HURRICANE SEASON BASICS & PREPARATION TIPS FOR NEW FLORIDIANS

Newcomers to Florida are always anxious to learn more about two things: sharks and hurricanes. We're not going to address sharks in this article but be sure to check back with us soon! For now, as hurricane season is just about to roll up on us, lets review some of the basics. We'll be publishing more specific information as the 2025 season shapes up.

When Is Hurricane Season?

• Official season: June 1 to November 30

• Peak activity: Mid-August to Late October

Florida's location between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean makes it especially vulnerable to hurricanes. Storms can develop rapidly, so awareness and preparation are key.

What Is a Hurricane?

• A rotating tropical storm system with strong winds and heavy rain

• Categorized from Category 1 (least severe) to Category 5 (most severe)

• Can cause flooding, power outages, wind damage, and storm surge

Preparation Tips

1. Create a Hurricane Kit: Have enough supplies for 3–7 days, including:

• Water (1 gallon per person per day)

• Non-perishable food

• Medications and first aid kit

• Flashlights, batteries, portable chargers

• Manual can opener

• Important documents in a waterproof bag

• Cash

• Pet supplies (food, leash, carrier, etc.)

• Alternative power source such as a portable power brick

• Full tank of gas

2. Prepare Your Home:

• Trim trees and secure loose outdoor items

• Install or check shutters/plywood for windows

• Clean gutters and drains

• Know how to turn off your utilities

• If you live in a condo, pay attention to or contact your management company for specific guidance

3. Plan for Evacuation:

• Know your evacuation zone (check your county websites below)

• Plan multiple routes inland

• Keep your car at least half full of gas

• Identify nearby shelters (including pet-friendly ones)

4. Stay Informed:

• Monitor weather via NOAA, National Hurricane Center, local news:

  • https://www.wptv.com/

  • https://www.wqcs.org/

• Sign up for county emergency alerts and learn more about your county resources:

  • Indian River County

  • St. Lucie County

  • Martin County

• Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio handy

• Consider buying a power brick to keep phones and laptops charged

Don’t Forget Pets:

• Include pets in your planning

• Not all shelters allow pets, so plan ahead

Final Advice: Don’t wait until a storm is on the way to start preparing. Stock up early, review your plans, and talk with your neighbors about helping each other.

Stay safe and be ready — welcome to Florida!