1. Back Up Your Data to the Cloud

Ensure all critical data is backed up to an offsite or cloud location to prevent data loss.

Offsite & Cloud Backups: Ensure all critical data is backed up to an offsite or cloud-based storage system,

like AWS, Azure, One Drive, Dropbox, or another cloud provider.

2. Test Your Backup Systems

Before departing, make sure to test your backups to ensure you can restore them quickly if needed.

What good is it to have backups if you have never tried to restore them.

3. Secure Physical Hardware

Move servers, PCs and critical hardware to safe locations within the building. If feasible, elevate them to reduce

flood damage risks. Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS): Ensure all critical systems are connected to UPS

devices to allow graceful shutdowns in case of power loss. Power Surge Protection: Use surge protectors for

all IT equipment to guard against power spikes.

4. Set Up Remote Access

Remote Access Setup: Configure remote access for employees using VPNs and cloud services to ensure work

can continue if office premises are closed or damaged.

5. Create an IT Communication Plan

Share emergency contacts and communication tools with your IT team to stay connected.

Prepare and distribute a list of key IT staff, vendors (e.g., internet providers, cloud service providers), and emergency service numbers.

Set up multiple communication methods (SMS, email, Slack, etc.) for key personnel to stay in touch.

6. Perform a Graceful System Shutdown

Plan and execute a shutdown of non-essential systems before the storm hits to avoid damage.

7.  During the Hurricane Monitor Your IT Systems Remotely

Detect if your office has lost power by using monitoring tools to track your systems and servers during the hurricane to maintain visibility.

8. Cybersecurity during the Storm: Secure Your Network with VPNs and MFA

Ensure that all remote work is secure with VPNs and multi-factor authentication to protect sensitive data. A lot of times during last

minute changes we forget to secure our network. Criminals don't care if you are in a emergency, actual it's the complete opposite

they try to take advantage.

9. Evaluate Hardware Post-Storm

Once it's safe, check for any damage to hardware and restore essential systems first.

10. Update Your Disaster Recovery Plan

Review your process after the storm and make improvements for the future.