Hurricane Information for Expectant Mothers

A hurricane is an unexpected circumstance you may have not planned for during your pregnancy. However, with some hurricane preparation, you can keep you and your baby safe and healthy during the storm.

Creating a hurricane safety plan during pregnancy

Having a hurricane safety plan in place is helpful because it allows you to plan for your safety in advance. To begin creating your hurricane safety plan during pregnancy, ask yourself these questions:

Do I want to stay at my home if there is no evacuation or do I want to stay with a loved one during the storm?
Where will I go if I must evacuate my home (such as shelter or a loved one's home) and how will I get there?
Where is the nearest shelter located?
Where is the nearest hospital located?

Pregnant women who are near their due date or high risk

Any pregnant woman who is two weeks from her due date (38 weeks gestation) or is considered high risk may be asked to stay at the hospital in the event of a hurricane. If your provider determines that it is necessary for you to be in the hospital, arrive no later than four hours before the hurricane makes landfall.

If you are close to your due date or are high risk and have any questions, please contact your provider.

Creating a hurricane supplies checklist

Creating an emergency supplies kit will be helpful whether you stay home or must evacuate during the storm. If you are pregnant, consider having these items in your hurricane kit:

Baby care items, such as diapers, wipes and a pacifier
Baby carrier (should debris make it difficult to use a stroller)
Battery-operated radio
Bottled water
Closed-toe shoes
Emergency birthing supplies, such as towels and blankets, infant syringe and scissors
First-aid kit
Flashlight and batteries
Important phone numbers and information, such as your provider's phone number and the addresses of nearby hospitals and shelters
Maternity and baby clothes
Nutritious, nonperishable foods, such as protein bars and dried fruit
Prenatal vitamins and other medications

Staying safe during a hurricane while pregnant

It is important to stay current on local weather updates and evacuation orders. To do this, make sure you have a battery-operated radio so you can keep getting updates if you lose power. If you receive an evacuation order, it is important to evacuate promptly.

Going into labor during a hurricane

If you think you are going into labor during the hurricane, stay calm. Call 911 or have someone help you get to the hospital. If you are at a shelter and go into labor, tell the shelter supervisor you are in labor and they can assist you in getting the care you need.

Staying safe after a hurricane while pregnant

Although there is clean up to be done after a hurricane, it is important that you get plenty of rest for you and your baby. Drink plenty of water, do not lift heavy objects, stay cool and wash your hands if you come into contact with flood water.

If you have any concerns, contact your provider. It is essential to continue your routine prenatal care once you can do so safely.