All over the coast they seem to pop up with a storm arrives, but instead of booze, marijuana might be better.
The season is in full swing and the first big storm has formed. But when a hurricane barrels toward the coast, many communities turn to a surprisingly time-honored ritual — the hurricane party. Neighbors gather, share food, and ride out the storm together. While alcohol has long been a staple at such gatherings, more people are discovering cannabis can be a calmer, safer, and even more practical choice during the long hours of waiting.
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Alcohol can quickly dull reaction time, cloud judgment, and lead to risky decisions. During a hurricane, when conditions can change in an instant, maintaining some clarity is crucial. Cannabis, depending on dosage and strain, generally produces less severe physical impairment, allowing partygoers to stay more aware of weather updates and ready to act if the situation changes. This can make it easier to pivot if evacuation or immediate action becomes necessary.
Hurricanes are stressful — the combination of howling winds, pounding rain, and uncertainty about damage can fray nerves. Cannabis is known for its ability to ease anxiety for many users, helping replace tension with a sense of calm. relaxation can make a big difference in the group atmosphere, fostering connection and keeping panic at bay while the storm rages outside.
One of the most common consequences of a hurricane isn’t direct destruction, but power outages. Without air conditioning, refrigeration, or even a fan, sleeping can be miserable. Cannabis can help induce restful sleep despite heat, humidity, and noise, which is a welcome relief when you’re trying to rest in the middle of an extended blackout. Unlike alcohol — which often disrupts deep sleep — cannabis can help users get the restorative rest they need to stay alert and resilient.
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In many major storms, the majority of residents in affected zones lose electricity for hours or even days. After Hurricane Irma in 2017, millions in Florida endured days without power in sweltering late-summer heat. In one infamous incident, a large apartment building’s backup generator failed, leaving dozens of residents trapped in elevators and hallways with no light, AC, or communication — a sobering reminder hurricanes often test endurance more than anything else.
In that environment, staying relatively clear-headed, managing anxiety, and getting some rest can be more valuable than chasing the buzz of strong drinks. While every hurricane party is unique, those choosing cannabis over alcohol often find they’re better able to ride out the storm calmly — and remember it clearly when the skies finally clear.
