Hurricane Preparedness Resources
2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season: June 1 through November 30
Before a Hurricane
Know Your Hurricane Risk
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Hurricanes can impact areas far beyond the coast. Heavy rain, strong winds, flooding, and tornadoes may occur many miles inland after a storm makes landfall. Preparing ahead of time can help keep your household safe.
Make an Emergency Plan
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Talk with everyone in your household about what to do before, during, and after a hurricane.
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Consider any additional assistance that may be needed for older adults, individuals with disabilities, children, or pets.
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Businesses should also have continuity plans in place to help maintain operations during emergencies.
Know your Evacuation Zone
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If you live in an evacuation zone, be ready to leave quickly if local officials issue an evacuation order.
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Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes, practice your plan with your household, and decide where you would stay if evacuation becomes necessary.
Stay Alert to Warnings and Updates
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Have multiple ways to receive emergency notifications and weather alerts.
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Sign up for local alerts and monitor updates from trusted sources, including the National Weather Service and local emergency management officials.
Review Important Documents
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Check that insurance policies, identification, and other essential records are current. Store copies securely in a protected digital location or waterproof container.
Prepare your Home
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Clear gutters and drains, secure or bring inside outdoor furniture, and consider installing storm shutters or other protective measures.
Get Tech Ready
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Keep phones and essential electronics charged when a storm is approaching. Backup batteries and portable chargers can help if power outages occur.
Build an Emergency Supply Kit
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Keep phones and essential electronics charged when a storm is approaching. Backup batteries and portable chargers can help if power outages occur.
Help your Neighborhood
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Check in with neighbors, older adults, or anyone who may need extra assistance preparing for severe weather.
During a Hurricane
Stay Informed
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Continue following updates from local officials and weather agencies.
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If evacuation orders are issued, leave immediately and follow designated routes.
Protect Yourself from Wind & Flooding
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Move to a designated storm shelter or an interior room away from windows during high winds.
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If flooding occurs and you become trapped, move to the highest safe level of the building but avoid enclosed attic spaces where rising water could trap you.
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Take refuge in a designated storm shelter or an interior room for high winds.
Avoid Flood Waters
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Never walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters. Turn Around. Don’t Drown! Just six inches of fast-moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
After a Hurricane
Follow Guidance from Local Officials
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Wait for authorities to announce when it is safe to return home or resume normal activities.
Use Caution During Cleanup
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Wear protective clothing, gloves, and face coverings when handling debris or cleaning mold. Cleanup conditions may present health and safety hazards.
Stay Away from Electrical Hazards
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Do not touch wet electrical equipment or downed power lines. If it is safe, turn off electricity at the breaker box to reduce the risk of electric shock.
Avoid Floodwater Contact
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Floodwater may contain sewage, chemicals, debris, wildlife, and hidden electrical hazards. Avoid wading through standing water whenever possible.