Hurricane and Severe Weather Preparedness

Florida is home to an array of natural disasters. Hurricanes and other tropical cyclones, tornadoes, wildfires, and floods regularly affect the Sunshine State’s residents and visitors. Disasters can strike with little warning, wreaking havoc on communities, putting safety at risk, making communication difficult and limiting access to essential services. Being prepared ahead of time helps keep us safe and ensures everyone knows what to do when it matters most. When a natural disaster occurs and disrupts the family routine, safety is the primary focus, but it is important to consider mental health. Preparation is a key element to keeping calm and knowing what to do.

Preparation Tips

Know Your Evacuation Zone and Route (https://www.floridadisaster.org/knowyourzone)
- Familiarize yourself with the local evacuation routes and have a plan in place in case you need to leave your home. Establish a meeting place in case family members get separated during the storm.
- Identify emergency shelter locations in your area.
Prepare
- Fill your car’s gas tank.
- Prepare an emergency kit.
- Plan for pets, including food and water.
Stay Informed: Monitor local weather reports and heed warnings or instructions from local officials to prepare or evacuate.

Hurricanes/Tornadoes

Florida holds the distinction as the most hurricane-impacted state in the U.S. Hurricane season runs from June 1 until November 30, with the peak of hurricane season occurring between mid-August to late October. Hurricanes can be extremely dangerous and may cause significant damage, serious injuries, or loss of life. Most hurricane-related deaths are caused by floods. Tornadoes are often part of a hurricane event or can happen during a storm.

Additional Preparation Tips

Identify a Safe Room
- Choose a small, windowless, interior room on the lowest level of your home to serve as shelter during the hurricane or tornado
Secure Your Home
- Cover windows with storm shutters, bring in or secure outdoor items that could be swept away or damaged, and remove any weak branches from trees.
- Identify how to shut off all utilities in case you evacuate or if there is the need to disconnect on instruction form authorities or a leak (water, gas, electricity).

How to Build an Emergency Kit

Food/Water – minimum 3-day supply
- Water (1-2 gallons per person per day) and non-perishable food that doesn't need to be cooked. (Don’t forget a can opener)
Supplies/Medications (10-day supply)
- First aid supplies (bandages, gauze, antibiotic ointment)
- Flashlights and Batteries, chargers, lighters
- Battery-operated radio
- Important documents (in waterproof bags)
- Cash
- Change of clothes/toiletries, blankets
- Pocket knife or multi-tool, duct tape
- Toilet paper and other sanitary products
- Resealable plastic bags/trash bags
- Diapers/baby wipes
- Pet food and supplies
- Toys or games