Browse
Log in / Register
Share
As the nor'easter pushes through the region on May 9, 2026, AAA Northeast has issued a practical safety guide for homeowners bracing for strong winds, heavy rain, and possible coastal flooding. The storm is expected to create hazardous driving conditions and knock out power in some communities. AAA says taking action before conditions worsen can significantly reduce the risk of property damage and personal injury.
The biggest home-safety risk in a nor'easter often comes from items that turn into projectiles in high winds. Patio furniture, grills, planters, children's toys, and trash bins should be brought inside or strapped down before the storm arrives. Even small objects like garden tools can cause serious damage if wind lifts them into windows, siding, or vehicles.
Tree limbs are another common source of damage. AAA advises homeowners to trim overhanging branches and remove any visibly weakened limbs while the weather is still calm. Loose, dead wood is especially risky because strong gusts can snap it and send it into the house or nearby power lines.
Equally important is clearing gutters, downspouts, and storm drains. Leaves and debris can quickly cause water to pool on the roof or around the foundation. With the ground already saturated from heavy rain, blocked drainage increases the chance of basement seepage and structural water damage.
Homeowners should also take a few photos of the property before the storm hits. These images can serve as a time-stamped record of existing conditions and make it easier to file an insurance claim if the storm causes new damage.
Extended outages are one of the most disruptive parts of a nor'easter. AAA recommends keeping enough supplies to stay self-sufficient for at least three to five days. That timeframe gives road crews and utility workers time to restore services even if the region experiences widespread damage.
A well-stocked emergency kit should include:
Families should keep the kit in a single, easy-to-carry place, such as a clear bin or duffel bag near an exit. In a dark house or during a frantic evacuation, digging through different closets wastes precious time.
A vehicle left outside can be damaged by falling branches, flying debris, or flooding. AAA says drivers should inspect windshield wipers and replace any that are streaking or brittle. They should also check tire tread depth; wipers and tires are the first line of defense on wet roads.
Where a car is parked matters just as much as how it is maintained. Parking in low-lying areas near creeks, tidal zones, or storm drains puts a vehicle at risk for water damage. If possible, move cars to higher ground or a garage before the storm arrives. Avoid parking directly under large trees or utility lines.
For anyone who has to drive after the storm begins, AAA offers several practical rules:
Drivers should also confirm their auto insurance policy includes comprehensive coverage. Comprehensive insurance generally covers storm-related damage from falling tree limbs, flying debris, and flooding. A collision-only policy may not cover those types of losses, so a quick call to the insurance provider before the storm could prevent a costly surprise later.
When the lights go out, it is tempting to grab candles, but open flames are risky if gas lines are damaged or strong winds knock items over. Battery-powered flashlights and lanterns are the safer choice. Fully charging every phone, tablet, and power bank before the storm is also critical because cell service may remain active even when electricity does not.
Anyone using a backup generator must place it outdoors, away from doors, windows, and vents. Generators should never be used in a garage, basement, or enclosed porch because carbon monoxide buildup can be deadly. Homeowners should also let the generator cool completely before refueling.
Similarly, outdoor grills and portable stoves are not safe to use inside the home. The same carbon monoxide risk applies. Plan meals that do not require cooking, or use only equipment rated for indoor use with proper ventilation.
Once the storm is overhead, the safest place is indoors, away from large windows and glass doors. AAA advises keeping curtains or blinds closed to reduce the risk of shattered glass. If officials issue an evacuation order for a coastal area, residents should leave immediately rather than wait until roads flood.
Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank weather radio on hand so emergency alerts can still be received during a power outage. Cell phone alerts can be helpful, but towers may be strained or damaged during severe weather. Local news stations and government social media channels are also useful, though data connections should be used sparingly to preserve battery life.
Storm damage can create complex insurance situations. For homeowners, standard policies often cover wind damage from trees and debris, but damage from rising water may require a separate flood insurance policy. Reviewing the declarations page now, rather than after the storm, gives residents time to ask questions and understand their deductibles.
AAA also reminds residents to photograph valuables and vehicles inside the home before the storm begins. A short video walk-through of each room can serve as a simple inventory if belongings are damaged.
A nor'easter is a fast-moving danger that rewards preparation. With damaged roads, downed trees, and power failures likely, following AAA's guidance can help homeowners protect their property and stay comfortable until the storm passes.
