So here’s what went down when that unexpected storm hit during my Maui trip last month. Woke up to crazy wind noises and saw palm trees doing limbo outside my window. First thought? Freaking out a little, obviously. But then I remembered that big storm prep article I’d skimmed ages ago.
The Panic Phase
Immediately grabbed my phone like a lifeline:
- Checked local alerts (turned on emergency notifications RIGHT THEN)
- Called front desk asking “Where’s the safest spot in this hotel?”
- Resisted the dumb urge to peek outside – flying debris is no joke
Prep Mode Activated
Storm wasn’t leaving yet so I started fortress-building my room:
- Shoved towels under door gaps (wind was whistling like a tea kettle)
- Filled bathtub with water (pressure went out next day – genius move!)
- Piled snacks, meds, flashlights on bed (plus power bank – MVP!)
- Moved mattress away from windows just in case
Pro tip? Wore shoes the whole time. Never know when you gotta bolt.
The Actual Waiting Part
Stared at weather radar updates every 15 minutes like it was Netflix. Texted family my location details. Listened for evacuation orders. Made peace with my crappy vacation timing. Watched terrible hotel TV until the storm knocked out satellite.
Aftermath Sucked (But Preparedness Worked)
Spent 30 hours holed up there. When we finally got the all-clear? Flooded parking lot, downed power lines everywhere. Stuck without electricity for two extra days. BUT my prep meant:
- Had water for brushing teeth/washing
- Power bank kept phone alive for updates
- Granola bars saved us from $25 resort muffins
Biggest win? The front desk guy telling me “You’re the only one who asked about basement access beforehand.” Guess who felt smug despite soggy shoes?
Would I prefer spa days over disaster prep? Absolutely. But traveling means rolling with nature’s punches. Pack those power banks like your sanity depends on it – because it totally does.
