Forum Discussion

acker1's avatar
acker1
Explorer
Aug 28, 2015

Riding out a hurricane

I am in central Fl. Just got out of hospital 2 days ago. I will probably have to stay put thru the coming hurricane. I am in a state park and all the other volunteers have left for the summer. Been set up since sept to start knee replacements. Since then other med problems have come up and we are still here. I physically won't be able to prepare to leave here.

Any suggestions and how to prep for this event? All slides in? Fill fresh water tank? Remove window covers? etc.

Thanks
DICK

on edit: levelers up or down?
  • Is it possible to go to a motel during the storm? You may be safer and more comfortable.

    Or, can you get someone to move your rig to a safer location?
  • Having gone through extremely high winds, some in the area reported 60mph at the Alvord Desert in Oregon I'd say get some help and move your RV next to a building at the least. Call the police non-emergency number and see if they have suggestions.

    The storm came up on us with no warning had no time to position our coach, but we pulled slides in and thankfully we'd been setup in a U formation with 2 other RVs and we knew at the worst we'd be pushed against them and no like we'd tip over. Scared the daylights out of me as we waited the storm out in the dark over night. Next morning we broke camp, heard that a church in the area lost it's entire roof. I never want to go through that again.
  • Chances are slim that it would be hurricane force winds in Central Florida even in direct path from the coast. If you can move the coach go to a clearing. Big parking lots are best. If you can, position yourself leeward side of a building. OR second best choice face the coach into the wind. They will handle 75 mile and hour winds from the front. Your safety is most important!!! Do what you can for the coach but get yourself and loved ones to secure shelter.. We love right on the east coast of South Florida and we're still most optimistic this will be a non-event.
  • So far it looks like it will "only" be 75-85mph winds and concentrated toward the east coast, but that could change. If it makes it as far inland as you are, wind damage and falling tree limbs will be the most worry. If you don't have a weather radio, get one with battery backup. Most state parks will evacuate even with tropical storms so have a plan on where to seek shelter. Make sure you have your kit packed and by the door. Remember to get your meds. I would also take blankets and pillows unless you're going to a hotel.
    As others have advised, put slides in, fill fresh water tank, make sure you have fuel. List below of other things:
    Non-perishable food, such as energy bars
    Batteries
    Cellphone charger
    LED flashlight
    Lighter
    First aid kit
    1 gallon of water for every member of the family for drinking. (use your onboard tank for toilet and bathing)
  • Naio's avatar
    Naio
    Explorer II
    I think what the OP is saying is that he cannot move his rig at all.

    OP,does the state park you are at have any buildings you have access to that are more solid than your RV? A bath house made out of concrete block for example? It might be good to set up in there with lawn chairs blankets, food, entertainment, etc. If everyone is gone there will be no one to mind. Good luck!
  • Everything that has been mentioned, but prior to the storm find a closed strip mall, walmart, sams club, etc. Park on the side of the building away from the wind. It will give you protection from wind and flying debris and you don't have to worry about trees falling on you. IF it moves inland and the eye crosses over you. Change sides as the winds and rain will change. You can move around as necessary.
  • What coach we are talking about?
    I would put the engine side towards predicted winds.
    Don't think I would like to raise it on jacks, abut having them touching the ground might give you better comfort.
    Houses put plywood over the windows. You might try to strap some?
  • Probably the storm will go up the east coast and be minimal but get ready anyway.

    Fill your water tank, empty your black and grey tanks, have plenty of generator fuel; expect no services for several days. Note that you may get evacuated from the park.

    Window covers and all canvas in, everything outside put away and levelers down. Look up to see if maybe you need to move to another site that doesn't have overhanging limbs or nearby tall pine trees.

    Do all this by Sunday evening. Good luck!
  • I've never had to prepare for a hurricane. I just want to wish you the BEST of luck!!!! Gosh, you'd had a plate full, haven't you. Prayers for your safety. Please keep us posted!