Everything Space Coast Residents Need to Know Before the Next Storm
Hurricane season officially runs from June 1 through November 30 each year, and for Florida residents, preparation should begin long before a storm appears in the forecast.
Whether you're a lifelong Floridian or a recent transplant to the Space Coast, understanding how hurricanes work and having a plan in place can help protect your family, pets, property, and peace of mind.
This guide covers hurricane tracking, emergency contacts, evacuation planning, supply checklists, and recovery tips to help you stay ready throughout the season.
Understanding Hurricane Season
The Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 through November 30, with activity typically peaking between August and October.
Hurricanes can bring:
Storm surge
Inland flooding
High winds
Tornadoes
Extended power outages
Coastal erosion
While coastal communities face storm surge risks, inland areas can experience devastating flooding and wind damage as well.
How Hurricane Tracking Works
Meteorologists monitor tropical systems from the moment they develop off the coast of Africa, in the Caribbean, or the Gulf of Mexico.
Tropical Disturbance
A cluster of thunderstorms with the potential for development.
Tropical Depression
A developing system with sustained winds up to 38 mph.
Tropical Storm
A storm with sustained winds between 39 and 73 mph.
Once a storm reaches this stage, it receives an official name.
Hurricane
A tropical cyclone with sustained winds of 74 mph or greater.
Understanding Hurricane Categories
Category 1
74–95 mph winds
Minor roof damage
Downed tree limbs
Power outages
Category 2
96–110 mph winds
Significant roof damage
Uprooted trees
Extended power outages
Category 3 (Major Hurricane)
111–129 mph winds
Structural damage possible
Major power disruptions
Dangerous storm surge
Category 4
130–156 mph winds
Catastrophic damage
Significant flooding
Long-term utility outages
Category 5
157+ mph winds
Severe structural destruction
Major flooding
Areas may become uninhabitable for weeks or months
Hurricane Watches vs. Warnings
Hurricane Watch
Conditions are possible within 48 hours.
This is the time to:
Review plans
Fill gas tanks
Gather supplies
Monitor forecasts closely
Hurricane Warning
Conditions are expected within 36 hours.
This is the time to:
Complete preparations
Follow evacuation orders
Stay informed
Seek shelter
2026 Atlantic Hurricane Names
The Atlantic storm naming list rotates every six years.
The 2026 list includes:
Andrea
Barry
Chantal
Dexter
Erin
Fernand
Gabrielle
Humberto
Imelda
Jerry
Karen
Lorenzo
Melissa
Nestor
Olga
Pablo
Rebekah
Sebastien
Tanya
Van
Wendy
Create a Family Emergency Plan
Every household should have a written emergency plan.
Include:
Emergency Contacts
Family members
Out-of-state contact
Schools
Doctors
Veterinarians
Meeting Locations
Home
Neighborhood meeting point
Out-of-town destination
Communication Plan
Cell networks may become overloaded during major disasters.
Have printed copies of important contact information available.
Don't Forget Your Pets
Prepare a pet emergency kit that includes:
Seven days of food
Water
Medications
Leash
Carrier
Vaccination records
Favorite toys and comfort items
Research pet-friendly shelters before a storm threatens.
Florida Hurricane Emergency Kit Checklist
Water
□ One gallon per person per day
□ Seven-day supply minimum
□ Additional water for pets
Food
□ Canned goods
□ Protein bars
□ Peanut butter
□ Dried fruit
□ Shelf-stable snacks
□ Baby formula if needed
□ Manual can opener
Medical Supplies
□ Prescription medications
□ First aid kit
□ Extra eyeglasses
□ Medical records
□ Thermometer
Electronics
□ Flashlights
□ Extra batteries
□ Portable power banks
□ Battery-powered weather radio
□ Charging cables
Important Documents
□ Driver's licenses
□ Insurance policies
□ Mortgage information
□ Medical records
□ Emergency contact list
Store documents in waterproof containers.
Household Supplies
□ Garbage bags
□ Moist towelettes
□ Toilet paper
□ Cleaning supplies
□ Tarps
□ Duct tape
□ Basic tools
Pet Supplies
□ Food
□ Water
□ Medications
□ Carrier
□ Leash
□ Vaccination records
Protecting Your Home Before the Storm
Before hurricane season reaches its peak:
Outside
Trim trees
Remove dead branches
Secure outdoor furniture
Clean gutters
Inspect drainage areas
Inside
Review insurance coverage
Photograph valuables
Check smoke detectors
Test backup batteries
Roof & Windows
Inspect roof condition
Check flashing
Verify shutters are operational
Seal gaps around windows and doors
Know Your Evacuation Zone
If local officials issue an evacuation order, leave as directed.
Know:
Your evacuation zone
Multiple evacuation routes
Nearby shelters
Hotel options inland
Never wait until roads become congested.
Important Florida Emergency Contacts
Emergency
911
Florida Emergency Information Line
1-800-342-3557
FEMA Disaster Assistance
1-800-621-3362
American Red Cross
1-800-733-2767
Florida Division of Emergency Management
FloridaDisaster.org
National Hurricane Center
NHC.NOAA.gov
National Weather Service
Weather.gov
Brevard County Emergency Management
(321) 637-6670
Florida Power & Light Outage Reporting
1-800-468-8243
Community Information Line
211
After the Storm
Once conditions are safe:
Stay Away From
Downed power lines
Floodwater
Damaged structures
Document Damage
Take photos and videos before beginning cleanup.
Contact Insurance Quickly
The sooner claims are filed, the sooner recovery can begin.
Use Generators Safely
Generators should only be operated outdoors and away from windows and doors.
Never run a generator inside a garage or home.
Final Thoughts
Hurricanes are part of life in Florida, but preparation can dramatically reduce their impact on your family and property.
Take time now to build your emergency kit, review your evacuation plan, secure your home, and stay informed throughout the season.
When a storm is approaching, it's too late to start planning. The best time to prepare is today.
Stay safe, stay informed, and enjoy everything that makes life on Florida's Space Coast special.