Can your house hold up under a hurricane? Here are five things to do to minimize damage.

If you live in a hurricane-prone area, you know how nerve-wracking it can be when a storm is brewing. Your home is your sanctuary, and you want to make sure it can stand up to the wrath of Mother Nature. So, let's dive into five laid-back, yet crucial, steps you can take to minimize hurricane damage and keep your house in tip-top shape.

1. Beef Up Your Home's Strength

First things first, let's talk about reinforcing your home's structure. Take a stroll around your property and give it a good once-over.

• Top-Notch Roof: Make sure your roof is in good shape and properly anchored to the rest of your house. Consider adding hurricane straps or clips for extra security.
• Window and Door Love: Install impact-resistant windows and doors if you can swing it. If not, invest in sturdy hurricane shutters. Also, give those doors and windows a good seal to keep water out.
• Walls That Stand Tall: Strengthen your exterior walls with some bracing. Ensure that your siding or masonry is firmly attached to the frame.

2. Get Elevation-Savvy

If you're in an area prone to flooding, it's time to think about lifting your house. Elevating your home can save you a lot of headache (and heartache) when the waters rise.

• Pilings or Stilts: Consider lifting your home up on pilings or stilts. It'll keep it above the floodwaters. Make sure you're following local elevation regulations.
• Flood Vents: These nifty vents in your foundation walls let floodwater flow through, taking the pressure off your home's structure.

3. Batten Down the Hatches

You know those outdoor items that make your home feel cozy and inviting? Well, during a hurricane, they can turn into flying projectiles. So, secure or stow away stuff like patio furniture, grills, and garden decorations.

• Trim Those Trees: Give your trees a trim to minimize the risk of falling branches or even whole trees during a storm.

4. Craft a Hurricane Game Plan

Having a plan in place is like having a superhero cape for your family. It's your hurricane preparedness plan, and it's vital for your safety and your home's well-being.

• Evacuation Strategy: Know your escape routes and destinations. When authorities say "go," be ready to roll.
• Emergency Kit: Gather up a stash of essentials – food, water, flashlights, batteries, first aid gear, and important documents. Think of it as your hurricane survival kit.
• Stay Connected: Arrange a communication plan with your family so you can stay in touch during the storm. Get a battery-powered or hand-crank radio for weather updates.

5. Insure for the Unexpected

Standard homeowners' insurance usually doesn't cover flood damage. So, make sure you're protected financially by getting flood insurance from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private insurer. You can also buy Rainy Day Market hurricane tickets to help cover some of the costs and damage associated with a hurricane. The tickets are paid out immediately after a hurricane happens so you can use those funds to cover deductibles, whatever damages your insurance doesn’t cover, evacuation costs, and so on.

Your home is more than just bricks and beams; it's where memories are made. Taking these easygoing steps to hurricane-proof your house can give you peace of mind and ensure it stands strong when a storm rolls in. So, kick back, relax, and know that you've got your home's back, rain or shine!

What is "storm surge" and how can you protect your home from it?

Storm surge is a sudden and abnormal rise in sea level during a hurricane or tropical storm, resulting from the combination of strong onshore winds and low atmospheric pressure. It is one of the most dangerous and potentially deadly aspects of a hurricane, as it can cause widespread coastal flooding and pose a significant threat to life and property. Storm surge can inundate coastal areas, including homes and infrastructure, leading to devastating consequences. Here's how storm surge works and some ways to protect your home from it:

1. How Storm Surge Works

• Wind and Pressure: Storm surge occurs when strong winds from a hurricane push water toward the coast. The low atmospheric pressure in the storm's center also contributes to the rise in sea level. These two factors combine to create a dome of water that moves ashore.
• Topography: The shape of the coastline and the underwater features of the seabed can amplify or mitigate the effects of storm surge. Narrow bays, shallow coastal areas, and inlets can experience more significant surges.
• Timing: Storm surge typically occurs before the hurricane's center makes landfall, meaning that coastal areas can experience flooding well in advance of the storm's strongest winds and rain.

