Florida’s weather is one of its biggest draws — and one of its biggest risks. Strong storms and coastal flooding are part of life for residents and frequent visitors, so practical preparedness pays off. Whether you’re a long-time Floridian or new to the state, a focused plan will reduce stress, protect your property, and keep loved ones safe during severe weather.

Know your risk and plan accordingly
– Check your property’s flood risk and elevation. Coastal and low-lying inland areas face higher flood exposure.

Consult your county emergency management office and flood zone maps to learn if you’re in an evacuation zone.
– Review insurance coverages. Standard homeowners policies don’t typically cover flooding; review options through the National Flood Insurance Program and private insurers.

Policies can require lead time before they take effect, so act well before a storm threatens.
– Identify evacuation routes and nearest shelters. Local authorities publish evacuation maps and shelter locations; sign up for emergency alerts to receive real-time instructions.

Build an actionable emergency kit
Assemble a go-bag and a larger at-home kit stocked with essentials:
– Water (one gallon per person per day) and nonperishable food
– Flashlight, spare batteries, and a battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio
– First-aid kit, prescription medications, and hygiene supplies
– Copies of important documents sealed in a waterproof container
– Portable chargers, spare phone cords, cash in small bills
– Pet supplies, baby items, and any special medical equipment

Secure your home and property
– Remove or secure loose outdoor items — patio furniture, trash cans, and potted plants can become hazards in high winds.
– Trim trees and remove dead branches near structures to reduce falling debris.
– Consider structural upgrades where feasible: install storm shutters or impact-resistant windows, reinforce garage doors, and secure roof attachments.
– Elevate utilities and appliances in flood-prone areas and install backflow valves to reduce water damage.

Power, fuel, and generator safety
– Prepare for extended power outages. Keep full propane tanks or fuel, mindful of local storage regulations.
– If using a portable generator, operate it outdoors and away from windows to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. Never connect a generator directly to household wiring without a properly installed transfer switch.

Communication and family preparedness
– Create a family emergency plan with meeting points, contact numbers, and a designated out-of-area contact.
– Keep a written list of key contacts and medical information in case phone networks are down.
– Practice your evacuation plan so everyone knows where to go and what to take.

Stay informed and follow official guidance
– Sign up for county emergency alerts and follow local emergency management on social media for timely updates.
– Monitor NOAA Weather Radio or trusted news sources during storms.
– Respect evacuation orders and shelter guidelines — they are issued to protect lives.

Resources and recovery
After a storm, document damage with photos for insurance claims and contact your insurer promptly. Beware of scams during recovery; verify credentials before hiring contractors and use community resources like disaster recovery centers for verified assistance.

Preparedness reduces panic and speeds recovery. Review your supplies, update your plan, and check local alerts so you’re ready before a storm threatens. Taking these steps now makes a difference when every minute counts.