May 5, 2025

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Here is a primer on how to get ready during Hurricane Preparedness Week

The 2025 hurricane season begins June 1 and this year, Hurricane Preparedness Week is May 4-10. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM), and Hillsborough County encourage Florida residents to make a plan, know your evacuation zone and flood zone, and help your neighbors get ready.

Here's the rundown:

1. Know your risk, know your zone, and know your home

Hurricanes and risk go hand in hand. When a dangerous storm comes close to Hillsborough many things can happen. Floods, storm surge, tornadoes, damaging wind, and rip currents are all possible and after last year, we know they can be probable.

• Know your evacuation zone and flood zone
• Understand your home's ability to handle heavy rain and strong wind
• Keep your gas tank at least halfway full and plan your evacuation route
• Listen to evacuation orders from officials and leave when your zone is ordered to do so
• Evacuate tens of miles, not hundreds of miles
• If you don't live in an evacuation zone, you may be able to shelter in place

2. Prepare before hurricane season

• Make a plan Visit Hillsborough County's annual disaster guide for details
• Build a Disaster Supply Kit - Pack a seven-day supply of food and water and a two-week supply of medication
• Stay informed by signing up for HCFL Alert, Hillsborough's emergency notification system

3. Understand forecast information

• Have multiple ways to receive weather alerts, e.g. tv, phone, text, and email

• Hazards may still be dangerous outside of the predicted area. Last year, Hurricane Helene was over 150 miles offshore and storm surge impacts in Hillsborough were immense.
• Focus on potential impacts rather than storm size and location
• Know the difference between a watch and a warning

4. Stay protected during a storm

• If you are not in an evacuation zone and taking shelter at home, stay inside in a safe, interior room without windows
• Do not leave your safe location until emergency officials say it's safe to do so

5. After the storm

When outside, avoid downed power lines, flooded roads, and use caution at intersections

• Practice generator safety
• Use caution and consult a professional when cleaning up downed trees

This hurricane season, stay safe with Hillsborough County. Connect with the County on social media, sign up for HCFL Alert - Hillsborough County's emergency alert system, and regularly visit Hillsborough's Stay Safe page for everything you need to prepare for disasters, monitor real-time updates during emergencies, and find recovery resources after the threat passes.