2. How to Protect Your Home from Storm Surge

• Evacuate if Advised: The most critical step is to heed evacuation orders issued by local authorities. If you're in an area at risk of storm surge, leave your home and seek higher ground.
• Elevate Your Home: If you live in a hurricane-prone area, consider elevating your home on pilings or stilts to reduce the risk of flood damage. Building codes in many coastal regions require elevated construction in vulnerable areas.
• Flood Barriers and Seals: Install flood barriers, flood panels, or watertight seals around doors and windows to prevent water from entering your home.
• Reinforce Your Foundation: Ensure that your home's foundation is strong and well-anchored to withstand the force of floodwaters. Reinforce it with pilings or other flood-resistant construction methods.
• Elevate Utilities: Elevate electrical systems, HVAC units, and other utilities to prevent water damage and electrical hazards during a flood.
• Storm Shutters: Install storm shutters or impact-resistant windows to protect against wind-driven debris.
• Secure Outdoor Items: Secure or bring inside outdoor furniture, grills, and other items that could become projectiles in high winds.
• Trim or remove dead, damaged, or rotting trees and limbs: The high winds that sometimes happen with storm surges can cause tree branches or whole trees to fall. To be fully safe, you should make sure that your home is at least one tree length away from the nearest tree
• Reinforce the garage door: Purchase reinforced garage doors that can withstand the force of water to help prevent water going into your home.
• Seal cracks and gaps: This will help prevent water from getting into your home. Make sure to use waterproof sealant! Also make sure to seal all windows.
• Flood Insurance: Purchase flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private insurer. Standard homeowners' insurance policies typically do not cover flood damage.

Remember that storm surge is a life-threatening event, and property can often be replaced, but lives cannot. Always prioritize your safety and the safety of your family by following evacuation orders and seeking shelter in a safe location during a hurricane with the potential for storm surge. Also make sure you have an emergency kit and an emergency plan in place.

Rainy Day Market’s hurricane tickets help you get immediately accessible funds in case of a storm surge because of a hurricane. You can use the payouts from the ticket (which you’ll get immediately!) to cover any evacuation costs, deductibles, emergency costs and so on.

What will happen to your home at different hurricane categories?

The impact of a hurricane on a home structure can vary significantly depending on the hurricane's category, the construction of the home, its location, and other factors. Here's a general overview of what can happen to home structures when they're hit by hurricanes of different categories:

Category 1 (74-95 mph) - Minimal Damage:

• Well-built homes may experience minimal damage, such as loose roof shingles, siding, or minor flooding.
• Poorly constructed or older homes may sustain more significant damage, including roof damage and some structural damage.

Category 2 (96-110 mph) - Moderate Damage:

• Well-built homes can still withstand this category with some damage to roofs, windows, and doors.
• Older or poorly constructed homes may experience more extensive damage, including roof failure and potential structural damage.

Category 3 (111-129 mph) - Extensive Damage:

• Even well-built homes are likely to experience significant damage, including roof and structural damage.
• Mobile homes can be completely destroyed.Mobile homes can be completely destroyed.
• Flooding can be a major concern, especially in coastal areas.

Category 4 (130-156 mph) - Severe Damage:

• Well-built homes may still experience severe damage, including roof failure and structural damage.
• Many older or weaker structures can be destroyed.
• Widespread flooding is a significant threat.

Category 5 (157 mph or higher) - Catastrophic Damage:

• Homes, even well-constructed ones, can be completely destroyed, leaving only the foundation.
• Widespread and catastrophic flooding is almost certain in coastal areas.
• Debris and projectiles from high winds can cause additional damage to structures.

It's important to note that the specific impact of a hurricane can also be influenced by factors such as storm surge, the angle of approach, the terrain, and the quality of construction materials and methods used in the home. Building codes and regulations in hurricane-prone areas often require homes to be designed and constructed to withstand the forces of hurricanes to varying degrees, with stricter standards in higher-risk areas.

