US Travel Tips: How to Protect Yourself During A Natural Disaster

Safeguard Your Trip to USA During Natural Disaster

The United States of America is a vast country with varying climates and four spectacular seasons – spring, summer, fall, and winter. The landscape of the country is also appealing – from the Rocky Mountains to the Great Lakes.

Here is another fact about the US. It is known that the country is prone to natural disasters, possibly because of global change in climate patterns.

So, if you are planning to visit the US, make sure you are prepared for the emergencies which can occur due to natural calamities. Buying USA Travel Insurance is highly recommended. Travel plans are specialized insurance products that provide coverage for all medical and non-medical emergencies during a trip.

Natural Disasters that Commonly Occur in the US

Hurricanes

Hurricanes are tropical cyclones with winds traveling at a speed of 74 miles per hour or above that. The period from June to November is the time when the country, especially the coastal regions, is prone to Atlantic hurricanes and Pacific hurricanes.

Earthquakes

Earthquakes occur in the country at any time of the year. Alaska, California, and Hawaii are some of the places that are highly prone to earthquakes.

Tornadoes

Tornadoes or twisters, the funnel-shaped rotating columns of wind, are quite common in the US and over a thousand tornadoes strike the country in a year. They are formed from the collision of warm humid air with cold dry air. Usually, they are accompanied by severe thunderstorms.

Volcanoes

The movement of tectonic plates not just cause earthquakes but also trigger volcanoes. The USA has seen the eruption of some of the dangerous volcanoes with an impact on lives and property. Some volcanic clusters are in the regions of California, Alaska, Washington, and Oregon.

Floods

Floods happen as a result of heavy rainfall and wreak havoc especially in the coastal areas. Some flood-risk zones include the Gulf Coast, Florida, North Carolina and Texas.

Safety Measures to Follow During Natural Disasters

Natural disasters have adverse consequences as they can cause large-scale destruction such as loss of lives, damages to property, interruption to public services and the spread of diseases. If you are traveling to the United States or any other country, it is advisable that you research about the disasters that commonly occur there.

Here are some useful guidelines to manage if you face an emergency during a natural calamity.

• Prepare an emergency kit with first-aid boxes and vital documents.
• When an earthquake strikes, protect your head and neck with your arms to avoid getting hurt from falling objects.
• If you are outside, find shelter and follow evacuation instructions given by authorities.
• Stay away from swiftly moving water when there is a flood.
• Do not touch electrical outlets, appliances or gas lines that have been exposed to water.
• Stay tuned to the radio for any urgent updates or instructions from authorities.
• Get prior information about evacuation routes, shelters, and local warning systems.
• After the disaster, inform your family and friends that you are alright.
• Seek medical assistance if you are feeling sick or injured.

How Does Travel Insurance Protect You?

Thinking about a natural disaster can make anyone anxious. However, preparing for such unforeseen events and staying calm when they occur is of utmost importance.

Moreover, natural disasters like those mentioned above can lead to flight delays, cancellation or interruption of your US trip. If you are caught in such a situation, it is likely to be stressful as you will have to spend on additional accommodation and transportation costs. Furthermore, you may require medical treatment in case of injuries or illness. Hence, buying USA travel insurance is beneficial as it will provide cover in case of emergency medical or non-medical expenses. Moreover, a travel policy will also provide coverage during a loss of vital travel documents such as a passport.

Care offers customized travel insurance plans for various destinations so that you get adequate coverage depending on the likely expenses.

Disclaimer: Plan features, benefits, coverage, and claims underwriting are subject to policy terms and conditions. Kindly refer to the brochure, sales prospectus, and policy documents carefully.