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The Future of Storm Supplies: New Tools and Gadgets to Watch For

What Supplies Do You Need in a Storm?

Whether preparing for a hurricane, thunderstorm, or blizzard, having the right supplies can make a significant difference. Here are the essentials:

Basic Emergency Kit

• Water: One gallon per person per day (minimum of 3 days)

• Non-perishable food: Canned goods, energy bars, freeze-dried meals

• Manual can opener

• Flashlights and battery-powered lanterns

• Extra batteries (all sizes)

• First aid kit

• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (preferably NOAA weather radio)

• Personal hygiene supplies (soap, wipes, toilet paper, feminine products)

• Multi-tool or pocket knife

• Blankets or sleeping bags

• Copies of important documents in a waterproof bag

Power and Communication

• Portable power banks and charging cables

• Solar-powered or hand-crank chargers

• Compact solar generators with USB and AC output

• Car jump starter kits with USB ports

• Emergency two-way radios or walkie-talkies

Advanced and Smart Gear

• GPS-enabled emergency beacons

• Smart water filtration systems (e.g., UV purifiers or straw filters)

• Waterproof, biometric storage boxes

• Flood sensors and Wi-Fi-enabled leak detectors

• Compact portable solar panels with battery storage

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How Might People Use Technology to Prepare for Storms

1. Real-Time Storm Tracking and Alerts

• Mobile apps such as MyRadar, AccuWeather, NOAA Weather, and the FEMA App provide live updates, radar images, and emergency alerts.

• Smart home systems integrate with weather alerts to automate safety protocols like closing storm shutters or turning off sensitive electronics.

2. Off-Grid Power Solutions

• Solar generators and large-capacity battery banks offer clean, quiet power when the grid fails.

• Some models allow for remote monitoring of power levels and usage via smartphone apps.

3. Smart Inventory and Supply Management

• RFID-tagged emergency kits allow users to track expiration dates and inventory from their phones.

• Automated reordering systems can notify or replenish essential supplies before they run out.

4. Community Connection and Coordination

• Crowdsourced apps such as Zello and Nextdoor allow users to share damage reports, road closures, or available shelter in real-time.

• Mesh networks like goTenna enable texting and location sharing without a cell signal, ideal for disaster zones.

5. AI and Predictive Analytics

• Municipalities are using AI to model flood risks, storm surge zones, and power grid vulnerabilities.

• Insurance providers are beginning to use real-time weather analytics to prompt protective actions before storms arrive.

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New and Emerging Gadgets we want to Watch

Tool or Gadget	Description	Importance
Solar-powered backpacks	Charge devices on the go during outages or evacuations	Provides mobile power
Satellite messengers	Send messages when cell towers are down (e.g., Garmin InReach)	Ensures emergency communication
Portable biomass stoves	Cook meals or boil water using natural materials	Useful when fuel is limited
AI-enabled smart locks	Lock and monitor your home remotely during evacuations	Adds security
Personal weather drones	Assess property damage after a storm without putting yourself at risk	Useful for insurance documentation

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Final Recommendations

Prepare in advance by building a “Go Bag” that includes:

• Personal documents

• Backup power sources

• First aid and hygiene products

• Food and water for at least 72 hours

• Key technology tools and chargers

For maximum readiness, combine traditional supplies with modern technology and regularly review your emergency plan with household members.

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Compilated by James B. MediaEclat, 2025 July