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Every year, without fail, I find myself scrambling when severe weather hits—and it usually comes down to one thing: not being as prepared as I thought.
Even in places like Arizona (where you might not expect it), monsoon storms, wildfires and extreme heat regularly lead to flash flooding, grid strain and unexpected power outages. And the truth is, this isn’t just a regional issue—blackouts are becoming more common across the U.S., especially during extreme weather events.
As a professional shopping expert, I’m always the one friends and family call when a storm is on the way. And after years of trial and error, I’ve learned that having the right essentials ahead of time—not after—makes all the difference.
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Whether you're bracing for a heat wave, heavy storm or winter freeze, here’s exactly what I recommend keeping in your home right now.
Shop power outage essentials before an emergency
Portable chargers and generators, First Aid kits and shelf-stable food are among the most recommended power outage essentials you'll want to have at the ready in your home.
Emergency Crank Weather Radio
Emergency Crank Weather Radio
When severe weather strikes or the power goes out, this emergency weather radio can help you stay informed and connected.
It combines NOAA weather alerts, AM/FM radio, a bright three-mode flashlight, reading lamp, hand-crank charging and solar power in one compact device designed for emergencies.
Blavor Solar Power Bank
Blavor Solar Power Bank
This best-selling Blavor solar power bank combines a 10,000mAh battery, wireless charging, USB-C fast charging and solar backup charging in one compact device.
Its rugged, travel-friendly design makes it a smart addition to emergency kits, go-bags, and everyday carry setups.
Amazon Basics 108-Count Battery Variety Pack
Amazon Basics 108-Count Battery Variety Pack
When storm warnings roll in or the power suddenly goes out, having the right batteries is key.
This Amazon Basics battery variety pack includes 108 alkaline batteries across multiple sizes, making it easy to keep flashlights, weather radios, smoke detectors, toys and other household essentials powered during emergencies.
Emergency Mylar Thermal Blankets
QIO CHUANG Emergency Mylar Thermal Blankets
When the temperature drops unexpectedly, this is the kind of item you’ll wish you had before you need it.
These ultra-lightweight emergency blankets are designed to trap body heat and help regulate temperature fast, making them a smart add to any power outage or storm kit.
All-Purpose Portable Compact First Aid Kit
All-Purpose Portable Compact First Aid Kit
Severe weather should be treated like any emergency situation, where you'll want to have all the essentials in case of an accident; this handy First Aid Kit will do just the trick.
Coleman Chiller 16-Quart Portable Cooler
Coleman Chiller 16-Quart Portable Cooler
A dependable cooler can help keep food, drinks and medications cold when refrigeration isn't an option.
The Coleman Chiller 16-quart cooler is designed with ice retention in mind, helping keep essentials chilled for road trips, camping adventures and unexpected emergencies.
AquaPodKit Emergency Bathtub Water Storage
AquaPodKit Emergency Bathtub Water Storage
If you're worried about a lack of water access, this emergency kit holds over 65 gallons and doubles as the perfect water storage solution going into a severe storm.
LHKNL Headlamp Flashlight
LHKNL Headlamp Flashlight
No power, no problem! These stretchy headlamps slide on smooth and emit bright light, so you'll be able to move about your space easily in the event of a power outage.
Jisulife 3-in-1 Handheld Mini Fan
Jisulife 3-in-1 Handheld Mini Fan
When the power goes out during a summer storm, staying cool can quickly become a challenge.
This Jisulife handheld fan does more than provide a refreshing breeze—it also doubles as a power bank and flashlight, making it a surprisingly useful emergency preparedness tool
Marbero Portable Power Station
Marbero Portable Power Station
When your power goes out, you'll be glad to have this portable power station handy; it's fast-charging, compact and equipped with eight output ports.
Frost King V73/9H Indoor Shrink Window Kit
Frost King V73/9H Indoor Shrink Window Kit
If your home loses heat fast during a storm or outage, this simple upgrade can make a noticeable difference.
This window kit adds an extra layer of insulation, helping to keep warm air in and cold drafts out—exactly what you want when temps drop and your heating options are limited.
Why are power outages likely during severe storms?
Power outages are often caused by high winds, heavy rain, flooding or extreme heat, all of which can damage infrastructure or overload the electrical grid.
Utility and weather experts consistently warn that outages are most likely during peak weather events—when demand is high and conditions are unpredictable.
What should I have for a power outage?
In the event of a power outage, there are a couple emergency storm essentials you'll want to make sure you have handy. If you build one emergency kit, make it this:
- At least one gallon of water per person, per day (recommended by the American Red Cross)
- Back-up power source (portable charger or generator)
- Emergency lighting (lanterns, flashlights, headlamps)
- Thermal blankets or warm layers
- First aid kit
- Shelf-stable food
Additionally, organizations like the American Red Cross recommend having "one gallon of drinking water per day per person" in the event of a weather emergency, as well as shelf-stable foods.
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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: I learned the hard way—here are the power outage essentials you need
