Atlantic and East Coast
East Coast hurricane preparedness
From Florida to the Northeast, coastal water, wind, and inland rain call for different plans. Start with your local forecast and evacuation zone.
Know your exposure before a storm
- Coastal flooding and surge: Check your county or city evacuation zone, including areas along bays, rivers, and estuaries. NHC surge maps help show potential exposure; local officials decide evacuation orders.
- Wind and outages: Secure loose outdoor items before conditions deteriorate. Plan for a safe shelter, lost power, and people who depend on electricity for medical needs.
- Inland rain: Heavy rainfall can cause flooding far from the coast and after the storm weakens. Identify flood-prone roads and never drive through floodwater.
- Surf and rip currents: Follow beach closures and local warnings even when a storm remains offshore.
Find your local forecast and evacuation plan
Enter your city or ZIP code at the National Weather Service. Save your county or city emergency management alerts, evacuation zone, route, and shelter information. If officials order an evacuation, follow their timing and destination guidance.
Discuss transport, medicines, pets, and a contact outside the affected area with your household before a warning. An evacuation zone and a flood insurance zone serve different purposes; check the local evacuation map directly.
Build your household kit
Start with drinking water, food you already use, medicines, lighting, a weather radio, and phone charging. Keep essential documents and supplies ready to take if your household must leave.
The supply guides contain disclosed Amazon affiliate links. Official forecasts and evacuation instructions come first.