AAA: Oklahoma Travelers Bound for East Coast Should Prepare Now as Hurricane Florence Takes Aim

Travelers should use the next few days to plan wisely

September 11, 2018 – Oklahomans planning travel east for business or pleasure later this week will need to be on high alert. Hurricane Florence is gaining strength and taking aim at the East Coast, according to the National Hurricane Center.

“Two life-threatening impacts from Florence—storm surge at the coast and freshwater flooding from a prolonged heavy rainfall event inland – may also impact airports and travel of all types from South Carolina into the mid-Atlantic region,” Leslie Gamble, AAA Oklahoma spokesperson, said.

While it is too soon to determine the exact timing, location and magnitude of these impacts, those planning travel should use the next few days to prepare for the possibility of travel delays and cancellations, according to Gamble.

AAA offers the following tips for travelers who may be impacted by Hurricane Florence:

Contact your travel agent: He/she has access to the latest travel updates/cancellations and can help you explore all options available to you.

Investigate cancellation/re-booking options NOW: Plan ahead, understanding the situation may change quickly as the storm approaches. Investigate cancellation requirements and penalties, if applicable.

Travel insurance: Know what coverage any purchased travel insurance does/does not provide.

Air Travel: Check your airline flight status before leaving for the airport.

Accommodations: Check with your hotel for local updates on the storm’s impact.

Travel Funds: Have emergency funds available for hotel stays, food, and basic necessities - check all credit card available credit limits and expiration dates. The storm will likely cause an increase in East Coast gas prices during and immediately after the storm if the hurricane follows its projected path.

Medications: Carry enough medication in your carry-one luggage for two to three times the length of your trip.

Child/Pet Care: Arrange emergency back-up child and/or pet care as applicable. Carry all applicable contact information with you and not in luggage checked for airline travel.

Home Access: Leave a house key with a trusted friend or relative and carry their telephone number with you. This person can take care of any home care essentials, mail, and/or access information you may need if your time away is extended.

Bills: Take care of critical items/bills which are due immediately upon your return BEFORE YOU GO - examples: mortgage payments, tuition bills, school registrations, college applications, legal documents, etc.

Miscellaneous: Carry important numbers with you for any one you might need to contact to advise your delay - examples: doctor’s appointments, jury duty, court appearance, etc.

Monitor: Continuously monitor the situation as things can quickly and dramatically change. Heed all evacuation advisories and/or orders.

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