Psalm 28:7
"The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him."
It is evening on Tuesday, 08 October 20024 and Hurricane Milton is still on route to central Florida. Destruction and floods are expected when this monstrous storm sweeps across the state making landfall on the Gulf Coast near Tampa and exiting to the Atlantic coast near Cape Canaveral. The outer bands extend 75 miles to the north and south of center. Currently teetering between category 4 and 5, it is predicted that Milton will decrease to category 3 before closing in on the coast.
I've spent the last two days preparing as much as I can. I trimmed up a bush and brought a chair in from outside. In the process, I talked to three neighbors! It has been really nice meeting and chatting with my neighbors at will. If something happens, it is understood, we can all lean on each other. I am so thankful to be on this street and in this community. Considering a slight change in path could either increase or decrease the risk of damage in my area, the storms uncertain path is a concern that affects each person differently. I hope for the best, remaining positive, while prepping for the worst.
I was able to get a bit of food yesterday by some miracle. I did some extra cooking today and froze some meals. In case we lose power, I will be able to eat for several days. I have bottled water and some frozen gel packs. I have a few battery powered lanterns. I have used these countless times over the past four years! They are an excellent source of light during emergencies and other situations! I also charged my jump starter for additional help if we were to lose power in my neighborhood.
It's important to lessen any possible triggers to anxiety prior to the storm. The hurricane itself will be plenty to handle as the rain pours and the wind whistles.. Speaking of whistles, I have two in my pocket in case I need help during this storm. My plan is to have my clothes and dishes washed and put away to avoid any anxiety that could arise.
My neighbor was taking pictures of his house. I thought it was a great idea, so I took video of the exterior of my house and each room of the interior.. I also took video of my car and garage contents. There is a mental argument going on in my head, one voice saying I should upload the videos to keep them safe, another strongly telling me all the reasons I shouldn't upload them and although the videos may be safe, I wouldn't be safe. If my phone gets damaged during Milton, it will be the least of my worries.
Overall, I would say I am more prepared to face this storm compared to other times. I am praying for everyone who is affected by this deadly storm. Already 1 million people are under a mandatory evacuation in Florida. Within the next 36 hours, when the storm approaches the coast, forecasts will become clearer, providing more accurate information about its path and potential impact.
We can’t control the storm, but we can prepare for what’s ahead—one step at a time.
Proverbs 21:31 "The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the Lord."
Comments