Basic Hurricane Supply Kit: What Every Louisiana Family Needs

Lake Charles, LA [KNGT-FM] - It didn't take long for the 2026 Hurricane Season to remind Gulf Coast residents how quickly tropical weather can become a concern. With activity already developing in the Gulf, emergency officials are once again encouraging families to make sure they have a hurricane preparedness plan and a well-stocked emergency supply kit.

For those living in Louisiana and along the Gulf Coast, hurricane season is a reality that comes with every summer and fall. While no one knows exactly where the next storm will make landfall, being prepared before a storm threatens your area can make a significant difference when it comes to safety and comfort.

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Southwest Louisiana residents know this lesson all too well. Storms like Hurricanes Rita, Laura, and Delta left lasting memories here in Southwest Louisiana and demonstrated how quickly everyday necessities can become difficult to find. Stores often sell out of critical supplies in the days leading up to a storm, leaving unprepared families scrambling for essentials.

According to emergency preparedness experts, every household should maintain a basic hurricane supply kit that can support family members for several days if power outages, flooding, or evacuation orders occur. Here's a basic list you will need to have on hand for you and your family.

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Basic Hurricane Supply List

• Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
• Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
• A battery-powered or hand-crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Dust mask to help filter contaminated air, plastic sheeting, and duct tape to shelter-in-place
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties for personal sanitation
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• A manual can opener for food
• Local maps
• Cell phone with chargers, inverter, or solar charger

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Now is the ideal time to review your hurricane plan, restock missing items, and ensure your family knows what to do if a storm develops. Hurricane season has only begun, and preparation today could help reduce stress and uncertainty when the next tropical threat approaches.