Residents in hurricane-prone regions are advised to have hurricane preparedness plans in place, including reinforcing their homes where possible, securing loose objects, and having an evacuation plan in case the storm threatens their safety. Additionally, listening to local authorities and heeding evacuation orders is crucial for personal safety during a hurricane event.

Rainy Day Market’s hurricane tickets were created to help you bridge the gap between the costs you incur when a hurricane hits and your insurance: you can use it to help cover your deductibles, emergency evacuation costs, among other things. The tickets have an immediate payout, so you’ll have access to your funds as soon as the hurricane is confirmed.

What to do before leaving your house for a hurricane evacuation

Locking your house and evacuating during a hurricane can be a very stressful time. You need to act fast and make sure you and your family follow your evacuation plan diligently. Here is a checklist of things you must do before leaving your house to evacuate:

1. Secure Important Documents:

• Place important documents (ID, passports, insurance policies, birth certificates, etc.) in a waterproof container or bag. Consider making digital copies as well.

2. Turn Off Utilities:

• Shut off the main gas valve to prevent gas leaks.
• Turn off the main water supply to avoid water damage from broken pipes.
• Turn off the electricity at the main circuit breaker or fuse box.

3. Unplug Appliances:

• Unplug all non-essential appliances and electronics to prevent electrical surges if the power goes out or is restored unexpectedly.

4. Secure Windows and Doors:

• Lock all windows and doors securely.
• Install hurricane shutters or board up windows, if possible.

5. Raise Valuables:

• Elevate valuable items, electronics, and furniture off the floor to minimize potential flood damage.

6. Secure Outdoor Items:

• Bring in or secure outdoor furniture, grills, and decorations to prevent them from becoming projectiles in high winds.

7. Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors:

• Ensure smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly.

8. Set Thermostat:

• Adjust your thermostat to an energy-saving or hurricane-specific setting to reduce energy consumption.

9. Lock All Interior Doors:

• Lock interior doors to help prevent drafts and structural damage in case of strong winds.

10. Notify a Trusted Contact and your Neighbors:

• Inform a trusted friend or family member about your evacuation plans, including your destination and estimated arrival time.
• Inform your neighbors that you are evacuating and provide them with your contact information in case of emergencies.

11. Secure Pets:

• Safely confine or take your pets with you. Ensure they have identification and necessary supplies.

12. Gather Emergency Kit:

• Grab your pre-packed emergency kit, including food, water, medications, and essential supplies.

13. Double-Check Evacuation Route:

• Review your evacuation route and have a map or GPS device ready for navigation.

14. Lock Up:

• Lock all entry and exit points, including garage doors.

15. Check for Hazards:

• Identify and eliminate potential hazards or items that could cause damage during the storm.

16. Test Alarms:

• Check that your home security system, if you have one, is armed. - Ensure your car alarm is activated if you're leaving your vehicle behind.

17. Inspect the Yard:

• Trim trees and bushes that could potentially fall onto your home or vehicles.

18. Store Keys:

• Keep a spare set of house and car keys with you, and leave another set with a trusted neighbor or friend.

19. Verify Emergency Contacts:

• Ensure that you have emergency contact information, such as local authorities and utility companies, readily available.

What causes gas prices to move?

Gas prices can fluctuate due to a variety of factors, both on a global and local scale. These factors can interact with each other, leading to complex and sometimes rapid changes in gas prices. Here are some of the key factors that influence gas prices:

1. Crude Oil Prices

The most significant factor in determining gas prices is the cost of crude oil, as gasoline is refined from crude oil. Global supply and demand for crude oil play a major role in its pricing. Events such as geopolitical conflicts, production cuts by oil-producing countries (OPEC), and changes in global oil production can all impact crude oil prices.

2. Supply and Demand

The basic principle of supply and demand applies to gas prices. When demand for gasoline is high (e.g., during the summer travel season), and supply is limited, prices tend to rise. Conversely, when demand is low, or there's an oversupply of gasoline, prices may fall.

