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NC Storm Prep Checklist: What to Do Before Hurricane Season

Admiral Energy TeamJanuary 10, 2025 3 min read

NC Storm Prep Checklist

North Carolina sits in one of the most active hurricane corridors on the East Coast. We average 2-4 tropical impacts per year, and even "minor" storms can knock out power for days.

This isn't a scare tactic — it's a reality check. Here's what to do about it.

Before the Season (March – May)

  • [ ] Review your insurance. Know your deductible and what's covered for wind vs. flood damage. Standard homeowners insurance does NOT cover flooding.
  • [ ] Trim trees near power lines and your home. Dead branches become projectiles in 60mph winds.
  • [ ] Test your power backup. If you have a generator or portable power station, fire it up. Make sure it works and you have fuel/solar panels ready.
  • [ ] Stock your emergency kit. Water (1 gallon per person per day × 3 days), non-perishable food, first aid, flashlights, battery radio, medications.
  • [ ] Download the ReadyNC app. Real-time storm tracking, evacuation routes, and shelter locations.

When a Storm Watch Is Issued

  • [ ] Charge everything. Phones, laptops, power stations, battery packs.
  • [ ] Fill bathtubs with water for flushing toilets if water pressure drops.
  • [ ] Move vehicles away from trees. Park in a garage if possible.
  • [ ] Bring in outdoor furniture, grills, and decorations.
  • [ ] Photograph your home and possessions for insurance documentation.

During the Storm

  • Stay indoors, away from windows.
  • If power goes out, switch to your backup power system.
  • Avoid opening the refrigerator — it stays cold for 4+ hours if sealed.
  • Use your portable power station for essential devices only.
  • Monitor weather radio or phone alerts (conserve battery).

After the Storm

  • Do NOT touch downed power lines. Call Duke Energy: 1-800-769-3766.
  • Document all damage with photos before cleanup.
  • Run your power station and solar panels to maintain communication.
  • Check on neighbors, especially elderly residents.

The Power Gap

Here's the part most people don't plan for: the gap between when power goes out and when it comes back.

After Hurricane Florence (2018), some NC communities were without power for 10+ days. Even a 48-72 hour outage disrupts everything — food spoilage, medication cooling, communication, work-from-home capability.

A portable power station with a solar panel gives you independence during that gap. No fuel lines, no generator maintenance, no carbon monoxide risk.

Ready to prepare? Browse our portable power lineup or talk to an adviser.