Potential Hurricane coming - how long can I keep my chickens locked up without their food or water?

[WingItRanch]

We just went through Hurricane Beryl and I did not lock the chickens up. They had full access to the run with food and water. At one point, the wind got a little crazy and the pullets and cockerel decided to go up into the coop for shelter but they all shuffled right out after a bit. I personally recommend not locking them up inside if you have a run for them. They're hardy animals and will know when to seek shelter.

 

[paintedChix]

How did you do through the Hurricane?

 

[ForFlocksSake]

How did you do through the Hurricane?

I ended up putting food and water in there. We were in the path of both major hurricanes this season and I did that both times. The first one (the one I made this post about) I lost one chicken. My Polish girl was dead in the coop when I went out to check on them after it passed. No idea what happened to her, but it was pretty devastating. Could have been completely unrelated to the storm, or she could have been scared to death. she didnt have any signs of an injury and we checked her thoroughly. Ill never know what happened to her.The second storm everyone was just fine. Hoping next hurricane season spares us so I dont have to worry about it again.