A hurricane preparedness checklist helps you and your family get ready before a storm arrives. Preparation done before hurricane season — not the night before landfall — is what separates a manageable emergency from a disaster. Check off each item and store your supplies in an accessible location.
Always follow orders from local emergency management. When evacuation is ordered, go immediately.
Hurricane Preparedness Guide
Hurricane preparedness must happen before the season starts, not when a storm is bearing down. Stores sell out of water, batteries, and generators within hours of a storm announcement. The best time to complete this checklist is May (before Atlantic hurricane season peaks in August-October).
Water and Food Storage
Water is the most critical supply. Store one gallon per person per day, for at least 14 days. Rotate stored water every 6 months. For food, choose items that don't require cooking or refrigeration in case of power outage — canned goods, dried fruit, peanut butter, crackers, and energy bars.
Evacuation Planning
Know your flood zone and whether your area is subject to mandatory evacuation. Plan two evacuation routes in case roads are blocked. Identify a destination 100+ miles inland. Practice the drive so you're not navigating for the first time in a storm.
Home Protection
Storm shutters or plywood protect windows. The garage door is the largest and often weakest opening — reinforce it or replace with a hurricane-rated door. Trim trees within striking distance of the house. Clear gutters so water flows away from the foundation.
FAQ
Is this hurricane checklist free?
Yes, completely free with no signup required. Your checklist progress saves in your browser's local storage.
How much water should I store for a hurricane?
FEMA recommends one gallon of water per person per day for at least 3 days, preferably 14 days. A family of four needs 4 gallons per day — 56 gallons for two weeks. Store in sealed food-grade containers away from direct sunlight.
When should I evacuate for a hurricane?
Evacuate when ordered by local officials. Don't wait — traffic congestion means you should leave at the first voluntary evacuation notice if you're in a flood zone, mobile home, or storm surge area. Have your evacuation route planned and your go-bag ready to leave in 30 minutes.
How do I protect my home before a hurricane?
Board up windows or install hurricane shutters, bring in outdoor furniture and decorations, trim trees near the house, clear gutters and drains, reinforce garage doors (weak point in homes), move valuables off the floor in case of flooding, and document your possessions with photos for insurance.
What is a hurricane go-bag?
A go-bag is a pre-packed bag with essentials for 72 hours if you evacuate quickly. Include: ID and documents, medications, phone charger, cash, change of clothes, snacks, water, and a flashlight. Keep it in an easy-to-grab location.
What category hurricane should I evacuate for?
Category 3 and above typically require mandatory evacuations in vulnerable areas. However, any category can cause life-threatening storm surge and flooding. Follow local emergency management orders — they know your specific flood zone and surge risk better than national forecasts.