As nearly everyone knows, a straight-line wind storm, known as a Derecho raged through Iowa on August 10th, 2020. The Derecho destroyed homes, businesses, property, even some people's entire lives. I consistently saw posts and stories on social media and the news for 2 weeks after the storm of people still without power, needing food, water, shelter, etc.
If you research these storms, they appear to be fairly common in Iowa, one source says every .75 - 4 years. These storms could, in theory, be happening two to three times a year. Even if the storm is not a Derecho, Iowa and the Midwest are no stranger to storms, tornadoes and floods. Which leaves me wondering, why are so many without basic essentials for even a couple of days?
Before getting into the content, let me be clear, I know there are people who struggle to pay the bills every month and can barely get by. The services that are out there from the state, cities and organizations are for those people. There are also people who are in that situation who are just irresponsible with finances and will hopefully take this post to heart.
Before continuing, ask yourself if you want to be prepared for the next Derecho, tornado, flood or any other catastrophic event that happens to you, your family, and your home. If you do, continue reading. If you want to post about it on Facebook and are not prepared to potentially change your ways then no need.
The major needs from this storm listed above (power, food, water, shelter, clothing) are things you should be preparing for long in advance. That time is now. Not tomorrow, not when you see the next storm coming, now.
Let's start with the most essential:
Water - You should ideally have 1 gallon/person/day of water for a disaster. You should have a two week supply. Add an additional gallon per dog depending on size.
Food - A two week supply of carb and protein-rich foods.
Clothing - Extra clothing perhaps in a sealed bag or container in an area likely to not be destroyed (such as a basement).
Power- Consider a generator if you need power.
Shelter - A back-up location if your home is destroyed.
Additionally, an extra supply of medications and extra cash.
This is the bare minimum of the supplies you should stock in case of an event like a Derecho.
It won't be fun, but you could survive. These things cost money. However much you want to allot and start saving will determine how comfortable and prepared you are when, not if, another catastrophic event occurs.
I urge you to begin preparing now, when the devastation is fresh in your mind and you know first-hand how bad it is being unprepared with no supplies. Begin setting aside extra money every month. Begin buying a case a water every time you go to the grocery store. Start small and think of this as a one day supply for everyone, then a three day supply and build to two weeks. The supplies will build up over time, I promise.
If you have any questions, want preparedness lists or help creating your own plan please reach out.
Braxton Morrison
Owner | Survive Today LLC