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Congratulations on your move to the South. You’re about to enter an area that’s rich in history. Yet, it maintains a cosmopolitan feel in many areas.
If you’re coming from the North, things might feel a little different when you arrive. Not only in the environment but also with the people. For those who come from northern metropolitan areas, the shift can be somewhat jarring.
To help, here are a few things to prepare for in your move to the South.
Heat & Humidity
On the one hand, the South had mild winters. For example, the average January high in Houston is in the 60s. Therefore, you may not need to take your winter coat and boots along in your move.
To counteract this, the summers are hot and humid. Going back to Houston, average daytime temperatures range from the high 80s to low 90s. When you factor in the humidity, it can feel much hotter.
While you may have humidity where you currently live, it can reach high levels in the South without a break for rain. So, make sure your vehicle’s air conditioner is in order.
Insects
With the high humidity comes a variety of insects. Some, like lightning bugs, are harmless. Others, like mosquitos, are downright relentless. They also tend to be bigger as well.
Where once these insects would simply cause you to itch, there’s now the risk of West Nile Virus to contend with. Thus, once you move into your new home, a mosquito control Houston, TX company might need to be researched.
Time Change
This is for those in the North who live in the Eastern time zone. A move to a southern state like Georgia or Florida will keep you in that range. However, once you move east, you enter the Central time zone.
This is one-hour behind the East Coast. Though it’s only a 60-minute difference, it can affect your timing during the first few weeks of adjustment. You might be early for some things and late for others. You’ll eventually settle into a regular pattern that will make you think Northeasterners are the weird ones.
A Slower Pace
Though there are plenty of modern cities and suburbs in the South, events, and people don’t move as fast. Perhaps it’s due to the heat and humidity. It could also be the general attitude. Needless to say, people take their time.
In the end, this might be good for your family. If you had a hectic schedule in your original location, an opportunity to slow down can give you all a breather. Also, it will help you connect again as a family.
Weather
Weather can be powerful in the South. What you can see depends where you live. For example, the spring and early summer can bring strong tornadoes to parts of the region. From June until November, coastal areas are on alert for hurricanes.
Before you move to the South, find out the weather patterns in your new home. Then, prepare for events like you would for a snowstorm. Have flashlights, extra batteries, and at least three days of food & water available in case the power goes out. Furthermore, educate yourself on the evacuation routes that take you away from vulnerable coastal regions.
Your move South will be both exciting and interesting. Overall, take things slow. Do research ahead of time to find out what you’ll encounter. When you arrive, you’ll have some sense of the environment and the culture of your new home.