Batten down the hatches, folks! With a hurricane on it's way for an estimated 50 million Americans,a short list of 5 must have foods to assemble before the weather hits.
When you are getting ready for bad weather, it is important to have foods that provide sustenance and comfort. You may not have power and/or water for a period of time, so cooking is probably not going to be easy. Having some things ready can provide a measure of peace while you wait out the storm.
5 must have foods for a hurricane:
Brownies or baked goods - Nothing brings comfort like fudgy chocolate. Make a batch while you are waiting for the storm to hit. Heck, make two batches.
Canned goods - Trying to cook might be a problem for at least a few hours, but if you have canned food (home canned or store bought) you can warm it up via a gas burner or camp stove, your grill can even work as a makeshift stove in a pinch.
Crackers and cheese - No, you are not recreating a party, but crackers and cheese will provide not only delicious treat, but it can be at room temperature for a short period of time, safely.
Something tasty to drink - Fill your containers with water before the storm hits, so you have water available while the power is out. Plain and herbal tea both taste good at room temperature.
Not food but important - Something to do. When we lived in Montana, losing power for extended periods was commonplace. I used to read the Little House on The Prairie series to my kids, bay candle light. We still talk about those times. Now is the time to charge up your eReaders, get out the magazines and stack the chapter books. A deck of cards and a simple board game will also help pass the time.
Of course, there are basic emergency lists that you should be following. For more info on emergency preparedness, see the government's recommendations.
Stay safe!