Is there any hive preparation that can be done for this storm? In the Florida panhandle it looks like the worst of it will miss me....but asking just in case it "wobbles" west.
No stranger to tropical cyclones (hurricanes) I would say the best option
is to move them out, but as we know sometimes a 100mile in whatever
heading is not far enough :-/
If they can be shutdown and moved into the lee side of a substantial building
they will get just half the full impact. They still need the full tiedown
but impact from debris is well lessened.
If they cannot be moved?
1. make sure all box penetrations are open and free flowing for air
2. wrap boxes in old blankets, or canvas, or at least poly tarp
3. assuming stands are in place, lock those down
4. tie down each hive individually
5. make sure your chainsaw is a goer with a sharp chain
Tiedowns consist of a strap and minimum three anchor points at ground,
the finish on each hive resembling a rough tripod design I found very
effective, but a well tensioned ground to ground strap over the top with a
spreader bar on the lid survived TC Larry (cat4) and was done in a huge hurry.
Straps are best metal - 8gauge plain fence wire or 5/16 wire rope were my
staples. Anchors I have used were star pickets with a sprinkling of old truck
axles for strainer points.
Any damage I had was from flying debri, hence the chainsaw and a quick fix
immediately after the storm passing. Bee ready to bee stung, bigtime.
Then again you can do nothing. It is rather eerie how when it is all done
and dusted you walk out the door to see your neighbours house flattened
by the roof off the home three doors up, your back neighbour's caravan on it's
side up against his shed.... and your bees off to forage.
.... did I say I love cyclones? They clean out the crap and generate huge
amounts of work, well paid. What _you_ must do is make sure you and yours
survive them.
good luck.
Bill
