The Importance of Staying Home During a Hurricane

As Ian bears down on the East Coast of the United States, many Americans are making the decision to take time off work to prepare for the storm. However, not all Americans are taking the same approach. In Fort Meyers, where the hurricane has already caused significant damage, residents are struggling to rebuild their lives. Meanwhile, in North Carolina and Virginia, where the hurricane is expected to make landfall, many citizens are telling their employers that they need to hunker down and ride out the storm. Most of these citizens are charging up alcohol tabs at the local bar. So, what’s the difference? Are the citizens of North Carolina and Virginia being dramatic?

It’s important to remember that hurricanes are unpredictable. Just because North Carolina and Virginia are not currently facing the same level of damage as Fort Meyers, that doesn’t mean that they won’t be affected by the hurricane. In fact, many experts believe that Hurricane Ian will do more damage than Hurricane Irma, which caused widespread destruction in Florida. As a result, it’s entirely possible that North Carolinians and Virginians will find themselves in the same position as Fort Meyers residents in a matter of days. (or not)

That being said, there is a difference between preparing for a hurricane and hunkering down for one, and drinking and lying to employers. When North Carolina and Virginia residents say that they need to hunker down, they mean that they need to shelter in place and ride out the storm. This is a sensible decision for many people who live in coastal areas or who would have difficulty evacuating due to medical conditions or other circumstances.

On the other hand, Fort Meyers residents are suffering from the aftermath of the hurricane. They have lost their homes, their belongings, and in some cases, their jobs. As a result, they have no choice but to rebuild their lives from scratch. This is a difficult and daunting task, made all the more difficult by the fact that many insurance companies are reluctant to pay out claims for hurricane damage. I’m sure many of them wish they were in North Carolina drinking and complaining to their bosses.

It’s important to remember that every person experiences hurricanes differently. For some people, like those in Fort Meyers, hurricanes can be devastating. For others, like those in North Carolina and Virginia, hunkering down and riding out the storm may be the best option. Even if it means drinking till blackout. There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to preparing for a hurricane; ultimately, everyone needs to do what is best for them and their families.