How to Prepare for a Hurricane and Potential Evacuations

Less than two weeks after Hurricane Helene made landfall, carving a path of destruction up the southeastern United States, another major storm — Hurricane Milton — is expected to bring dangerous wind and rain when it slams into Florida’s Gulf Coast on Wednesday.

These are just the latest in the Atlantic hurricane season, which has seen nine hurricanes so far. More are possible before the season ends in November.

While Hurricane Milton is expected to cause considerable devastation to many areas in Florida still recovering from Hurricane Helene, experts caution that a storm does not need to be a major hurricane to cause damage. They also warn that extreme flooding and winds can occur hundreds of miles inland, not just on the coastline.

When a hurricane is approaching and the authorities issue an evacuation order, you may not have much time to protect your home and your family from the storm — and from flooding — before you must head for safer ground.

Here’s what you can do to get ready ahead of time, ride out a storm safely and bounce back after the skies clear.

Before the Storm

Make a family plan.

Prepare an emergency kit, including cash, prescription medicines and three days’ worth of food and water (for people and pets). If your house floods and you can’t return immediately, these will be is essential. Be sure to consider provisions for those with special needs, like older people. If you need help coming up with a list, this one from Wirecutter, a New York Times company, has suggestions for any household.