Hurricane warnings are know through televisions, radios, newspapers and other communication medias. In you know about the hurricane warning in your area or the area where you are planning to travel, it is better to postpone your schedule until the authorities declare it is safe to travel. But if you are stuck in a hurricane while driving, then these tips will help you stay safe.
Slow down: Driving slowly is the thumb rule for any natural disaster. During hurricanes the water either flows on the road or stands still, the rain drops will cause limited visibility to the driver, the water on the road will spray on your vehicle when other vehicles are passing nearby to your vehicle. If you are on the highway or in the city, the roads will be flooded with heavy traffic, the lights and signals may not work due to the damage caused by hurricane. These things are an obstacle while driving. Therefore, it is better to drive slowly during hurricanes.
Don’t drive through flood streets and standing water: Debris or potholes will hide under the water. They can damage your vehicle. Tires may puncture. The flow of water will be high and generally it is large in size. If you failed to estimate the water level your car may either sink or float along with the water.
Don’t start wet engine: If the car is parked in a flooded water and the engine has become wet, do not start the vehicle immediately. It will cause a serious damage to the engine.
Careful with brakes: Wet brakes will take little longer time to stop the vehicle. After your car is out of the water, apply the brakes lightly and continue for a few more attempts. It will make your vehicle’s brakes dry and it will come back to normal position.
Don’t drive under the fallen trees: Some trees fall partially and stand with a support of nearby structures or other trees. They may separate from their base, but stand with the support, in these cases do not attempt to drive under such trees unless you are confident enough because they may fall anytime.
Don’t drive under fallen power lines: Fallen power lines are very dangerous. It is difficult to decide by looking at them whether they have power or not. If the power lines fall on the car, stay in car don’t get down form car. If possible move forward or call for emergency services or the local authorities for help.
Turn on the lights: Use low beam headlights even if it is daytime. It will make your car more visible at front. If the rain is heavy turn on the fog lights of your vehicle.
Be prepared for wind: Hurricane winds can change the directions violently. Generally big vehicles are more vulnerable for wind. So keep distance with big vehicles like trucks, buses, etc.
If you are aware of an hurricane while traveling pack few things like medicines, food, water, flashlight, batteries, etc. Make sure the fuel tank is full. Keep the cellphone battery fully charged. Find the best alternative ways to reach the destination. Take decisions while traveling as per the communication from local authorities or radios or any other channel of communication.