Hurricane Preparation

Landfall, direct hit, strike and indirect hit describe different relationships between a hurricane and a location — and the terms can overlap. Hurricane Milton shows why the path of the center is only one part of a storm’s story.

He encourages Floridians to use this month to plan ahead for peak hurricane season.

Residents can pre-register for Hillsborough County’s special needs shelters ahead of a hurricane. These shelters provide medical staff, generator power and oxygen for people who need extra support during evacuations.

Hillsborough County officials recommend stocking up on healthy foods, keeping emergency kits ready and having a plan before a hurricane is at the door.

After the 2024 hurricanes, houses are moving up.

From what El Niño forecasting means to documents to have on hand during an emergency, here are some things to know at the start of the 2026 hurricane season.

Clear skies can be misleading. In Florida, some of the most dangerous hurricane hazards begin after the storm—during cleanup, return, and recovery.

In Florida, evacuation and final preparations need to happen before conditions deteriorate—because the safe window often closes faster than expected.

Early work includes clearing vegetation and inspecting power lines.

The National Hurricane Center is rolling out upgraded products for the 2026 hurricane season, including a redesigned cone graphic, new storm surge tools and improved access for mobile users.

Suwannee County was the hardest hit during Helene, said Christa Court, director of UF/IFAS' Economic Impact Analysis Program.

The program will not give grants to anyone who exceeds the moderate income, and low-income applicants now need to show proof of homeowners insurance.