to avoid contamination.
• Insulate Pipes and Faucets: For freezing weather, insulate outdoor pipes and spigots, and let indoor faucets drip to prevent burst pipes.
• Reinforce Glass: Install shatter-resistant film on windows for added protection.

Emergency Kit Essentials

Having a well-stocked emergency kit is critical. Here’s what I recommend including:

• Water: At least one gallon per person per day for three to seven days.
• Food: Non-perishable items like canned goods, protein bars, peanut butter, and dry snacks.
• First Aid Supplies: Bandages, antiseptics, medications, and any personal prescriptions.
• Tools and Equipment: Flashlights, extra batteries, a multi-tool, duct tape, and a weather radio.
• Power Sources: A portable phone charger or power bank, and a generator for extended outages.
• Personal Items: Extra clothing, sturdy shoes, blankets, hygiene products, and pet supplies.
• Important Documents: Copies of IDs, insurance policies, and medical records in a waterproof bag.
• Emergency Cash: ATMs may be out of service.
• Special Items: Baby formula, diapers, or any other necessary family-specific supplies.

Staying Informed During a Storm

Knowing what’s happening in real time is crucial. Here are some ways to stay updated:

• Local Alerts: Sign up for emergency notifications through the Baldwin County Emergency Management Agency or download apps like FEMA, NOAA Weather Radar, or MyRadar.
• Text Alerts: Many counties have text-based services for weather alerts, road closures, and evacuation updates.
• Social Media: Follow local agencies like the Baldwin County EMA, Alabama DOT, and Gulf Shores and Orange Beach city pages for real-time updates.
• Weather Radios: Keep a battery-operated NOAA weather radio on hand.
• Local News: TV and radio stations like WKRG and WALA often provide reliable storm coverage and road closure details.

Evacuation Plans

When it comes to hurricanes and severe weather, evacuation orders can happen quickly. Have a plan in place to leave safely:

• Know Your Zone: Baldwin County has specific evacuation zones; find yours in advance.
• Plan Routes: Familiarize yourself with primary and secondary evacuation routes. Keep a paper map in case GPS is unavailable.
• Pack Smart: Prepare a “go bag” with essentials like your emergency kit, clothing, and important documents.

Post-Storm Checklist

After the storm, safety is still key:

• Inspect for Damage: Check your roof, siding, windows, and outdoor equipment. Document damage with photos for insurance purposes.
• Check Utilities: Avoid downed power lines and contact your utility provider to report outages.
• Lend a Hand: If you’re able, check on neighbors and assist as needed.

In Baldwin County, Orange Beach, and Gulf Shores, Alabama, there are several resources available to stay informed about extreme storms, road closures, and town updates:

Emergency Alert Systems

1. Baldwin County Emergency Management Agency (EMA)

• Website: Baldwin County EMA

• Alert Baldwin: A notification system that sends alerts via text, email, or voice for severe weather, road closures, and emergencies. Residents can sign up on their website.

2. City of Orange Beach

• Alert Notifications: The city provides emergency alerts and updates through its website and social media channels. You can sign up for their alerts on the Orange Beach website.

3. City of Gulf Shores

• Everbridge Notification System: Gulf Shores uses this platform to send emergency notifications. Sign up on the City of Gulf Shores website.

4. NOAA Weather Radio

• Tune in to NOAA Weather Radio for real-time severe weather alerts specific to Baldwin County.

Local News and Weather Apps

• WKRG News 5 and FOX10 News: Local TV stations provide updates on storms, road closures, and municipal decisions.

• Weather apps such as Weather Channel, AccuWeather, or MyRadar often have location-specific alerts for storms and extreme weather.

Social Media Channels

1. Baldwin County EMA Facebook/Twitter: Regular updates on weather and road conditions.

2. Orange Beach Police Department and Gulf Shores Police Department: Follow their social media pages for live updates on road closures and re-openings.

Road Closures

• ALGO Traffic (algotraffic.com): A real-time traffic and road condition map for Alabama, including Baldwin County. It includes storm-related road closures and updates.

• Local police department pages and the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office also post road closure information.

Storm and Town Reopening Updates

• City of Orange Beach: Updates on closures and reopenings are shared on their website and social media platforms.

• City of Gulf Shores: Similar updates are available on the Gulf Shores website and through their alert system.

• Baldwin County EMA: Provides broader updates on county-wide storm recovery efforts and town reopening timelines.

Contact Hotlines

• Baldwin County EMA: (251) 972-6807

• Orange Beach Citizen Information Line: Typically activated during emergencies. The number is shared on the city’s website and social media.

• Gulf Shores Emergency Line: (251) 968-2425

Final Thoughts

Living on the Gulf Coast means enjoying a beautiful, vibrant lifestyle, but preparation for storms is a must. By taking these steps, you’ll protect your home, loved ones, and peace of mind. If you have questions about storm-proofing your property, need recommendations for contractors, or are considering a move to the area, I’m here to help.

Meredith Amon is a local real estate advisor, licensed in Alabama and Florida. She specializes in helping buyers and sellers navigate the buying and selling of homes along the Gulf Coast.