How to Protect Your Health Before, During and After a Hurricane

As hurricane season approaches, many people focus on stocking up on water, batteries, flashlights and nonperishable food. However, according to Stephen Bueno, Pharm.D., emergency medicine pharmacy clinical specialist at Baptist Health South Florida, one of the most important parts of any hurricane preparedness plan is often overlooked: medications and medical supplies.

For people living with chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, heart disease or mental health conditions, medication access can quickly become a serious concern during a storm. Bueno recommends keeping at least a 14-day supply of all maintenance medications on hand and storing them in their original prescription containers. These bottles contain critical information, including dosage instructions and prescribing physician details, which may be needed if medical care is required during or after an emergency.

Patients should also keep an emergency medication kit in a waterproof, airtight container. In addition to prescription medications, it can be helpful to include over-the-counter essentials such as pain relievers, antihistamines and antidiarrheal medications. Following hurricanes, water contamination and other public health challenges can increase the risk of illness.

One important tip is not to wait until a storm is imminent to refill prescriptions. In Florida, when a state of emergency is declared, insurance companies are generally required to waive “refill too soon” restrictions, allowing patients to obtain an emergency supply of many medications. However, some medications, including certain opioid pain medications and ADHD stimulants, may require additional coordination with health care providers.

Patients who depend on electrically powered medical equipment, such as oxygen concentrators, ventilators or home dialysis machines, should have an evacuation and backup power plan well before hurricane season begins. Local special needs programs and shelters may provide support during emergencies, but registration often needs to occur before a storm threatens the area.

Medication storage is another critical concern during power outages. Refrigerated medications, including insulin and some biologic therapies, may need special handling if electricity is lost. While unopened refrigerators generally maintain safe temperatures for only a few hours, insulated coolers with ice packs can help preserve medications for longer. However, patients should avoid allowing medications to come into direct contact with ice, which can damage them.

After the storm passes, health risks continue. Floodwaters often contain sewage, bacteria, chemicals and displaced wildlife, creating a risk for infections and injuries. Even small cuts or scrapes can become serious if exposed to contaminated water. Mold growth can also occur rapidly in damp homes, posing particular dangers for people with asthma or chronic lung disease.

Food and water safety remain important as well. Spoiled food can lead to severe dehydration, especially in vulnerable individuals. Residents under boil-water advisories should follow local recommendations carefully before drinking or using tap water.

Finally, Bueno encourages patients to remember that pharmacists can be valuable resources during disasters. In many emergency situations, pharmacists may be able to provide limited emergency medication supplies when access to health care providers is disrupted.

Preparing your medications and medical records before a storm can be just as important as securing your home. By planning ahead, patients can help protect their health and avoid preventable emergencies when severe weather strikes.