Hurricane
Hurricane Season 2026: Essential Preparation Guide
Hurricane season runs June through November. Here's your complete guide to preparing before the storms arrive.
By ReadyAF Team · January 10, 2026 · Updated June 20, 2026 · 10 min read
Key takeaways
- Water: store at least one gallon per person per day. Ready.gov sets a 3-day minimum and up to two weeks for sheltering at home — storms can cut water service for days.
- Watch vs. warning: a hurricane watch means conditions are possible within 48 hours; a warning means they're expected within 36 hours (National Weather Service).
- Know your evacuation zone before a watch is issued — look it up on your county emergency-management site or the National Hurricane Center.
- Grab-and-go bag: IDs, insurance documents, cash in small bills, medications, and a NOAA Weather Radio.
- Evacuate as soon as officials order it for your zone — don't wait for the storm to be visible (Ready.gov).
When is hurricane season?
Atlantic hurricane season officially runs June 1 through November 30, with peak activity typically between mid-August and late October. Use the quieter early weeks to prepare — supplies sell out fast once a storm is named.
How do you prepare before hurricane season?
Get these done before any storm is on the map.
Know your zone
- Find out if you're in an evacuation zone — check your county emergency-management site or the National Hurricane Center.
- Identify evacuation routes and destinations.
- Make arrangements for pets (many shelters don't accept animals).
Prepare your home
- Install hurricane shutters or have plywood ready.
- Clear gutters and drains.
- Trim trees and secure loose outdoor items.
- Document your belongings for insurance purposes.
What should be in a hurricane emergency kit?
A hurricane kit centers on water, food, power, and documents — enough to be self-sufficient for at least a week.
Water & food
- One gallon of water per person per day. Ready.gov sets a 3-day minimum and recommends up to two weeks for sheltering at home; for hurricanes, aim high — water service can be out for a week or more.
- A 7-day supply of non-perishable food.
- A manual can opener.
Power & communication
- Flashlights and lanterns.
- A battery-powered or hand-crank radio, including a NOAA Weather Radio for official alerts (Ready.gov).
- Extra batteries and portable phone chargers.
Important documents
- Insurance policies, IDs, and bank records.
- Keep copies in a waterproof container.
Cash
- ATMs and card readers won't work without power — keep small bills on hand.
What should you do during a hurricane watch?
A watch means hurricane conditions are possible within 48 hours (National Weather Service). Start acting now:
- Review your emergency plan.
- Fuel your vehicles and charge all devices.
- Fill the bathtub with water for flushing toilets.
What should you do during a hurricane warning?
A warning means hurricane conditions are expected within 36 hours (National Weather Service). Finish up and decide whether to go:
- Complete final preparations and bring in outdoor furniture.
- Close all windows and doors.
- If evacuating, leave early to avoid traffic.
What should you do after a hurricane?
- Wait for the official all-clear before going outside.
- Avoid flooded roads and downed power lines.
- Document any damage for insurance claims.
- Check on neighbors, especially the elderly.
Coastal cities like Miami and Houston face the highest hurricane and storm-surge risk. Have pets? Don't miss our pet emergency preparedness guide.
Get your personalized hurricane preparedness kit based on your coastal proximity and household needs.