For the last 2 years after huricanes in my area, I'd leave a daily message on my voice mail on my cell advising family, friends, etc what conditions were like. Some folks nearby had generators so I kept my cell barely powered up and when the cell company had it's signal, I was able to listen to a few messages at a time. This really relieved all concerned on both ends...especially when I'd get messages from out-of-towners telling me what they viewed on TV enabling me information in my destroyed area.
I personally found it challenging devising and utilizing new ways to keep life simple during the aftermath of a major storm, especially 2 'canes within 3 weeks last year.
What worked best for me and many others was keeping our senses of humor intact.