3. Refining Costs and Capacity

Gasoline must be refined from crude oil, and disruptions or maintenance at refineries can affect supply. Additionally, the refining process itself can be affected by various factors, including changes in environmental regulations and the availability of specific refining capacity.

4. Taxes

Federal, state, and local taxes can significantly impact gas prices. These taxes vary from one location to another and can change over time due to legislative decisions.

5. Exchange Rates

Since oil is traded globally in U.S. dollars, fluctuations in exchange rates can impact the cost of oil imports, which can, in turn, affect gas prices.

6. Transportation and Distribution Costs

The cost of transporting gasoline from refineries to gas stations can vary due to factors such as fuel efficiency, labor costs, and infrastructure maintenance.

7. Weather Events

Natural disasters, hurricanes, and extreme weather can disrupt oil production, refining, and distribution, leading to temporary spikes in gas prices, especially in regions directly affected by these events.

8. Speculation

Financial markets and speculative trading in oil futures can influence oil prices. Traders and investors often react to news and events that may or may not have a direct impact on the actual supply and demand of oil.

9. Government Policies

Government policies and regulations, such as emissions standards and fuel economy requirements, can influence the type of gasoline produced and the overall supply and demand for different types of fuel.

10. Competition

Gasoline prices can also be influenced by local competition among gas stations. In areas with more gas stations, prices may be lower due to competition, whereas in more remote areas with limited options, prices may be higher.

It's important to note that these factors can vary in importance depending on the region and time frame you're considering. Gas prices can be highly volatile and subject to rapid changes due to a combination of these factors. Additionally, the interplay between global and local factors can make predicting gas price movements complex.

Why are gas prices going up right now?

As we hit the summer of 2023, consumers across the globe are feeling the heat in more ways than one, especially at the gas pump. Gas prices have been on a rollercoaster ride, and the reasons behind these fluctuations are as diverse as the factors influencing our world today.

Global Players: Saudi Arabia, China, and OPEC

At the forefront of the recent gas price surge is Saudi Arabia, often recognized as the world's largest oil exporter. In a strategic move, the kingdom announced a substantial reduction in oil production, slashing at least 1 million barrels per day through July. This decision follows the lead of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), which, in April, declared a cut of 1.6 million barrels per day in global oil production.

OPEC, a coalition of major oil-producing nations, including Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, and Nigeria, collectively wields considerable influence, supplying approximately 40% of the world's crude oil. Their goal? To elevate the price of oil by limiting its global supply, effectively using their dominance to manipulate prices. Recently, OPEC extended its production cuts by an additional 1.4 million barrels per day, maintaining this strategy through the end of 2024.

In tandem with these global maneuvers, China's recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic is another critical factor. After enforcing some of the world's strictest lockdown measures since 2020, China began reopening its doors in late 2022. However, logistical challenges, such as expensive international flights and visa reinstatement delays, have slowed the process. As China's 1.4 billion citizens gradually return to their daily routines, experts anticipate heightened demand for fuel, inevitably contributing to rising gas prices.

Other influences in the mix include inflation, geopolitical tensions such as the U.S. ban on Russian oil imports due to the conflict in Ukraine, and the onset of summer, which traditionally boosts travel and road trips, further amplifying fuel demand.

The Heat Is On: Extreme Weather Impact

Adding to this complex equation is the relentless wave of extreme heat blanketing the nation. This scorching weather isn't just about discomfort; it's affecting the very infrastructure of our energy supply. AAA estimates that extreme heat has forced the shutdown of 500,000 barrels per day of refining capacity this summer. Petroleum engineers reveal that when temperatures hover around 100 degrees Fahrenheit, running refineries at maximum capacity becomes exceedingly challenging.

Furthermore, the heat dome responsible for these sweltering conditions in the southern United States is expected to expand its grip across more of the central part of the country in the coming weeks, potentially exacerbating the strain on energy infrastructure.

