Hurricanes are massive storm systems that form over the water and can move toward land. Threats from hurricanes include high winds, heavy rainfall, storm surge, coastal and inland flooding, rip currents, and tornadoes.

They cause a significant amount of damage and can result in injuries and loss of life. Almost 50% of deaths associated with hurricanes are caused by storm surge; 40% of deaths are due to inland flooding and around 10% are wind-related. 

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, with the peak occurring between mid-August and late October.

Before A Hurricane

Preparedness Tips

• Know Where To Go. If you are ordered to evacuate, identify hurricane evacuation routes near you, plan to leave early, and locate multiple places you can stay.
• Put together a Go-Bag or Disaster Supply Kit. Include a flashlight, batteries, cash, first aid supplies, medications, and copies of your critical information
• Not in an Evacuation Zone? Obtain adequate supplies in case you lose power and water for several days. You may not be able to leave due to flooding or blocked roads.
• Make a Family Emergency Plan.
• Sign Up for Code Red Alerts.

Prepare Your Home

• Hurricane winds can cause trees and branches to fall, so before hurricane season trim or remove damaged trees and limbs to keep you and your property safe.
• Secure loose rain gutters and downspouts and clear any clogged areas or debris to prevent water damage to your property.
• Reduce property damage by retrofitting to secure and reinforce the roof, windows, and doors, including the garage doors.
• Purchase a portable generator or install a generator for use during power outages.
  • Keep generators and other alternate power/heat sources outside.
  • At least 20 feet away from windows and doors.
  • Protect them from moisture.
  • Never try to power the house wiring by plugging a generator into a wall outlet.
• Consider building a FEMA safe room or ICC 500 storm shelter designed for protection from high-winds and in locations above flooding levels.  

Hurricane Watch

Hurricane Watch = conditions possible within the next 48 hrs.

Steps to take:

• Review your evacuation routes & listen to local officials.
• Check items in your disaster supply kit.
• Obtain any items needed to meet unique household needs for children, parents, individuals with disabilities, individuals with access and functional needs, or pets.

Hurricane Warning

Hurricane Warning = conditions are expected within 36 hrs.

Steps to take:

• Follow evacuation orders from local officials.
• Check-in with family and friends by texting or using social media.
• Execute Your Plan.

36 Hours From Storm Arrival - What To Do

• Turn on your TV or radio and listen for the latest weather updates and emergency instructions.
• Build or restock your emergency preparedness kit. Include food and water sufficient for at least three days, medications, a flashlight, batteries, cash, and first aid supplies.
• Plan how to communicate with family members if you lose power. For example, you can call, text, email or use social media. Remember that during disasters, sending text messages is usually reliable and faster than making phone calls because phone lines are often overloaded.
• Review your evacuation plan with your family. You may have to leave quickly so plan ahead.
• Keep your car in good working condition.
• Fill your vehicle's gas tank.
• Stock your vehicle with emergency supplies and a change of clothes.

18-36 Hours From Storm Arrival - What To Do

• Bring loose, lightweight objects inside that could become projectiles in high winds such as patio furniture and garbage cans.
• Anchor objects that would be unsafe to bring inside such as propane tanks.
• Trim or remove trees close enough to fall on the building.
• Cover all of your home’s windows.
  • Permanent storm shutters offer the best protection for windows.
  • An alternative is to board up windows with 5/8” exterior grade or marine plywood, cut to fit.

6-18 Hours From Storm Arrival - What To Do

• Turn on your TV and radio to obtain current weather and emergency information.
• Charge your cell phone and extra battery power packs.

6 Hours From Storm Arrival - What To Do

• Let friends and family know where you are if you do not live in an evacuation zone and you plan to stay at home.
• Close storm shutters, stay away from windows, and shelter in an interior windowless room.
  • Flying glass from broken windows can cause injuries.
• Turn your refrigerator and freezer to the coldest setting and open only when necessary.
  • Food will last longer if there is a power outage.
  • Keep a thermometer in the refrigerator to check the food temperature when the power is restored.
• Turn on your TV and radio for the latest weather updates and emergency instructions.

After A Hurricane

• Listen to local officials for updates and instructions.
• Check-in with family and friends by texting or using social media.
• Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe.
• Watch out for and avoid debris and downed power lines.
• Do not walk or drive through flood waters.
  • Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of fast-moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
  • Flood water may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines.
  • Flood water can hide dangerous debris or places where the ground is washed away.
• Photograph the damage to your property in order to assist in filing an insurance claim.
• Do what you can to prevent further damage to your property (e.g. put a tarp on a damaged roof), as insurance may not cover additional damage that occurs after the storm.