Bees and Severe Weather

[bwallace23350]

This question my be apt with out first tropical system of the year. I live far enough off the coast not to get Hurricane winds but 50-60 mph winds are not uncommon from strong storms. In the event I am unlucky to face such a storm this year what precautions should I take?

[iddee]

Stakes in the ground and straps over the hive.

[KeyLargoBees]

I strap the stands to the ground and then the hives to the stands....but it depends on your setup...I also run screened bottoms and I put the IPM boards in to minimize rain and debris blowing up into the hives.

[BeeMaster2]

I strap my hives to the stand, I have a board screwed under the 2X4s at each hive location for this purpose. If it will be really high winds, I will add anchors in the ground and strap down the 2 end hives to keep the entire stand and hives from falling over. My stands are 2 2x4s spaced 19" apart, front to back for maximum stability. This just leaves an inch in the back over hanging to test the weight of the hives. Not when strapped. 
Jim

[KeyLargoBees]

i need to add that I don't strap anything down until weather is pending...its just all set up and ready to go...I did opt for my 2x4 to be slightly closer together than Jim (frame rest width) and high enough so I can set a frame into the stand  as needed and I dont have to worry about frames on the group or leaning any longer.