Get Ready for Hurricanes

Hurricanes can cause catastrophic damage, so every resident needs to understand their risks and plan what to do in the event of an evacuation.

Before a Hurricane
  • Prepare a Ready kit for your home and vehicle in case you have to evacuate.
  • Make a family communications plan.
  • Familiarize yourself with terms associated with a hurricane.
    • A tropical storm/hurricane watch means sustained tropical storm (39 mph to 73 mph) / hurricane (74 mph and higher) force winds are possible within 48 hours. Be prepared to evacuate.
    A tropical storm/hurricane warning means sustained tropical storm (39 mph to 73 mph) / hurricane (74 mph and higher) force winds are expected within 36 hours. If local authorities advise you to evacuate, leave immediately.
  • Make an evacuation plan for your family.
  • Secure your property.
  • Cover your home’s windows with hurricane shutters to protect them from winds. Another option is to board up windows with 5/8” exterior grade or marine pre-cut plywood.
  • Bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans and anything else that is not tied down.
  • Keep all trees and shrubs well-trimmed to make them more wind-resistant.
  • Fill the gas tank in your car in case you have to evacuate.
  • Plan ahead for your pets. Shelters cannot accept pets due to health reasons, so it’s important to find a pet-friendly hotel or make other arrangements.
  • Know your area’s flood risk. If unsure, call your local emergency management agency or planning and zoning department, or visit www.floodsmart.gov.

Property insurance does not typically cover flood damage. Talk to your insurance provider about your policy and consider adding coverage. The National Flood Insurance Program is designed to provide flood insurance in exchange for the management of flood-prone areas by local communities.

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During a Hurricane

If a hurricane is likely in your area, you should:

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  • Listen to the radio,TV or download the Ready Georgia app.
  • Secure your home, close storm shutters, secure outdoor objects or bring them indoors.
  • Turn off utilities if instructed to do so. Otherwise, turn the refrigerator thermostat to its coldest setting and keep doors closed.
  • Turn off propane tanks.
  • Avoid using the phone, except for emergencies.
  • Moor your boat if possible.
  • Fill the bathtub and other larger containers with water for sanitary purposes such as cleaning and flushing toilets.

Evacuate under the following conditions:

  • Local authorities direct you to do so.
  • You live in a mobile home, temporary structure or high-rise building.
  • You live on the coast, on a floodplain, near a river or on an island waterway.

If you are unable to evacuate, go to your safe room. If you do not have one, follow these guidelines:

  • Stay indoors during the hurricane, away from windows or glass doors.
  • Close all interior doors. Secure and brace external doors.
  • Take refuge in an interior room, closet or hallway on the lowest level. If flooding occurs, be prepared to take shelter on a higher floor.
After a Hurricane
  • Listen to NOAA Weather Radio, watch TV, listen to the radio or check the Internet for official news and instructions.
  • Be alert for tornadoes and flooding.
  • Stay out of flood waters, if possible.
  • Stay away from downed power lines.
  • Don’t return to your home until authorities say it is safe. Hazards could include weakened bridges, unstable buildings and contaminated drinking water.