Severe storms can develop quickly, bringing destructive winds, heavy rainfall, and widespread power outages. Whether a tropical system is days away or making landfall, knowing how to prepare and respond protects both your household and your property.
Here is a practical, step-by-step guide on what to do before, during, and after a hurricane hits your area.
BEFORE: Preparation and Safety Measures: Action steps to complete as a storm approaches.
Preparation starts days before a storm makes landfall. Taking early action gives you the time needed to secure your property and gather essential supplies safely.
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- Build an Emergency Supply Kit: Gather at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food and water (one gallon per person per day), flashlights, extra batteries, a first-aid kit, prescription medications, and battery-powered chargers for mobile devices.
- Secure Exterior Property: Bring lawn furniture, potted plants, trash cans, and outdoor decor indoors. High winds can turn unanchored outdoor items into dangerous projectiles.
- Clear Drainage Pathways: Clean out gutters and clear nearby storm drains to minimize water pooling around your building foundation.
- Prepare Important Documents: Store birth certificates, passports, policy documents, and property inventory photos in a waterproof container or secure cloud storage.
- Charge Devices & Fill Gas Tanks: Keep vehicles fueled and charge all essential mobile electronics before power outages occur.
- Know Your Evacuation Zone: Review local emergency management guidance to identify your local evacuation route and nearest public shelter locations.
DURING: Remaining Safe During the Storm: Key actions while severe weather is occurring.
When high winds and severe weather arrive, focus entirely on personal safety until conditions clear.
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- Stay Indoors and Away from Windows: Move to an interior room on the lowest floor of the building—such as a hallway, closet, or bathroom without windows.
- Monitor Local Emergency Alerts: Keep a battery-operated radio or mobile phone active to receive real-time updates, shelter-in-place orders, or emergency weather warnings.
- Be Aware of the Eye of the Storm: If the calm center (the eye) of the hurricane passes directly overhead, weather conditions will temporarily quiet down. Stay indoors—violent winds will resume quickly from the opposite direction as the storm moves.
- Never Use Generators Indoors: Place portable generators outdoors at least 20 feet away from windows, doors, and attached garages to avoid dangerous carbon monoxide accumulation.
AFTER: Safe Recovery and Initial Property Assessment: Steps to take once official all-clears are issued.
After the storm moves out, exercise extreme caution during recovery efforts. Hidden hazards often remain present long after winds subside.
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- Wait for Official Clearance: Do not leave your shelter or return home until local authorities announce that conditions are safe.
- Watch for Outdoor Hazards: Avoid standing water, downed power lines, and damaged trees or limbs. Water may mask submerged debris or live electrical currents.
- Document Structural Damage: Before moving debris or making temporary repairs, take clear photos and videos of all exterior and interior damage to support your claims process.
- Prevent Secondary Damage: Cover broken windows or damaged roof sections with tarps to protect interiors from additional rainfall. Save receipts for any emergency materials purchased.
- Contact Your Insurance Agency: Notify your insurance representative as soon as possible to review your policy coverage and begin the recovery process.
Keeping Your Property Prepared Year-Round
Comprehensive storm preparation involves combining physical safety measures with proper financial readiness. Taking time to organize emergency supplies, document your home’s contents, and understand your property protection plan provides strong footing when severe weather threatens.
Reviewing your policy annually helps confirm that your dwelling coverage, personal property limits, and deductible structures match your current property value. Contact our local agency team today to review your existing coverage, clarify policy terms, or discuss storm protection options.
Hurricane Preparedness FAQs
When should I evacuate for a hurricane?
Evacuate immediately if local emergency officials issue a mandatory evacuation order for your area or if you live in a mobile home, high-rise building, or low-lying flood zone.
What is the difference between a Hurricane Watch and a Hurricane Warning?
A Hurricane Watch means hurricane conditions (winds of 74 mph or higher) are possible within a specified area, typically issued 48 hours in advance. A Hurricane Warning means hurricane conditions are expected within the area, usually issued 36 hours in advance to allow time for final preparations.
How can I protect my appliances during power outages?
Turn off or unplug major appliances, electronics, and air conditioning units during power outages to prevent power surge damage when electricity is restored. Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to preserve food temperature as long as possible.