Hurricane season in Florida is something we know to expect, but that doesn’t make preparing for a storm any less important. In Pinellas County, recent storms have shown just how quickly conditions can change.

In 2024, Pinellas County experienced three major storms, Hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton. Helene brought devastating storm-surge flooding, even without making landfall in Pinellas County, while Milton demonstrated how quickly one storm can compound the damage and disruption left by another. Together, the three storms damaged 46,728 homes, resulted in 14 fatalities and led to more than 7.2 million cubic yards of debris being cleared across the county. More than 3,900 households representing more than 7,500 people needed temporary housing following the storms.

A little planning now can make a big difference when a storm is approaching. And if Pinellas County issues an evacuation order, don’t wait. Follow local guidance and give yourself plenty of time to get to a safe place, such as a shelter or the home of a friend or family member outside the area.

Here’s how Pinellas County residents can prepare.

Know Your Evacuation Zone

When a hurricane is heading your way, you don’t want to be figuring out where you should go at the last minute. Knowing your evacuation zone ahead of time can help you make a plan and act quickly if an evacuation is ordered.

Pinellas County evacuation zones are based on the risk of life-threatening storm surge. They are different from FEMA flood zones and knowing your flood zone alone does not tell you whether you will be ordered to evacuate. 

If you live in a mobile or manufactured home or an RV, you should plan to evacuate regardless of your evacuation zone. These structures may not be able to withstand hurricane-force winds.

Not sure what zone you’re in? Use Pinellas County’s Know Your Zone tool to find your zone and learn about nearby shelters and other options.

A little planning now can make a big difference when a storm is approaching. And if Pinellas County issues an evacuation order, don’t wait. Follow local guidance and give yourself plenty of time to get to a safe place.

Hurricane season is now until November 30th. Start researching the following: 

• Look up your evacuation zone.
• Identify where you will go if you need to evacuate.
• Choose at least one destination outside the evacuation area.
• Plan multiple evacuation routes.
• Make sure everyone in your household knows the plan.
• Identify a friend or family member who can be your emergency contact.
• Sign up for local emergency alerts.
• Download the Ready Pinellas app.
• Review the latest Pinellas County Hurricane Guide.

Pinellas County Emergency Management recommends residents Know Your Risk, Make a Plan, Stay Informed and Get Involved. 

Prepare Your Home

Don’t wait until a storm is approaching to start preparing. Walk around your home now and look for anything that could become a problem during high winds or heavy rain.

Before a storm:

• Trim trees and remove weak branches.
• Secure or bring in outdoor furniture, grills and decorations.
• Clean gutters and drains.
• Check windows, doors and your roof for potential issues.
• Know how to shut off your utilities if needed.
• Review your homeowners or renters insurance and make sure important documents are stored safely.

Florida Division of Emergency Management recommends having at least seven days of disaster supplies on hand. Stock up on water, nonperishable food, medications, first-aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, chargers, hygiene items, cash and any supplies your family or pets may need.

Keep in mind that flood damage is generally not covered by standard homeowners’ insurance, so check your coverage before a storm.

Make a Plan for Your Family and Pets

Your hurricane plan should include everyone in your household, including children, older adults, people with medical needs and your pets.

Talk through where you’ll go if you need to evacuate, how you’ll stay in touch and what you’ll do if you lose power or cell service. Write down important phone numbers and choose an out-of-area contact everyone can reach.

Pinellas County also offers a Special Needs Evacuation Program for qualifying residents who need assistance during an evacuation. Register before a storm is approaching.

And don’t forget to prepare for your pets. Make sure they have:

• Identification and current microchip information
• A carrier or secure leash
• Food and water for at least a week
• Medications and vaccination records
• Familiar items like a blanket or toy
• A pet-friendly place to stay if you need to evacuate

Never leave a pet behind. Storms, flooding and road closures can make it difficult or impossible to return home safely.

Prepare for the Loss of Power

A hurricane can affect more than your electricity. Be prepared for disruptions to air conditioning, internet, cell service, refrigeration, stores, gas stations and medical services.

Charge your phones, portable batteries and medical devices before the storm arrives. Keep flashlights where everyone can find them.

If you use a generator, never operate it inside your home, garage or another enclosed space. Carbon monoxide can build up quickly and become deadly.

Prepare Your Mind

Hurricane preparation isn’t just about protecting your home; it’s also about taking care of your mental health. Waiting for a storm, making evacuation decisions and dealing with the aftermath can be stressful, and for those who have experienced a hurricane before, another storm may bring back difficult memories.

You may notice anxiety or constant worry, trouble sleeping or concentrating, irritability, feeling overwhelmed, or fear as another storm approaches. You may also experience stress related to finances, housing or recovery, or turn to substances as a way to cope.

These feelings are valid and can happen even if your home wasn’t badly damaged. Watching your community experience a disaster or worrying about loved ones can take an emotional toll, too.

Give yourself a break. Staying informed is important, but constantly checking weather updates or social media can add to your stress. Choose a few trusted sources, check them regularly and give yourself permission to step away.

When you can, focus on what you can control: preparing your supplies, knowing your evacuation plan, staying connected with loved ones and identifying people you can turn to for support. Preparing your mind is just as important as preparing your home.

You Don’t Have to Navigate it Alone

You can’t control where a hurricane goes, how strong it becomes or how long recovery will take. But you can control how prepared you are, including how you care for your mental health.

You don’t have to wait until you’re in crisis to ask for support. If a storm, its aftermath or the stress surrounding it is affecting your mental health or substance use, Care About Me is here to help.

Care About Me is a confidential access service for Pinellas County residents looking for mental health, substance use and addiction services. The team can help you understand your options, connect with the right provider and coordinate an appointment.

Call or text “CARE” to 727-333-CARE to get started.

Care About Me is not a crisis line. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, call 911. If you’re experiencing suicidal thoughts or need immediate emotional support, call or text 988.