
Download a weather app with real-time alerts.
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Platform: Android & iOS
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Features: Real-time severe weather alerts, interactive radar maps, 15-day forecasts, and personalized notifications.
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Why It’s Recommended: Recognized for its accuracy and comprehensive coverage, it's a top choice for tracking severe weather events.
2. MyRadar
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Platform: Android & iOS
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Features: High-definition radar, real-time storm tracking, and customizable weather layers.
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Why It’s Recommended: Offers detailed radar imagery and is particularly useful for monitoring local weather conditions.
3. AccuWeather
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Platform: Android & iOS
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Features: Minute-by-minute precipitation forecasts, severe weather alerts, and customizable notifications.
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Why It’s Recommended: Known for its precise forecasting and user-friendly interface.
4. WeatherBug
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Platform: Android & iOS
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Features: Real-time weather conditions, lightning alerts, and customizable weather maps.
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Why It’s Recommended: Provides hyperlocal weather data and is useful for tracking lightning and severe storms.
5. Clime: NOAA Weather Radar Live
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Platform: Android & iOS
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Features: Live radar, severe weather alerts, and detailed forecasts.
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Why It’s Recommended: Offers comprehensive weather tracking with an interactive map and supports multiple locations.
6. StormWatch+
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Platform: Android & iOS
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Features: Customizable weather alerts, radar, and forecast information.
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Why It’s Recommended: Allows users to set up personalized alerts for specific locations, making it ideal for travelers and locals alike.
7. OpenWeather
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Platform: Android & iOS
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Features: Current weather data, forecasts, and weather maps.
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Why It’s Recommended: Provides global weather data with a focus on hyperlocal forecasts, useful for detailed weather planning.
Keep an Emergency Kit Ready with Essentials.
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Water (at least 1 gallon per person per day for 3 days)
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Food (non-perishable, 3-day supply: energy bars, canned goods, dried fruits, jerky)
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Manual can opener
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First Aid Kit (with bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, tweezers, etc.)
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Flashlight (with extra batteries or a hand-crank flashlight)
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Battery-powered or hand-crank weather radio
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Phone charger + power bank (solar-powered is even better)
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Personal documents (ID, insurance, bank info, birth certificates—copies in a waterproof pouch)
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Cash (small bills; ATMs may not work)
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Multi-tool or Swiss Army knife
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Whistle (to signal for help)
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1-2 changes of clothes (weather-appropriate)
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Sturdy shoes or boots
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Rain poncho or jacket
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Blanket or sleeping bag
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Toiletries (toothbrush/paste, soap, deodorant, feminine hygiene products, wipes, hand sanitizer)
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Face masks and gloves
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Trash bags (for sanitation or rain protection)
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Infant supplies (diapers, formula, baby food, wipes)
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Comfort items (small toys, books, stuffed animals)
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Pet supplies (leash, food, water bowl, pet meds, carrier)
4. Health & Safety
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Prescription medications (3- to 7-day supply)
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Over-the-counter meds (allergy meds, antacids, etc.)
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Eyeglasses or extra contact lenses + solution
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Insect repellent & sunscreen
5. Additional Handy Items
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Duct tape
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Zip ties
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Notebook & pen
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Local maps
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Copies of emergency contacts
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Glow sticks
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Plastic sheeting or tarp (for shelter or waterproofing)
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Small fire starter kit (matches/lighter in waterproof case)
TIP: Store everything in a durable backpack or waterproof tote. Keep it somewhere easy to grab—by the door, in your car, or garage. Check it every 6 months to update food, water, and medications.