Surviving a Hurricane: Why Staying Put Can Be the Safer Choice

The debate over whether to stay or leave during a hurricane warning is a complex one, often mired in personal circumstances and local conditions. This article explores the reasons why individuals, like myself, opt to shelter in place during extreme weather conditions, despite the risks associated with hurricanes.

The Unique Safety of My Location

I have been through several hurricane warnings, including during Hurricane María in 2017 in Puerto Rico. My experience and the safety measures in place have convinced me that staying put can be a safer choice under certain conditions.

Firstly, my area is relatively safe and free from the main hazards of a hurricane. Unlike coastal areas where storm tide poses the greatest threat, or mountainous regions where landslides are a concern, my location is inland and flat. This eliminates two of the major risks associated with hurricane weather patterns.

The house I inhabit is constructed from concrete, a material widely used in Puerto Rico. These concrete homes, reinforced with hurricane-resistant windows and doors, are virtually unharmed by hurricane-force winds. This structural resilience is a significant factor in deciding to stay indoors during extreme weather conditions.

Understanding the Hazards Beyond Wind

It is important to recognize that wind is not the primary hazard posed by hurricanes. Inland flooding, storm surge, and landslides are often the more significant threats. My location, being inland and situated on a gentle slope, minimizes the risk of flooding. The natural drainage of rainwater ensures that, while there may be localized flooding, the area will drain quickly after the rain has ceased.

The Feasibility of Evacuation

In a small island like Puerto Rico, evacuation is not always a feasible option. Hurricane forecasts have a high degree of variability, making it difficult to predict safe places of refuge. Unlike states in the mainland where people can evacuate to neighboring regions, there are no safe havens within the island itself. This reality necessitates that residents, including me, remain in their homes during a hurricane warning.

The Dorian example is particularly illustrative. Initial forecasts suggested the hurricane would track just offshore, but in a matter of 48 hours, the track shifted dramatically. There is simply no place in Puerto Rico that can be considered safe during a hurricane's approach. The geography of the island, combined with the variability of hurricane tracks, makes it impossible to determine where else one might find safety.

Conclusion

For those living in regions where the hazards of a hurricane are mitigated by factors such as inland location, reinforced structures, and the feasibility of local evacuation, staying put during a hurricane warning may indeed be the safer choice. While the decision to shelter in place requires a thorough understanding of one's local conditions, the safety provided by sturdy construction and the practical realities of evacuation in a confined island setting support this approach.

Remember, the decision to stay or leave should be informed by a thorough understanding of the specific risks in your area and the local conditions that may favor one choice over the other.