A hurricane is a large storm system that forms over an ocean and frequently heads toward land. Here’s how to prepare for a hurricane that brings high winds, heavy rain, storm surge (rising water levels), flash flooding, and tornadoes. These systems are hazardous and may cause destruction far from where they originate. Be prepared now so you can stay safe.
What Should You Do Before a Hurricane?
Make plans to stay safe.
Make a plan to evacuate safely and to shelter in the event of high winds and flooding. Collect the supplies and information you will need now to prepare for the storm.
Plan to Evacuate.
If advised to evacuate, do so immediately and go to a safe place.
- Know where you will go and how you will get there.
- Plan well in advance if you will need help leaving or use public transportation.
- Mobile/manufactured/trailer homes and recreational vehicles (RVs) cannot provide safe shelter from tropical-storm or hurricane-force winds. Don’t depend on them to be your safe place.
Plan to Shelter Safely.
- Be ready to live without power, water, gas, phone, and internet for an extended period.
- Practice safety drills by going to a designated safe shelter in the case of high winds. The best protection is a small, interior, windowless room in a sturdy building on the lowest level that is unlikely to flood.
If you are in a flood zone, choose a location on higher ground that you can quickly reach before floodwaters arrive.
Build an Emergency Supply Kit.
Having the right supplies on hand can make a huge difference when a storm hits. Stock up on these essentials before hurricane season peaks:
- At least three days’ worth of water (one gallon per person per day)
- Non-perishable food and a manual can opener
- Flashlights, extra batteries, and a battery-powered or hand-crank radio
- First aid kit and any prescription medications
- Copies of important documents in a waterproof bag (ID, insurance, emergency contacts)
- Cash, since ATMs and card readers may be unavailable after the storm
Keep your kit somewhere easy to grab quickly if you need to leave in a hurry.
How to Prepare for a Hurricane: What to Do During the Storm
Once a hurricane makes landfall, your main job is to stay put and stay safe.
- Stay indoors and away from windows and glass doors. Flying debris is one of the leading causes of injury during a storm.
- If the eye of the storm passes over your area, do not go outside. Calm conditions are temporary and dangerous winds will return.
- Monitor updates from local emergency services through a battery-powered radio or your phone.
- If flooding begins inside your home, move to a higher floor. Never attempt to swim through floodwaters — even a few inches of moving water can knock a person down.
After the Hurricane Passes
The storm being over doesn’t mean it’s safe yet. Wait for official clearance before going outside or returning home.
- Watch out for downed power lines, contaminated water, and weakened structures.
- Document any damage to your property with photos before beginning any cleanup.
- Avoid using candles if there’s any chance of a gas leak — use flashlights instead.
Returning to a normal routine after a hurricane takes time. Even if your home escapes major damage, power outages, road closures, and limited access to groceries or services can disrupt daily life for days or even weeks. Check on your neighbors, especially elderly or disabled individuals who may need extra help, and reach out to local relief organizations if you need assistance with food, shelter, or repairs.
If your home is not safe to return to, Capri Temporary Housing offers fully furnished short-term housing so you have a stable, comfortable place to stay while things get back to normal. Learn more about our housing options.
For official storm updates and evacuation orders, follow the National Hurricane Center.