In brief
As extreme weather becomes more frequent, having a well-prepared go bag can be life-saving.
In recent years, the frequency of extreme weather events has escalated, as evidenced by Hurricane Helene's devastating reach in Asheville, North Carolina, November wildfires across New York and New Jersey, and the rapid outbreak of fires in Malibu. A staggering study by YouGov reveals that nearly 20% of Americans have faced the disruption of evacuating their homes due to severe weather conditions. This growing concern emphasizes the need for preparedness against unexpected natural disasters, including hurricanes, flash floods, tornadoes, and wildfires.Experts recommend creating a go bag—an emergency kit tailored for extreme weather events—that you can conveniently store at home or in your vehicle. The Federal Emergency Management Agency advises a go bag to contain supplies for at least 72 hours, allowing you to swiftly evacuate without the stress of deciding what to bring. "If you don’t take the time to address these questions before a disaster strikes, you’ll be hard pressed to do so in the rush of a potential crisis," cautioned Stephanie Fox, a representative from the American Red Cross.What should you include in your 72-hour extreme-weather go bag? After reviewing guidelines from FEMA, the American Red Cross, and various local agencies, we have put together a list of essential items. Our recommendations, many of which are available for under $25, combine durable necessities suitable for long-term storage, such as in the corner of a closet or the trunk of a vehicle. Experts also recommend assessing and updating your go bag at least once a year to ensure everything is operational and within expiration dates, ensuring you’re always prepared for whatever nature throws your way.
