How to Prepare for a Hurricane

Hurricanes are massive storm systems that form over ocean water and often move toward land. Threats from hurricanes include high winds, heavy rainfall, storm surge, coastal and inland flooding, rip currents, and tornadoes. The heavy winds of hurricanes can cause damage or destroy homes, buildings, and roads, as well as cause power, water, and gas outages. These effects can injure or kill people, disrupt transportation, and pollute drinking water. Hurricanes cause deaths and injuries primarily from drowning, wind, and wind-borne debris. The impact from hurricanes can extend from the coast to several hundred miles inland. To find your risk, visit FEMA’s “Know Your Risk Map.”

​Be better prepared for this hurricane season, and learn more at ready.gov/prepare.

Now/Prepare

• Sign up for local alerts and warnings. Monitor local news and weather reports.
• Prepare to evacuate by testing your emergency communication plan(s), learning evacuation routes, having a place to stay, and packing a “go bag.”
• Stock emergency supplies.
• Protect your property by installing sewer backflow valves, anchoring fuel tanks, reviewing insurance policies, and cataloging belongings.
• Collect and safeguard critical financial, medical, educational, and legal documents and records. 

During/Survive

• Follow guidance from local authorities.
• If advised to evacuate, grab your “go bag” and leave immediately.
• For protection from high winds, stay away from windows and seek shelter on the lowest level in an interior room.
• Move to higher ground if there is flooding or a flood warning. Turn Around Don’t Drown.® Never walk or drive on flooded roads or through water.
• Call 9-1-1 if you are in life-threatening danger.

After/Be Safe

• Return to the area only after authorities say it is safe to do so. Do not enter damaged buildings until they are inspected by qualified professionals.
• Never walk or drive on flooded roads or through floodwaters.
• Look out for downed or unstable trees, poles, and power lines.
• Do not remove heavy debris by yourself. Wear gloves and sturdy, thick-soled shoes to protect your hands and feet.
• Do not drink tap water unless authorities say it is safe.

For more resources about hurricane risk, visit ready.gov/prepare.