10 precautions that you need to take before and during a cyclone

Torrential rains, blustering winds, and terrorising thunderstorms. Cyclones can wreak havoc and, as we have learned from a few bitter experiences in the past, throw the normal life into total jeopardy. Coastal towns and cities, especially, tend to be among the high risk-prone areas when a cyclone barrels towards the coastline. It is important that the residents of these places take a few precautions and stay well prepared to face any consequences that might follow if the cyclone makes an impactful landfall. Here are 10 basic precautions that you need to take before and during a cyclone.

Before the Cyclone:

#1 Ensuring your house’s condition

Make sure that your house is in good condition to withstand gusty winds. Check for any leaks, cracks in the roofs, walls and fix them. Get rid of any loose material that may cause damage in case of strong winds. If required, trim any nearby tree branches that might damage your electricity and telephone lines.

#2 Staying prepared

• Charge your mobile phones, power banks, torches, etc
• Keep some extra sets of fresh batteries, candles, matches, etc
• Store the necessary groceries in advance
• Keep some dry and non-perishable foods (like biscuits, dry fruits) for use in emergency
• Keep an emergency first aid kit in readiness
• Store adequate water if the water supply tends to get restricted

During the Cyclone

#3 Stay inside the house and secure your windows and doors with shutters

#4 Turn off gas and disconnect the electrical appliances to avoid short circuits and damages

#5 Stay updated with the latest cyclone updates and weather forecast reports. Keep monitoring the warnings regularly

#6 Refrain from going to the beach or venturing into the sea

#7 Avoid driving as the roads will be slippery and it would be difficult to control the vehicle against the blowing gusts

#8 Park your vehicles under a solid shelter. Be advised to park them with a hand brake or in gear to guard them securely 

#9 In the case of thunderstorms, stay away from concrete floors and walls as lightning can travel through the metal bars present in them. Also, avoid seeking shelter under isolated objects such as light posts and trees

#10 In case of an official evacuation order, leave immediately and seek shelter elsewhere

Most importantly, do not spread rumours. Refrain from believing in misinformation and do not spread any as it would lead to panic among people.