How to Prepare for a Hurricane

Hurricane season runs June through November, with National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicting up to 14 named storms in 2026. Here’s how to build your go-bag, evacuation plan and emergency supply kit before the next storm forms, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

To speak to a AAA insurance agent about your storm coverage, schedule an appointment today. 

Sign Up for Storm Alerts 

The FEMA mobile app will send you National Weather Service notifications on up to five locations and locate emergency shelters. You should keep an eye on local news and weather reports as well.

Pack a Bag 

One of the most helpful hurricane safety tips is to pack a go-bag ahead of time. If you have to leave your home on short notice, you’ll want some essentials for you and everyone in your family. FEMA recommends packing things like medications, food and water, clothing and a first-aid kit. Your bag should be easy to carry and kept where you can grab it quickly.

Plan for Evacuation 

State or local officials may issue evacuation notices in advance of dangerous storms. Check with your local department of transportation or emergency management office to familiarize yourself with your area’s evacuation routes and create an emergency evacuation plan.

Keep your car’s gas tank at least half-full and carry a kit of basic emergency supplies including snacks, bottled water, a first-aid kit, flashlights, flares, jumper cables, tools, a blanket and a change of clothes.

Establish a Communication Plan 

Figure out how your family will stay in touch if you’re separated or lose power. You can choose an out-of-state contact for everyone to use and designate a meetup spot.

Build Your Hurricane Emergency Kit

Build your kit before storm season peaks, and check it twice a year to swap out expired food, water and batteries. Here’s what to pack, organized by category.

Category	What to Pack
Water and Food	One gallon of water per person per day (three-day minimum), a three-day supply of nonperishable food and a can opener if your food is canned.
Safety and Tools	Battery or hand-crank radio, flashlight with extra batteries, whistle, wrench or pliers, dust mask, plastic sheeting and duct tape, and a fire extinguisher.
Health and Documents	Prescriptions and reading glasses, a first-aid kit, infant formula and diapers if needed and copies of insurance policies and bank records in a waterproof container.
Comfort and Sanitation	Moist towelettes, garbage bags and ties, feminine and personal hygiene supplies, paper cups and utensils, sleeping bags or blankets, a full change of clothing and cash on hand.
Pets & local info	Pet food and extra water for pets, local maps, matches stored in a waterproof container, and traveler’s checks as a cash backup.

Staying Put

If you’re not ordered to evacuate, stay indoors, away from windows and glass doors. Never use a generator or gasoline-powered equipment indoors or in partially enclosed areas. Such equipment should be outside, 20 feet away from doors, windows and vents.

Prepare Your Home 

Powerful winds and floods are two of the greatest dangers presented by hurricanes. Secure your home for a storm by reinforcing doors, windows, walls and the roof. You should also bring loose, light objects like patio furniture and garbage cans inside and anchor objects you cannot bring inside, like grills. Trim or remove trees that are close enough to fall on buildings.

To prepare your home for heavy rains or flooding, keep gutters and drains free of debris. If possible, install a water alarm and sump pump with battery and battery backup. Stockpile plywood, plastic sheeting, sandbags and other emergency materials, too.

Remember that flood damage is not covered by standard homeowners insurance. You should talk to your insurance agent about purchasing coverage, which might have a 30-day waiting period before it takes effect.

Learn the ins and outs of hurricane deductibles.

Hurricane Preparedness FAQ

How far in advance should you prepare for a hurricane?

Start before hurricane season ramps up in mid-August. Building a go-bag, reviewing your insurance and mapping evacuation routes takes time, and supplies can sell out fast once a storm enters the forecast.

Does homeowners insurance cover hurricane damage?

Standard homeowners insurance typically covers wind damage, but it excludes flooding. Since flood coverage can take 30 days to activate after you purchase it, review your policy with an agent well before a storm forms.

What should you do with your car before a hurricane hits?

Keep your gas tank at least half full, since power outages can shut down gas stations and pack a basic emergency kit in your trunk with snacks, water, a flashlight and jumper cables. Learn more.

Is it safe to use a generator during a hurricane?

Only outdoors. Never run a generator or any gasoline-powered equipment indoors or in a partially enclosed space — keep it at least 20 feet from doors, windows and vents to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

How do you know if you’re in a hurricane evacuation zone?

Check with your local department of transportation or emergency management office. They can confirm your zone and share the specific evacuation routes mapped out for your area.

What’s the difference between a hurricane watch and a hurricane warning?

A watch means hurricane conditions are possible in your area, typically within 48 hours. A warning means those conditions are expected, usually within 36 hours — treat a warning as your signal to finalize evacuation plans. Learn more.

How can you stay updated on a storm’s path if you lose power?

A battery or hand-crank radio keeps you connected to National Weather Service updates without relying on electricity or cell service, which are often the first things to go down.

For more information on hurricane readiness and other safety tips, visit www.ready.gov or download our free hurricane preparedness guide.

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Are you ready for a hurricane? Tell us in the comments.

Last updated on August 24, 2026 by AAA Staff