Preparing For and Staying Safe During Hurricane Season

Staying informed is critical during hurricane season. Here are some reliable resources to monitor for real-time updates, warnings, and preparedness information.  

Remember that your local authorities and news and information will be more specific to your situation than some state and federal agencies. It is essential to remain informed during natural disasters.

Official Weather Services and Emergency Management Agencies

National Hurricane Center (NHC)

The NHC provides real-time tracking, forecasts, and alerts for hurricanes and tropical storms. Their interactive maps, satellite images, and forecast discussions are among the most reliable.

https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

FEMA offers detailed emergency preparation guides, evacuation maps, and response information. Their website and mobile app provide critical resources for before, during, and after a hurricane.

https://www.fema.gov/

NOAA Weather Radio

A nationwide network of radio stations broadcasting continuous weather information directly from the National Weather Service (NWS). It’s a great backup if cellular service is disrupted.

https://www.weather.gov/nwr/

Mobile Apps for Real-Time Alerts

FEMA Mobile App

Provides weather alerts, emergency shelter locations, and disaster resources. Available for free on iOS and Android.

https://www.fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/mobile-products

Red Cross Emergency App

Offers real-time alerts, shelter information, and a Family Safe feature to check on loved ones.

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/mobile-apps.html

NOAA Weather App

Delivers detailed weather forecasts, storm updates, and push notifications for severe weather warnings.

https://www.weather.gov/lox/mobileSplash

 

Local and State Emergency Websites

State Emergency Management Agencies

Check your state’s emergency management website for specific evacuation zones, local alerts, and shelter information. For example, Florida Division of Emergency Management or Texas Emergency Management.

Local County or City Websites and Social Media

Follow local emergency management offices and law enforcement agencies on platforms like X/Twitter, Facebook, or their official sites for localized, up-to-the-minute updates.

Social Media and Crowdsourced Platforms

X/Twitter Weather Feeds

Follow verified accounts like @NWS, @NHC_Atlantic, or local meteorologists for live updates and storm information.

Nextdoor or Community Alert Apps

Platforms like Nextdoor can be useful for hyperlocal information, including road conditions, power outages, and community support during and after the storm.

Tips for Hurricane Safety

Backup Power for Devices

Keep power banks and battery-operated radios as backups in case of power loss.  Store those resources in a spot that you can easily reach during a hurricane.

Fuel Up

Fill your car’s gas tank and charge all mobile devices and backup battery packs. Keep extra cash on hand in case ATMs and card machines become unavailable. Don’t assume that your phone will work indefinitely or that your credit cards will work.

Emergency Contact List

Create a list of family, friends, and emergency numbers to reach out to if communication channels become unstable. Create an emergency plan and make sure the entire family knows where the safe meeting spot is and evacuation routes. Do you remember the numbers you need, or are they stored on your phone? Write them down in case your phone is lost or out of battery.

Emergency Kit

Prepare a kit with essentials, including non-perishable food, bottled water (1 gallon per person per day for 3 days), medications, first aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, and important documents in a waterproof container.  Store your emergency kit in a spot you remember and will be safe during a hurricane.