By now you have likely seen the devastation caused by Hurricane Laura in Southern Louisiana and Texas. Although the storm has now been downgraded to a tropical depression, citizens are still seeing the effects of the hurricane, including widespread damage, continued flooding, power outages and limited access to fresh water.

Although we had warning of the impending storm, Hurricane Laura struck in the early hours of the morning, making it extremely dangerous for sleeping residents or residents trying to navigate the roads to safety. The dark roads in conjunction with 150 mph winds and heavy rains made late evacuation perilous or close to impossible.

How to Stay Prepared During a Weather Event Like Hurricane Laura

It's so important to stay connected to others and aware of oncoming weather through reliable communication. An emergency radio in your car or on your nightstand is a necessity to keep you informed at all times, especially when the power is out and the cell phones towers are down.

Get Portable Weather Alerts During a Hurricane

During hurricane season, make sure you have a portable emergency radio with multiple power options like the Midland ER210 or ER310. Portable weather radios can be lifesaving during a catastrophic weather event.

The ER210 Emergency Crank Weather Radio features NOAA Weather Alert Radio, AM/FM radio, a rechargeable 2200 mAh battery that lasts up to 25 hours, a super bright LED flashlight + strobe, a USB port for charging other devices, and multiple sustainable power options, including solar and hand crank.

The ER310 Deluxe Emergency Crank Weather Radio has the same features as the ER210 but includes a 2600 mAh battery that lasts up to 32 hours, plus an ultrasonic dog whistle for assistance in canine search and rescue teams.

A portable weather radio is crucial during a hurricane; make sure you have one so you can grab and go. Take it with you when you evacuate so you continue to get all the weather updates while in your car.

For 20% off all weather radios, use code HURRICANE20.

Stay in Communication with Loved Ones During a Hurricane

Two-way communication is just as important as access to weather alerts during a storm -- get them both with the T71VP3. The X-Talker® T71VP3 Two-Way Radio keeps you in constant contact with family and friends. This powerful radio features NOAA Weather Alert Radio, Hi/Lo power settings and Xtreme range, plus rechargeable battery packs, a desktop charger and a Micro USB charging cable.

We know that cell phones are unreliable during a storm. Make sure you have access to reliable communication with weather alerts in case you are ever face to face with the "what if".

Takeaways from a Disaster like Hurricane Laura

We will likely see the devastation caused by Hurricane Laura in the months ahead. This category 4 storm struck in the early  hours of the morning, making it even more dangerous. In the days preceding a hurricane, there is not much you can do but make sure your family is safe by heeding evacuation orders and listening to the weather forecast. Keep your family safe, informed and in communication with an emergency and two-way radio.

For 20% off all weather radios, use code HURRICANE20.