Introduction to Hurricane Food Prep
With hurricane season starting, it’s time to check and double-check food and water supplies.
Keep the following in mind:
Hurricane Food Prep by the Numbers
1 gallon of water per person per day (don’t forget pets!). Remember, tap water is still safe to drink, it’s only dicey after a power outage. Fill clean pitchers and water bottles now. Also, fill freezer bags with water and freeze them ahead of time. Just let them thaw in a water pitcher for clean drinking water.
3-7 days worth of food for each person (again, don’t forget pets! Cat parents, grab extra kitty litter).
Hurricane Food Safety by the Numbers
4 hours: the amount of time a refrigerator will keep food cold
24 hours: the amount of time a half-full freezer will hold its temperature
48 hours: the amount of time a full freezer will hold its temperature
40 degrees and below: the temperature a freezer item should still be at to be refrozen. If it still has ice crystals, it’s also safe.
Additional Food Safety Tips
Don’t taste a food to determine if it’s gone bad. If you’re unsure of it, throw it out.
Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible.
Check out this USDA website for more tips.
Essential Food Items to Store
Tough-skinned fruits and vegetables: Citrus, carrots, apples, avocados, etc. Wash and dry them before the storm.
Protein-rich foods: Peanut butter, protein bars, unsalted nuts, trail mix, beans, etc.
Smoked or dried meats and hard cheeses (nonperishable and goes well with a glass of wine!)
Instant drinks: Shelf-stable milk, instant coffee and tea
Comfort foods: Cookies, hard candy, chips, crackers, etc.
Canned items: Meats, fruits (in juice), vegetables, soups, stews and chilis
Condiments: You’re going to need them to spice up those canned vegetables! Snag some hot sauces, mustard, oil and vinegar.
Gathering and Cleaning Cooking Tools
A manual can opener, appliance thermometer, pans or sheets that can be used on a grill, oven mitts, matches, cooking tools, grill fuel, moist towelettes, paper towels, gel fuel such as Sterno, a grill light or flashlight designated for cooking, pet food, paper plates and plastic utensils.
Post-Storm Grilling Tips
Never use a grill inside a house.
Make sure your grill is a few feet from your home and far away from awning overhangs, plants, etc. Never leave it unattended — especially around small children or pets.
Use only approved accelerant fuels for charcoal fires — NOT gasoline.
Charcoal briquettes need about 48 hours to cool before they’re thrown out. Soak the charcoal in water before tossing it.
Conclusion
Preparing for a hurricane involves careful planning and attention to detail, especially when it comes to food and water supplies. By following the guidelines outlined above, you can help ensure that you and your loved ones stay safe and healthy during and after the storm.
FAQs
Q: How much water should I store per person per day?
A: 1 gallon of water per person per day.
Q: How long will a refrigerator keep food cold during a power outage?
A: 4 hours.
Q: What types of food should I store for a hurricane?
A: Tough-skinned fruits and vegetables, protein-rich foods, smoked or dried meats, instant drinks, comfort foods, canned items, and condiments.
Q: Can I use a grill inside a house after a hurricane?
A: No, never use a grill inside a house.
Originally Published: May 29, 2025 at 2:27 PM EDT
