Step-by-step response
7 days before: Stockpile suppliesBattery air pumps (1 per 50g), spare batteries (D-cell, 6+), RODI water (40 gallons), salt mix, food, dechlorinator, test kits.
3 days before: Top off + testTop off ATO. Test all parameters. Do a 30% water change to baseline. Resolve any equipment issues NOW.
24 hours before: Final prepMove tank away from windows. Tighten lid clamps (jumpers escape during outages). Charge phone battery banks. Locate aquarium-grade backup heater.
During storm: Run on backupsBattery air pumps for oxygen. Generator if available (run heater + powerhead). Don't open the tank lid - retains heat + moisture.
Storm passes: InspectCheck structural integrity of room/house. Test tank parameters. Watch for leaks from wall vibration.
Post-storm: Bio-filter recoveryTest ammonia + nitrite every 6 hours for 48 hours. Bio-filter may have died from extended outage. Don't feed for 24-48 hours. Slow recovery.