Stormy Seas: Hurricane Season Arrives

As if extreme heat weren't enough, the annual hurricane season has made its entrance, introducing another layer of uncertainty into the energy equation. Hurricane Hilary, though downgraded to a tropical storm, recently made landfall, impacting southern California, Nevada, and Arizona. However, it's not just the storms themselves but also the heightened risk they bring that is concerning. NOAA forecasters have increased the likelihood of an above-normal Atlantic hurricane season from 30% in May to 60% this month.

The U.S. remains particularly vulnerable to supply disruptions in the event of a significant storm striking between Corpus Christi, Texas, and the Beaumont-Port Arthur, Texas, coastline, an area home to numerous refineries.

In conclusion, gas prices are currently navigating a perfect storm of factors. From global power plays involving Saudi Arabia and OPEC to China's recovery, extreme heatwaves, and the unpredictability of hurricane season, consumers are left to grapple with the consequences at the pump. As we move forward into the summer months, it's clear that understanding the dynamics behind these price fluctuations will be more critical than ever for consumers and industries alike.

Can you predict if gas prices are going to go up or down in the next month?

Predicting the precise movement of gas prices is really hard because it depends on various complex factors, including global oil markets, geopolitical events, and economic conditions. However, there are some strategies and indicators that can help you predict what’s going to happen with your fuel costs:

Track Crude Oil Prices

Crude oil prices have a direct impact on gasoline costs. Monitoring these prices by regularly checking reliable financial news websites, using mobile apps that provide real-time oil price updates, or setting up price alerts for significant changes can help you predict what’s going to happen to the price of gas. Usually if oil prices go up, gas prices are quick to follow!

Analyze Supply and Demand

Understand the balance between oil supply and demand. Keep an eye on global oil production figures, events affecting oil-producing regions, and shifts in demand patterns. Look for trends or sudden changes that could signal potential price shifts. You can also do this at a local level: are you seeing more tourists in your town? Are you seeing any signs that more people will want to buy gas close to you?

Seasonal Patterns

Recognize the seasonal trends in gas prices. Typically, prices rise during the summer months due to increased travel and drop during the winter when demand lessens. Consider how these patterns might affect next month's prices.

Stay Informed About Geopolitics

Keep up with geopolitical events that could disrupt oil supplies or affect major oil-producing countries. Conflicts, sanctions, or political instability can lead to supply disruptions and higher oil prices. Usually these make major news, so you’ll probably read about this in social media or your favorite news TV show.

Economic Indicators

Pay attention to economic indicators such as inflation rates, exchange rates, and overall economic health. A strong economy often leads to greater oil demand, while economic downturns can reduce it.

Government Policies and Regulations

Research any upcoming government policy changes or regulatory shifts that could influence oil prices. Tax adjustments, emissions standards, and energy-related policies can all have an impact.

Weather Considerations

Factor in weather-related events, particularly if you're in an area prone to hurricanes or other natural disasters. These events can disrupt oil production and refining, causing temporary price spikes.

Consult Energy Reports

Utilize energy market reports and forecasts provided by organizations like the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) or the International Energy Agency (IEA). These reports offer valuable insights into market trends and can aid in your predictions.

Local Market Insights

Understand that gas prices can vary significantly by region due to local factors like taxes, transportation costs, and competition among gas stations. Investigate your local market to gain insights into potential price movements.

Use Forecasting Tools

Explore online tools and apps that provide gas price forecasts based on historical data and current market conditions. While these forecasts aren't foolproof, they can serve as valuable resources for your analysis.

Remember, forecasting oil and gas prices is inherently uncertain, and various unforeseen factors can influence them. Your goal should be to make informed decisions based on available information, but also remain adaptable to changing market conditions. This approach will help you better anticipate and manage your fuel expenses in the months ahead.

Why do all the gas stations in my town have the same price day to day? Do they have a meeting or what?

So, you might have noticed that gas stations in your town often seem to have eerily similar prices, like they're all in cahoots or something. But don't worry, they're not having secret meetings to coordinate their prices. There's actually a bunch of everyday reasons why gas prices tend to be pretty close among different stations in the same area.

