The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season started on June 1, and runs through November 30. This year, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is predicting a 30% chance of a near-normal season, a 60% chance of an above-normal season, and a 10% chance of a below-normal season in the Atlantic basin this year.
The last major hurricane to hit New York City was Hurricane Ida in 2021, which caused an estimated $9 billion in infrastructure damage and took 13 lives in NYC alone. The storm was particularly impactful in the outer boroughs and had a disproportionate impact on residential properties.
Prior to that, 2011’s Hurricane Irene caused about $296 million in damage and was responsible for 10 deaths, thanks in part to severe flooding in NYC and Long Island.
Then there was Hurricane Sandy, which took at least 43 lives and racked up economic losses in New York City estimated to be roughly $19 billion. Thousands of homes were destroyed, along with what experts estimate was a staggering 250,000 vehicles lost.
These storms are not to be trifled with, as climate change is increasing their intensity and making forecasts less reliable. When you hear that an impending storm could hit the area where you live or work, it is essential to listen for National Weather Service alerts on TV or the radio… or check for them online.
The Difference Between a Watch and a Warning
There are two kinds of hurricane alerts: a “watch” and a “warning.” A hurricane watch means hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or more) are possible in a stated area. Experts announce hurricane watches 48 hours before they expect tropical-storm-force winds (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph). A hurricane warning is more serious. Experts issue these warnings 36 hours before tropical-storm-force winds are expected in the area to give people enough time to prepare or flee.
Gather Emergency Supplies
During and after a hurricane, you may need supplies to keep your family safe and healthy. Remember: A hurricane can cut off your power and water supply. You also may not be able to drive due to damage to your vehicle. Roads may be flooded or blocked. Don’t wait, buy as many of the following items in advance to be safe, as stores could be overwhelmed with customers, leaving empty shelves. We advise stocking up on everything you might need now, including:
- An emergency food and water supply
- An emergency medicine supply
- Emergency power sourcessuch as flashlights (don’t forget extra batteries).
- Safety and personal items
- Important documents, including medical documents, wills, passports and personal identification
- A fire extinguisher – know where it is and how to use it
- Pet owners should “pre-identify” shelters, a pet-friendly hotel, or an out-of-town friend/relative who can take pets in an evacuation. Local animal shelters may have advice, but they too may be overwhelmed in an emergency.
Assemble an Emergency Kit Before a Storm Hits
In case you find yourself stranded, it’s essential to keep an emergency supply kit in your car with these extras:
- Jumper cables
- Flares or reflective triangles
- Car cell phone charger
- Blanket
- Map (in case GPS fails)
- Cat litter or sand (for better traction)
Prepare Your Car for Emergencies
Understanding that a storm can hit with little warning, and hurricane season is already underway, it’s a good idea to have a mechanic check the following on your car, if you haven’t already done so:
- Antifreeze levels
- Battery and ignition system
- Brakes
- Exhaust system
- Fuel and air filters
- Heater and defroster
- Lights and flashing hazard lights
- Oil
- Thermostat
- Windshield wiper equipment and washer fluid level
Car Safety Tips
- When you hear of an impending storm, try to keep your gas tank full (or your EV fully charged) in case of evacuation or power outages.
- Do not drive through flooded areas. Six inches of water can cause a vehicle to lose control or possibly stall. A foot of water will float many cars.
- Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded. Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car.
- Do not use cruise control on wet, slippery roads. If it is set too high, it could cause your car to hydroplane when driving over standing water.
- If a power line falls on your car you are at risk of a lethal electrical shock. Stay inside until a trained person removes the wire.
- If it becomes difficult to control your car, pull over and set the parking brake.
- Remember: A major storm can affect the stability of roadways. Try to avoid overpasses, bridges and other hazards whenever possible.
Can An EV Catch Fire During a Hurricane?
Most electric vehicles (EVs) contain lithium-ion batteries, which, if soaked in saltwater for an extended period of time, can ignite after floodwaters subside. The problem is rare, but the risk is real. If saltwater reaches the interior of a lithium-ion battery, it can cause the cells to short-circuit, generating heat. This can spur a chain reaction called “thermal runaway,” which can cause additional short-circuiting and generate more heat. The end result: a fire that can last for hours and is hard to extinguish. Automakers design their lithium-ion batteries to be water-resistant. But if a vehicle is submerged in saltwater for an extended period, wear and tear or corrosion could allow saltwater to seep into the battery and cause a fire.
How can I protect my EV?
- If you’re not evacuating but anticipate saltwater flooding or storm surge where your EV is parked, try to reduce your vehicle’s charge to 20 or 30%. A lower charge means less energy that could cause thermal runaway.
- Move the car to a place less likely to be flooded, like the top floor of a parking garage. If that option is not available, park at least 50 feet away from flammable structures, like your house, garage or a stand of trees.
- If your EV is submerged, don’t drive it, even if it looks safe. Fires can ignite hours, days or even weeks after floodwaters recede. Contact the manufacturer for an inspection. Be clear that your vehicle was submerged and needs to be assessed for flood damage.
- Important: EVs aren’t the only fire risk in a disaster. Gas-powered cars can, and often do, catch fire. EV fires just need to be dealt with differently.
Art Wheaton, the director of labor studies at Cornell University’s School of Industrial and Labor Relations says EV’s are a “double-edged sword” in a disaster.
“First off, if there is no power you won’t be able to charge,” he explained. “On the other hand, many larger EVs allow you to use the car to power your lights or refrigerator in your house. They can also charge things like cell phones and laptops, which are critical in an emergency.”
Sources: CDC, Ready, The New York Times, Cornell
