6 days and counting without power

Surviving 6 Days Without Power After Hurricane Helene: Lessons Learned

On September 27, 2024, Hurricane Helene swept through, leaving a trail of destruction and knocking out power for days. Like many in the storm’s path, we found ourselves without electricity for six long days. It was a real test of preparation, patience, and problem-solving. Here's what I learned from the experience and some tips for anyone who might find themselves in a similar situation.

Day 1-2: Reality Sets In
As soon as the power went out, my immediate concern was preserving food. With no electricity, I kept the fridge and freezer shut tight to maintain the cold. By the second day, I knew the perishable items wouldn’t last, so I transferred everything I could to a cooler filled with ice. Tip: Stock up on ice if a storm is approaching. It can extend the life of your perishables for a few days.

With the stove and microwave out of commission, cooking became a challenge. Luckily, I had an outdoor grill, which became my main cooking tool. From morning coffee to dinner, everything was made on the grill. If you don’t have a grill or camping stove, consider getting one—it’s a lifesaver during long power outages.

Day 3-4: Cash is King and Warm Showers are Gold
By day three, I realized how important cash was. Without power, ATMs weren’t working, and many stores couldn’t process credit or debit cards due to the lack of internet. Having cash on hand allowed me to buy essential items like gas, ice, and non-perishable food. Always keep a small amount of cash at home for situations like this.

One silver lining was the water heater. Even without electricity, it retained enough heat to provide warm showers on day three. It was a small luxury during an otherwise tough time, making a huge difference in staying comfortable and feeling refreshed. A well-insulated water heater can maintain heat for several days, so it's worth considering if you're upgrading.

Day 5-6: Entertainment and Connectivity Challenges
With no power and limited access to the outside world, boredom set in by day five. Without TV or internet, I turned to books, board games, and good old-fashioned conversations. I also quickly realized how dependent I am on my phone for everything, from entertainment to communication. A portable power bank or solar charger is essential for keeping devices powered during extended outages.

Communication was another challenge. With spotty phone signals, it was hard to stay updated on when power would be restored. However, staying connected with neighbors became a great source of support. We shared resources and kept each other informed, which was a big help in getting through the final days without power.

Final Thoughts
Going six days without power after Hurricane Helene was an eye-opening experience. I learned that preparation is key—having alternative cooking methods, a backup water supply, cash, and ways to stay entertained made all the difference. Most importantly, having a community to rely on for support during tough times is invaluable.

As of now, the power is still out and isn't estimated to be back on for another few days. While the experience has been challenging, knowing what to expect and how to cope makes it easier to push through. If I had to do it all again, I’d be even better prepared, knowing these lessons can make even the longest outages more bearable.
 
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