Today marks the last day of Hurricane Preparedness Week.
With the start of the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season just over three weeks away, the topic on May 9 rounds up the week with this reminder: “Take action TODAY.” The emphasis on today comes from NOAA.
Every year, no matter what the predictions are, forecasters urge residents to prepare early for hurricanes rather than wait until a storm is approaching.
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The National Hurricane Center and National Weather Service established May 3-9, 2026, as Hurricane Preparedness Week.
The week covered a different topic each day, providing valuable information for those new to hurricanes and good reminders to seasoned Florida residents.
Early predictions are for a below-normal season but in records dating back to 1851, Florida has been hit by more hurricanes than any other state so it pays to be prepared.
Hurricane Preparedness Week 2026 covered variety of topics
To raise awareness about the dangers posed by hurricanes and tropical storms and encourage people to prepare early for storms, the National Hurricane Center and National Weather Service established May 3-9, 2026, as Hurricane Preparedness Week.
➤ Miss a day? Here are highlights and links to each day’s story
The week covered various topics each day, providing valuable information for those new to hurricanes and good reminders for seasoned Florida residents.
Hurricane Preparedness Week, Day 7: ‘Take action TODAY’
“Are you ready for hurricane season?” NOAA asked.
“Take action TODAY to be better prepared for when the worst happens. Even if you are already well-prepared and knowledgeable, there may be additional things you could do or learn to be even more prepared.”
➤ Miss a day? Here are more details and links to each day’s story
Among the subjects covered since May 3 are learning to understand the risks associated with hurricanes — it’s not just about the wind — what those watches and warnings mean, and what you should do, before before, during and after a storm.
Some highlights from the week we’ll focus on today include the following things you can do right now.
Here’s how to find out if you live in an evacuation zone
Here’s how to find out if you live in a storm surge evacuation zone:
In the event of a storm, you’ll also see information on any current evacuations.
Storm surge causes largest loss of life in hurricanes
“Storm surge is water that is pushed toward the shore by winds swirling around the storm, and historically has caused the largest loss of life in hurricanes,” NOAA said.
“This rise in water level can cause severe flooding in coastal areas, which can submerge entire areas, cause structural damage to buildings, and wash out roads.”
➤ NHC storm surge risk map
Storm surge is not limited to along the coast. It can travel several miles inland, especially along bays, rivers, and estuaries, NOAA said.
What should you put in a hurricane kit?
“Whether you’re evacuating or sheltering in place, you’re going to need supplies not just to get through the storm but for the potentially lengthy and unpleasant aftermath,” NOAA said.
“Have enough non-perishable food, water and medicine to last each person in your family a minimum of three days. Store a longer than three-day supply of water, if possible.”
➤ Don’t have a hurricane supply kit? From the basics to the extras, here’s what you need
Remember, in the aftermath of a hurricane, electricity and water could be out for weeks.
“You’ll need extra cash, a battery-powered radio and flashlights. You may need a portable crank or solar-powered USB charger for your cell phones.”
Not sure what to put in an emergency kit? Here are a few checklists:
Strengthen your home now, check your insurance
“Now is the time to improve your home’s ability to withstand hurricane impacts,” NOAA said.
“Hurricane-force winds can turn landscaping materials into missiles that can break windows and doors.
Among the suggestions are:
➤ FEMA tips to prepare your home for hurricane season
“Call your insurance company or agent and ask for an insurance check-up to make sure you have enough insurance to repair or even replace your home and/or belongings,” NOAA said.
➤ Before hurricane season, what to check on Florida insurance policies
When is the Atlantic hurricane season?
The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30.
➤ Hurricane Center testing new cone: What’s changing this season?
Countdown clock to start of 2026 hurricane season
What are predictions for 2026 hurricane season?
Here are some of the predictions released so far for this year’s hurricane season. NOAA will release its forecast toward the end of May.
A major hurricane is a storm that is a Category 3 or stronger, with maximum sustained winds of at least 111 mph.
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Could Florida be hit by a hurricane in 2026? See which counties have highest chance
What are names for 2026 Atlantic hurricane season?
Names for the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season, and how to pronounce them, are:
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What’s next?
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Cheryl McCloud is a journalist for the USA TODAY Network-Florida’s service journalism Connect team. You can get all of Florida’s best content directly in your inbox each weekday day by signing up for the free newsletter, Florida TODAY, at https://naples.com/newsletters.
This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: Hurricane Preparedness Week ends with advice to ‘Take action today’
Reporting by Cheryl McCloud, USA TODAY NETWORK – Florida / Treasure Coast Newspapers
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
