Preparing for Unpredictible Weather When Camping

Preparation is key when dealing with treacherous weather but unfortunately sometimes the best laid plans go awry during a storm. It is important to have a plan of action, supplies, and a calm demeanor when navigating a storm in an RV.

One of the best and most practical items you can have with you wherever you go RVing is a battery powered weather radio. This can keep you up to date about impending weather and alert you if you need to take further action. Unfortunately just having one of these radios is not enough. You also need to take note of the county you are in and all surrounding cities. The radio will be of no help with an approaching storm if you are unsure of your whereabouts. You will also need to know the difference between a storm watch and a storm warning. A watch means that the conditions are favorable for a storm, tornado, hurricane, etc to occur. A warning on the other hand means that dangerous weather is actively threatening the area.

When checking into a campground one of the first things you should do is ask where the “designated storm shelter” is located. If they don’t have one or don’t know find out where the nearest strong shelter/structure is and if it is accessible 24 hours a day. Finding a shelter before a storm is infinitely easier than finding one during. Unplugging your RV from the campground electricity is also highly recommended. Power spikes can and do occur during thunderstorms or even during high winds and can fry some of your circuit boards, appliances, etc.

With the spring months quickly approaching and with it tornado season this is just a few tips to help make you a more aware and safer RVer.