Atlantic OceanThe National Hurricane Center near Miami constantly watches the North Atlantic, Caribbean, and the Gulf of Mexico ocean waters for tropical disturbances. When counter-clockwise circular movement reaches 39 miles per hour they are tropical storms and when it reaches 74 miles per hour they are hurricane.

A hurricane's most deadly force is usually the storm surge. Ocean tides rise dramatically, creating large waves which hit the shore with great force and far beyond the reach of normal waves. Hurricane season is June 1 through November 30.

Before the Season Begins

Stock your home with food and supplies in preparation for hurricane season.

During / After the Hurricane

If you were unable to evacuate, stay inside. Do not be fooled by the eye of the hurricane and its temporary period of peaceful weather conditions.

Plan for Evacuation

View tips for planning a hurricane evacuation.

Before the Season Begins

Stock Your Home

Food

  • Canned goods and manual can opener Cereals
  • Dried fruits
  • Dry milk, boxed juices, etc.
  • Food and medications for pets
  • Granola bars
  • Peanut Butter

Water

Needs vary, depending on age and physical condition, one gallon per person per day is a good rule of thumb.

  • Store in airtight containers. Replace water every two months to be sure it's pure.
  • Water for sanitary needs
  • Water for washing

Supplies

  • Battery-operated radio with extra batteries
  • Blankets or sleeping bags
  • Cash (Remember stores may be unable to use bank cards and ATM machines may be down due to power outages)
  • Flashlight
  • Medications
  • Paper plates and utensils
  • Toiletries

We do not recommend candles.

During / After the Hurricane

During The Hurricane

If you were unable to evacuate, stay inside. Do not be fooled by the eye of the hurricane and its temporary period of peaceful weather conditions. The length of time within the eye varies from several minutes to a couple of hours, depending on the size of the storm. The larger and more intense the hurricane the larger the eye. Stay away form windows and glass doors. Continue to listen to your radio or television for hurricane updates and emergency information.

After The Hurricane

  • Wait for local authorities to announce when it is safe to return to your home.
  • Look for visible structural damage before you go inside. Watch for loose dangling electrical power lines and broken sewer, water, or gas lines. Notify local officials immediately if you see any.
  • Make sure all electrical outlets and appliances are dry and free of water before using them
  • Check your air conditioner, both inside unit and outside, to make sure it is free from water and/or debris that may have blown in it.
  • Do not drink water from the faucet until officially notified that it is safe from contamination.
  • Without electricity, food may have spoiled in just a few hours. Don't eat it.
  • Snakes, animals, and insects instinctively travel inland to higher ground to escape. Expect them and be prepared to protect yourself.

Plan for Evacuation

When you evacuate, you may wish to take some of the supplies listed on the Before the Season Begins page, but don't take more than you can carry. If you are going to a public shelter, the most important items are your medications, a blanket, portable radio, clothes, small packaged quick-energy foods like raisins and granola bars.

Plan Ahead

  • Keep your gas tank full during hurricane season
  • Make advance plans to stay with friends or relatives living out of the hurricane's path.
  • Learn the recommended evacuation routes in your area.

Stay Aware of Weather Conditions

  • Listen to a daily weather forecast during hurricane season.
  • Hurricane Watch does not mean unstable conditions are imminent. However, you should take preparatory action.
  • Stay tuned to local stations.

Review Plans

Check your emergency supplies, placing them in or near your car or front door. Store away all objects on your lawn or patio which could be carried by the wind. Gather up important papers:

  • Birth and marriage certificates
  • Wills and insurance policies
  • Deeds
  • Stock Certificates

When a Storm Threatens

  • Evacuate if you are in an evacuation zone or modular home.
  • Stay tuned to local stations.
  • Contact your partner and review your plans.
  • Be sure your car is fueled and ready to go.
  • Leave early! Do not wait and get stranded in a traffic jam.

Do not stay in a modular home during a hurricane. Even if it is anchored and shuttered there is no guarantee it will withstand the strong winds or a hurricane.