There are certain forces of nature we have no control over, such as the pull of gravity or the excruciatingly long lines at the DMV. Another uncontrollable factor that affects our lives is the weather and the potential for weather fatalities. When Mother Nature's in a foul mood, conditions can get downright deadly.

With rain and harsh weather being one of the prevalent themes this issue, we decided to take a closer look at the U.S. Natural Hazard Statistics. The National Weather Service collects this data by tracking fatalities in the United States caused by weather in nine different categories, including tornadoes and hurricanes. It also records fatalities, injuries, and other damage caused by weather-related hazards.

Making plans and preparations on how best to deal with the weather can keep you and your loved ones safe. Looking at how many people have lost their lives due to meteorological conditions serves as a reminder to take the forecasts seriously.

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Just by taking a quick glance at the graph above, you can see which types of weather can play a role in meeting your maker. The top three contenders over nine years (2004-2013) racking up the highest mortality rate are heat tornados, hurricanes, and heat related weather fatalities. Of course, succumbing to the weather depends on your present location, but it helps to highlight that the forces of nature are not to be ignored.

There are plenty of ways you can prepare for the inevitable harsh weather event, from extreme heat inducing blackouts to frigid blizzard conditions, and anywhere in between. Whichever strategy you decide to use to prepare, it pays to look up the data available in your area. By looking into what you will be most affected by, the safety and well being of you and your loved ones can be better protected.

Sources
National Weather Service – www.weather.gov
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration – www.noaa.gov

Written by Offgrid Staff