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Jul 04, 2023

Hurricane Idalia: What to do when the power goes out and stays out

As Hurricane Idalia threatens to bring devastating Category 3 (or higher) winds and massive storm surges to the Florida coast Wednesday, widespread power outages are inevitable. "I would prepare to be

As Hurricane Idalia threatens to bring devastating Category 3 (or higher) winds and massive storm surges to the Florida coast Wednesday, widespread power outages are inevitable.

"I would prepare to be without power," Gov. Ron DeSantis said Monday during a press conference about the approaching tropical cyclone. "There is not likely to be a situation where you're not going to lose power at all if you're in the path of this storm. So please take precautions for that."

DeSantis said there are more than 20,000 people who are ready to respond to power outages, with more on the way. And there are currently more than 400,000 gallons of fuel ready to deploy, with "additional assets" expected over the next few days.

Here's how to prepare, with tips from FEMA, the Red Cross and Ready.gov.

A refrigerator will keep food cold for four hours after the power goes out, according to FEMA, and a full freezer will hold its temperature for about 48 hours. Avoid opening the doors as much as possible to keep the cool air in.

"If you are in doubt, monitor temperatures with a thermometer and throw out food if the temperature is 40 degrees or higher," FEMA said on its site.

Live updates on Idalia:Gov. Ron DeSantis gives situation update on rapidly intensifying Hurricane Idalia

If you need power for any medical needs such as devices or refrigerated medications, make a power outage plan. Have alternative power sources ready and check medications to see if they can be stored at higher temperatures.

If you have devices or medication that are critical for your life, talk to your healthcare provider for specific guidelines and consider moving to a shelter or other location with power.

Power outage tracker:Find out how widespread outages are at any given time

Throw out any refrigerated food, especially dairy and meat, that has been exposed to temperatures 40 degrees or higher for two hours or more. Also throw out anything with an unusual odor, color or texture. If you're not sure, toss it.

If the power is out more than a day, safely discard any medications that require refrigeration unless the drug's label says otherwise. Contact your healthcare provider to resupply.

The Red Cross has a checklist to prepare for power outages.