Empty store shelves are a common sight wherever people may be preparing for a potential disaster. But in Louisiana, there’s one must-have item it appears is on nearly everyone’s list: alcohol.
A new survey shows 43% of Louisiana residents admit to purchasing wines and spirits when forecasters predict a storm. Cinch Home Services, a home warranty company, conducted the survey.
Overall, 32% of people say alcohol was on their hurricane preparedness list. Shoppers reported spending about $52 on libations. Louisianians spent about $5 less, while Texans spend $26 more.
The survey’s authors did note that hurricane parties are not encouraged. Safety is paramount and people need to remain alert during a weather event. “Hurricane parties are never a good idea,” said Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards. “They need to spend their time preparing for [the] hurricane.”
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts the 2021 hurricane season to arrive earlier and be more severe. A spokesman said there’s a 60% chance this year will be above the average 14 storms. Scientists say climate change is contributing to the increased number of storms churning in the Atlantic Ocean basin.
While Hurricane Katrina remains the costliest storm in history, five of the 10 most damaging and expensive storms occurred within the last decade.
