Hurricane season in the Atlantic runs June 1–November 30, with the climatological peak around early September and the most activity typically from mid-August through mid-October. Staying ahead in Tampa means confirming your evacuation zone, topping off supplies, and enrolling for official alerts before watches and warnings are issued.
1) Find your Tampa/Hillsborough evacuation zone (and know your flood risk)
Your evacuation zone is based on storm-surge risk and determines when officials may ask you to leave. It’s different from FEMA flood zones, which describe long-term flood risk and affect insurance and building requirements. Check both so you understand storm-surge exposure and insurance considerations for your property.
2) Enroll in official alerts for timely updates
Sign up for Alert Tampa to receive emergency notifications by text, email, or phone. Add a NOAA Weather Radio to your kit so you still receive official updates if cell service is interrupted. Keep your phone’s emergency alerts enabled and follow local emergency management for status updates.
3) Top off your hurricane kit
Do a mid-season inventory now so you’re not competing with crowds later. Recommended basics include:
- Water and non-perishable food (3-day supply per person; include pets)
- Flashlights, batteries, and power banks
- First-aid kit and prescription medications
- Copies of IDs/insurance in a waterproof pouch
- Cash in small bills
Customize for infants, seniors, pets, and medical needs.
4) Prepare your property
- Clear gutters and downspouts; secure or store outdoor items that can become projectiles.
- Trim limbs threatening roofs or power lines (hire professionals where needed).
- Photograph your home and valuables for potential claims.
- In low-lying or coastal parts of Tampa, monitor sandbag announcements; sites typically open as conditions warrant. Have tarps, plastic sheeting, and duct tape ready for temporary protection.
5) Review insurance (don’t wait until a storm forms)
Flood insurance under the National Flood Insurance Program generally has a 30-day waiting period before coverage takes effect, with limited exceptions. If you’re considering coverage, act early—don’t assume a last-minute policy will be active before landfall. Confirm wind/hurricane deductibles, temporary living expense coverage, and claim procedures with your insurer.
6) Refresh your family evacuation plan
- Identify two routes out of your zone and a rendezvous point outside the area.
- Plan for pets (carriers, vaccination records, food/water).
- Know locations of general, pet-friendly, and special-needs shelters.
- Practice the drive during clear weather and keep your vehicle’s fuel tank at least half full during peak weeks.
Quick FAQs (Tampa-focused)
When is hurricane season most active?
Activity typically peaks from mid-August through mid-October, with an annual high point around early September.
How do I know if I’m supposed to evacuate?
Officials announce evacuations by zone. Know your zone now and monitor official alerts.
What’s the difference between evacuation and flood zones?
Evacuation zones address storm surge and life safety; flood zones describe long-term flood risk and relate to insurance and building standards. They are not the same.
What if cell service goes down?
Use NOAA Weather Radio and a battery-powered or hand-crank radio for continuous official updates.