How to Protect Your Heart During Storms Like Hurricane Milton—Tips From a Cardiologist

When the threat of severe weather looms, what's the first thing you do? You might rush to the store to stock up on essentials like milk and bread, or you may think, “Another storm… it’ll be over in a few hours if it happens at all," and continue with your day. However, planning appropriately can make the difference between thriving and just getting by in potentially disastrous weather conditions. This was and is still especially evident during recent severe weather events like Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton, which continue to bring unexpected flooding, property damages and widespread power outages as of publication. For individuals with heart conditions, the stress and challenges of enduring such storms can become even more dangerous.

To help you better prepare, we spoke to cardiologist Dr. Jayne Morgan about the health risks of underestimating severe weather’s impact. Dr. Morgan is a cardiologist at the Piedmont Healthcare Corporation in Atlanta, Georgia — the largest healthcare system in the state — and understands what it takes to function effectively in times of crisis. Here, Dr. Morgan shares how you can create a plan to protect yourself and your loved ones during weather emergencies.

How does severe weather affect health?

“When disasters like hurricanes and tornadoes strike, we see about a 22 percent increase in heart attacks within the first one or two weeks,” says Dr. Morgan. She explains that this spike occurs because those with pre-existing heart conditions are under more stress while sheltering in place. And it doesn’t end there: “People may have to walk more due to road closures, haul debris, or even cook outdoors — all of which require more physical effort. Around seven weeks post-disaster, we see another rise in heart attacks, which generally corresponds with people beginning to realize the true extent of their losses, such as loss of life, income, or property.”

Why should women be extra cautious during severe weather?

Dr. Morgan emphasizes that women must be particularly vigilant when monitoring heart attack symptoms, as they often differ from men’s symptoms. “Women’s symptoms are usually more subtle, making them easier to overlook. This is one reason women tend to seek medical care later, making their first heart attack more fatal,” she explains.

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She notes that women’s symptoms may not mirror the dramatic, crushing pain and fainting heart attacks that you see on TV—in fact, our symptoms can be easily mistaken for normal age-related aches and pains in the back, shoulder, or jaw. She also notes that a primary symptom for women is fatigue, but because many women are used to feeling tired, they don’t get medical attention for it.

“You could actually be having warning symptoms of a heart attack, but they can easily be confused with any number of everyday aches and pains," Dr. Morgan says. "You may ask yourself, ‘Why don't I have any energy?’ You can think of 500 stressors that are weighing on you, when in fact, it's equal to the crushing chest pain and shortness of breath that men often present with, which gets them to the hospital quicker. Women may delay that treatment because the symptoms are not as clear."

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Dr. Morgan also says that women delay treatment because they’re used to putting others first. “Often women put themselves last, especially if they have families," she notes. "We take care of other people. We tend to not focus as much on ourselves. Women tend to be the caregivers — even working women in families. And so we have to make certain that we pay attention to even the subtle signs and symptoms of our bodies, because small changes could portend bigger problems.”

This all means that in the event of a disaster, women must be even more vigilant. “If your home has been hit by a tornado, hurricane, or earthquake, and you find that you are tired and have back pain, you're not thinking that you have a heart attack; you're thinking that you are feeling the stress of having to manage the situation,” says Dr. Morgan. But, instead of immediately attributing your pain to external factors, try to be mindful. In the words of tennis legend and breast cancer survivor Martina Navratilova , “self-care is not selfish.” It’s vital.

Health factors to consider before sheltering in place

While evacuation may be the safest option in a disaster, many people choose to shelter in place. Here are two crucial considerations if you decide to stay:

• The Aftermath : “The event might pass, but the aftermath could last weeks, and many are unprepared for that,” says Dr. Morgan. “Without access to pharmacies, physicians, and even roads, those with serious conditions like heart disease or high blood pressure may face life-threatening challenges.”

• Aging : “You might feel experienced in handling disasters, but you’re also getting older,” Dr. Morgan points out. “You handled previous storms when you were younger and healthier. Now, at 65, your body may not cope the same way.”

How to prepare to shelter in place

If you’re staying put during a storm, follow these steps to protect your health:

• Stock up on medications : “Ensure you have at least a 30-day supply of all medications,” Dr. Morgan advises. “If you’re low, ask your physician for a special prescription."

• Brush up on First Aid skills : “Consider taking a first aid course and adding aspirin to your kit—it can help thin blood if you’re having a heart attack,” she suggests. Also, make sure to have enough food and water for five days and secure a power source for medical equipment.

Taking these precautions can ease your worries, giving you peace of mind in the midst of uncertainty. Stay aware and proactive, and you can keep yourself and your loved ones safe.

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