Study the Local Terrain and Seasonal Weather Patterns

Get to know your local environment, because it will be your life line, your resource base and your safe place. The more you know about your neighborhood and surrounding area, the easier it will be for you when that time comes, because you are already informed. 

Every prepper should know their local terrain, average seasonal temperatures and weather patterns, for the year and take detailed notes. 

Learn where the rivers and natural water sources flow, know which roads flood, what areas freeze first, where the nut trees are and where you can find natural shelter. Take walks and hikes to get to know your region and take notes on;

• elevation changes
• wind funnels
• wildlife corridors
• potential choke points
• where the sun rises and sets
• how shadows move
• where to find south-facing slopes, for warmth. 

Understand seasonal shifts;

• when storms are most likely to hit
• how long snow fall lasts
• when the leave start to change
• how long it takes for all leaves to fall

Track wind patterns and know which way smoke or sound will carry. Learn about the different weather in different areas, in your city or town such as; 

• urban heat zones
• frost pockets
• if there are any rain shadows. 

Mark everything, with plain details, on a map. 

How to Read the Terrain and Hunt for Food

A paper map is best because you can look at it for as long as you need, without the risk of draining your phone battery.

When everyone else is panicking, you will be looking at the land like it's your guidebook. Nature doesn’t care about your shortcomings, it rewards those who have trained to adapt to it. 

Knowing the terrain around you isn’t just for discovering shortcuts to the store, it’s there to help you find a way to supply you and your loved ones with different ways to endure your hardship. 

Know your surrounding area and you’ll always have a real advantage over most people.