During the Storm

What to Do When a Hurricane is Approaching or Making Landfall

During a Hurricane Watch (Possible Within 48 Hours)

A hurricane watch means hurricane conditions are possible within the next 48 hours. This is your cue to act, do not wait for a warning to begin preparations.

Here’s what to do during a watch:

  • Check your evacuation zone. Use the Evacuation Zone Look-Up Tool at ReadyPBC.com. If you are in an evacuation area, begin planning your departure immediately.
  • Review your emergency plan. Make sure every family member knows your evacuation route, meeting place, and communication plan.
  • Prepare your home. Bring in outdoor furniture, potted plants, trash bins, and other loose items. Board up or shutter windows if advised.
  • Fuel up. Fill your gas tank and check your generator (if applicable).
  • Charge electronics. Fully charge your mobile devices, portable power banks, and flashlights.
  • Check your disaster supply kit. Make sure you have essentials ready for at least two weeks.
  • Reach out. Check on neighbors, especially seniors, individuals with disabilities, or those living alone.
  • Stay informed. Follow official updates from AlertPBC, the National Weather Service, or local news outlets.

During a Hurricane Warning or Landfall (Expected Within 36 Hours)

A hurricane warning means hurricane conditions are expected within 36 hours. By this point, your storm preparations should be complete and you should already be in your safe location.

Here’s how to stay safe during a warning or while sheltering in place:

  • Stay indoors. Do not go outside during the storm, even if it seems calm. The eye of the hurricane may pass over your area, and strong winds can resume suddenly.
  • Stay away from windows and doors. Even if covered, windows and exterior doors can shatter or blow in. Stay in an interior room, closet, or hallway on the lowest level of your home.
  • Close interior doors. This helps maintain structural integrity and may slow wind penetration. Brace all external doors if possible.
  • Keep communication tools close. Have a flashlight, battery-powered radio, and phone with you. Avoid unnecessary phone use to conserve battery life.
  • Monitor updates. Use a NOAA weather radio or trusted local station for real-time updates, shelter information, or emergency alerts.
  • Avoid plumbing. Do not take showers, wash dishes, or use plumbing during the storm. Lightning can travel through pipes.

If flooding occurs inside your home, move to higher ground and shut off electricity at the breaker, only if it is safe to do so.

Remember: Stay inside until local authorities confirm the storm has fully passed and it is safe to go outside. Many injuries occur after the storm, not during it, due to downed power lines, unstable structures, or floodwaters