How to Get Ready for a Hurricane When You Have Diabetes 

If you live in a place where hurricanes occur,  , it is important to be prepared—especially if you have diabetes. Hurricanes can cause power outages, flooding, and road closures, which can make it hard to get the medicine, food, and care you need. Here is how to stay safe. 

Where Hurricanes Usually Happen 

Hurricanes mostly affect states along the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. This includes Florida, Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, and Puerto Rico. Hurricanes are known to hit the mid-Atlantic and even the New England states as well.  

When Is Hurricane Season? 

Hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, but the most active months are August through October. Typically, hurricanes are slow moving storms that meteorologists can measure and track days in advance of actual landfall. That said, for individuals living with diabetes, preparation before a storm is predicted is the best option.  

How to Get Ready: A Diabetes Hurricane Checklist 

Here is a checklist to help you prepare for a hurricane if you have diabetes: 

Medicine and Supplies 

• Maintain at least two (2) weeks of insulin and other medications. 

• Pack extra syringes, test strips, lancets, alcohol wipes, and glucose tablets. 

• If you use an insulin pump or CGM, bring extra batteries, sensors, and chargers. 

• Store insulin in a cool bag or cooler in case the power goes out. 

Food and Drinks 

• Stock up on nonperishable foods like peanut butter, crackers, and tuna. (Do not forget a manual can opener!) 

• Have a supply of glucose tablets, juice boxes, or hard candy in case of low blood sugar. 

• Keep 5 to 10 jugs of water available in case water supplies are compromised. 

Important Info  

• Write down your medication list, dosages, and emergency contacts. 

• Bring your doctor’s name and phone number. 

• Keep your health insurance card and a copy of your ID with you. 

Take pictures of all of these items so that you have a backup on your phone! 
 
Go Bag (Evacuation Kit) 

• Pack all your supplies in a waterproof bag or backpack. 

• Include a flashlight, batteries, phone charger, and first-aid kit. 

• Bring bold extra clothes, a blanket, and a small cooler, if needed, for insulin. 

During and After the Storm 

• Check your blood sugar more often. Stress and new routines can affect your glucose levels. 

• Eat regularly and drink water, even if you are not very hungry or thirsty. 

Use your supplies wisely in case you cannot get more for a while.

No Need to Get Swept Away 

Being prepared helps you stay safe and healthy during a hurricane. Do not wait until a storm comes. Start getting ready today! And as always, talk to your care team! 

Author: Samantha Poe, Pharm.D.   Living Linked Clinical Pharmacist | CCS Health     

This site is for educational purposes only. Talk to your doctor or healthcare provider before making any decisions about your health.