Hurricane Season

Written By Robert Kunkle

Planning for Hurricane Season in Florida

Hurricane season in Florida runs from June 1st to November 30th, with peak activity typically between August and October. Preparing for potential storms is essential to ensure the safety of your family, home, and property. This guide outlines practical steps to help Floridians plan effectively for hurricane season.

Understand the Risks

Florida’s geography makes it particularly vulnerable to hurricanes, with coastal areas at risk of storm surges and inland regions facing heavy rain and wind. Familiarize yourself with your area’s risk level:

  • Check Flood Zones: Use FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center or local government resources to determine if your property is in a flood-prone area.

  • Evacuation Routes: Know your county’s evacuation routes and zones. Visit floridadisaster.org for detailed maps.

  • Historical Data: Review past hurricane impacts in your area to anticipate potential threats.

Build an Emergency Kit

A well-stocked emergency kit is critical for surviving potential power outages or evacuation. Include the following items:

  • Water: At least one gallon per person per day for 3–7 days.

  • Non-Perishable Food: A 3–7 day supply, such as canned goods, protein bars, or dried fruits.

  • First Aid Kit: Bandages, antiseptic wipes, medications, and medical supplies.

  • Flashlights and Batteries: Ensure you have extra batteries for all devices.

  • Important Documents: Copies of IDs, insurance policies, and medical records in waterproof containers.

  • Other Essentials: Blankets, clothing, hygiene items, cash, and a battery-powered or hand-crank radio.

Protect Your Property

Take proactive steps to minimize damage to your home:

  • Install Storm Shutters or Plywood: Protect windows and glass doors from high winds and debris. Contact your local handyman if you need help with this.

  • Reinforce Your Roof: Ensure your roof is secured with hurricane straps or clips.

  • Trim Trees: Remove dead branches and weak trees that could fall during a storm.

  • Secure Outdoor Items: Store or anchor lawn furniture, grills, and other loose items.

  • Elevate Appliances: If possible, raise appliances above potential flood levels in flood-prone areas.

Develop a Communication Plan

Storms can disrupt communication networks, so plan ahead:

  • Emergency Contacts: Share a list of contacts with family members, including local authorities and out-of-state relatives.

  • Meeting Points: Designate safe meeting locations in case you’re separated.

  • Stay Informed: Monitor updates from the National Hurricane Center (NHC) or local news via a NOAA weather radio or mobile apps like the FEMA app.

Review Insurance Coverage

Hurricanes can cause significant financial loss, so ensure your insurance is up to date:

  • Homeowners Insurance: Confirm coverage for wind damage and review exclusions.

  • Flood Insurance: Standard policies don’t cover flooding. Purchase flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private insurers, noting the 30-day waiting period.

  • Document Possessions: Take photos or videos of your home’s contents for insurance claims.

Plan for Evacuation

If you’re in an evacuation zone or mobile home, plan to leave early:

  • Know Your Destination: Identify safe locations, such as a friend’s home, hotel, or public shelter. Check FloridaDisaster.org for shelter locations.

  • Pet Preparedness: Ensure pets have carriers, food, and identification. Not all shelters accept pets, so locate pet-friendly options in advance.

  • Vehicle Readiness: Keep your car fueled and in good condition, as gas stations may be crowded or closed during evacuations.

Stay Informed and Flexible

Hurricane paths can change quickly, so stay updated:

  • Follow Official Sources: Rely on the NHC, local meteorologists, or state emergency management for accurate information.

  • Avoid Misinformation: Be cautious of unverified social media posts. Cross-check with trusted sources.

  • Adjust Plans: Be ready to adapt based on storm updates or local government orders.

Post-Storm Safety

After a hurricane, hazards like flooding, downed power lines, and debris remain:

  • Avoid Floodwater: It may contain contaminants or hidden dangers.

  • Use Generators Safely: Never run generators indoors to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

  • Document Damage: Take photos for insurance claims before starting cleanup.

Community Preparedness

Support your community by checking on neighbors, especially the elderly or those with disabilities. Share resources and information to ensure everyone is ready.

By preparing early, you can reduce stress and increase safety during hurricane season. Start now, stay informed, and be ready to act when a storm approaches. For more resources, visit floridadisaster.org or ready.gov.

Robert Kunkle