Competition

First off, gas stations are like hawks when it comes to checking out what their neighbors are charging. If one station drops its prices, you can bet your bottom dollar that others nearby will follow suit. And when one station decides to hike up prices, you guessed it, their competitors might just do the same to rake in more profit. It's all about trying to get you to pull into their pumps.

Market Dynamics

Then there's the whole supply and demand thing. Gas prices can be influenced by factors like how much gas is available, what it costs to get it to the station, and taxes slapped on top. These factors usually hit all the stations in the area in pretty much the same way, so you'll see uniform price changes.

Consumer Behavior

We're creatures of habit, right? Most of us tend to go for the nearest or cheapest gas station. That's why stations close to each other often keep their prices competitive. They know you're looking for the best deal and don't want you to drive past their place.

Franchise Agreements

Some gas stations belong to bigger franchises or chains. These guys might have set pricing rules for all their locations, which can make prices look the same across the board.

Regulations

Lastly, there are those pesky rules and agreements in some places that stop gas stations from going all-out price war on each other. These rules help keep things stable in the area.

But here's the kicker – there are some extra factors you might want to keep an eye out for. For instance, some gas stations have convenience stores on-site, and these are responsible for most of their profits. To get you in the door, they might price their gas a bit lower. Also, the brand of gas can make a difference. Exxon might be pricier than Shell, but if you're getting a higher-quality fuel, it could be worth the extra cents. And don't forget, if you're driving between cities, different places often have different regulations, which can mean you see a difference in the price tag.

So, while gas stations aren't secretly plotting to squeeze every last cent out of your pocket, it's still smart to shop around. Small differences can pop up, and you might just stumble upon a station with a few cents off the gallon, which can add up over time. Happy fueling!

Why are people flocking to this $50 product for supplemental hurricane coverage?

You’ve probably heard of the Rainy Day Market hurricane tickets by now… So what is the fuss all about? Here are the top reasons us (a lot of people) are stocking up on these for the next hurricane season.

1. Get actual cash the next day

We’ve all been there: emergency plan, evacuation, loss of electricity, house damage. The hit on the family budget is immense, and most of these costs aren’t covered by insurance. The hurricane tickets pay out immediately after the hurricane hits and you can use the cash for any expenses you have. You get the cash and it’s up to you and your family on where to allocate it: from food lost cause of electricity and hotel stay, to just adding it to your savings account if you (thankfully!) didn’t have any costs.

2. Covering deductibles

Deductibles are getting higher and higher, and paying the deductibles is very painful and can ruin your family’s budget. A lot of folks are buying the Hurricane tickets to bridge the gap between your actual expenses and what insurance actually covers. As Madeline White from Miami says “I’ve been using Aflac for years, I’m using these tickets as Aflac for my house!”.

3. Simple and flexible

The tickets are $25 each so you can fit the number of tickets to you and your family needs. You can also buy these tickets at any point in time, directly on the Rainy Day Market website, without having to talk to anyone, wait for a quote or anything like that. Of course, the price might be different at different times, but the option to buy is always there!

4. Backed by a federally regulated institution

I know: giving money to a new website can be scary. However, Rainy Day Market is as safe as it gets. In the background, they’re powered by a federally regulated financial market. The money to payout every ticket bought is safeguarded in a segregated bank account only used to payout these tickets.

5. Alerts and help on the website

Hurricane season is scary, and hurricanes are unpredictable beasts. Through the Rainy Day Market website you get access to a lot of hurricane related news, alerts, and also help on how to prepare if a hurricane is about to hit your town. In stressful times, Rainy Day Market has become a very helpful resource to Maria Gonzalez from New Orleans “I was checking the website all the time, they have super helpful articles, updates on the storm, and also the best checklists for evacuation out there”.

You don’t want to miss out on this new way to add piece of mind to you and your family when a disaster is about to hit. Join thousands of others on getting hurricane tickets!