Preparing for Tropical Storm Bertha
Last month we were warning about the coming hurricane season and sure enough, the weather changed like it always does in the Southeast. The second named tropical storm of the 2026 Atlantic season has arrived: Bertha. Fortunately for us, those spaghetti strands are all pointing west and not north or east. It looks like Louisiana, midweek, and Texas, this weekend, will bear the brunt of any weather issues. Bertha’s south of PC, going west, so the Redneck Riviera is out; don’t plan on a trip there this weekend. Savannah to Jacksonville is looking good though. Due to the rotation pattern, we are likely to get 1”-3” of rain in metro Atlanta.
Useful Apps:
Keep in mind that in a hurricane, cell phone towers go down.
1. Weather Channel: The Weather Channel app is a comprehensive source for real-time weather updates, alerts, and forecasts. Its detailed radar maps and severe weather alerts can help you track the hurricane’s progress and make timely decisions. The app’s customizable notifications ensure you receive updates specific to your location, which is crucial when conditions are rapidly changing.
2. FEMA App: Provides information on emergency plans and shelters. The app offers a Disaster Resources section that helps you locate nearby shelters and emergency services.
3. Red Cross Emergency: Has instant access to weather alerts, emergency shelter locations, and first aid advice. The app’s “Family Safe” feature allows you to check in with loved ones, which is invaluable when communication lines are down.
4. Zello: Zello is a walkie-talkie app that can be useful when traditional communication methods fail. It allows you to connect with family, friends, and emergency services via instant voice communications. When cell networks are overloaded, Zello can help you stay in touch and coordinate with others effectively.
5. MyRadar” is a weather radar app that provides real-time weather data and storm tracking. Its radar images and weather alerts help you stay ahead of a storm. It lets you track the hurricane’s movement and intensity.
6. Google Maps for navigation when roads are closed or blocked, and you need to find alternates. It also provides real-time traffic updates, road closures, and evacuation routes. Be sure and checkout the offline feature for the times you will lose cell service.
What’s the takeaway from all this?
1- Meteorologists can be fooled. Even with the best of intentions, Mother Nature can throw a curveball. Expect the Unexpected.
2- Especially if you are near the ocean, pay attention to the weather forecasts and keep your Go Bag loaded and ready to go. Definitely have a plan on where to go, how to go, and what to take. There are a number of websites out there that will walk you through the planning. Take advantage of them. Don’t think “it can’t happen to me”, it can and it will.
Thanks, Take Care.
Let Us Know How We Can Help You.
To find more helpful information on hurricane preparations and how severe weather impacts your insurance, check out our other blog posts, and contact us with any questions!
For more information:
https://weather.com/2026/07/19/storms/hurricane/tropical-depression-two-maps-tracker-storm-bertha
https://www.disasterreliefmaps.com/2024/06/the-best-apps-to-have-during-hurricane.html
