The 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season is almost here and now is the time to prepare both your family and your home for what lies ahead. The Atlantic Hurricane Season lasts from June 1st to November 30th. While forecasts continue to evolve, you should not rely solely on the predictions and models for the year. Hurricanes can have a mind of their own and take a sudden shift at any moment, so being prepared is critical.
According to the NOAA Climate Prediction Center, there is a 61% chance that El Nino conditions will emerge and persist through the end of 2026. During the El Nino year, trade winds weaken. Warmer water is pushed east towards the western coast of America. El Nino peaks around December. The warmth of our air can affect our weather significantly. El Nino and La Nina refer to the trend in temperatures of our air. Some years are warmer than others, and those years are referred to as El Nino years, while La Nina years coincide with colder air.
Stay Informed
Knowledge is your first line of defense. Stay updated on the latest forecasts and alerts from reliable sources like the National Hurricane Center (NHC) or your local emergency management agency. You can find a list of your state’s emergency contact information at the bottom of our Disaster Center page. Consider downloading weather apps that offer real-time updates and storm tracking features.
Pro Tip: Sign up for emergency alerts via text or email through your local government’s alert system.
Review Your Insurance Coverage
Before a storm is on the radar, take time to review your homeowners insurance policy. Make sure you understand what is and isn’t covered, including wind damage, flooding, and temporary housing expenses.
Pro Tip: Flood damage is not typically included in standard homeowners policies. If you live in a flood-prone area, look into a separate flood insurance policy.
Create a Hurricane Emergency Kit
A well-stocked emergency kit can make a huge difference if you lose power or need to evacuate. Here’s what to include:
Food & Water 
- 14 days’ worth of non-perishable/canned food
- Non-electric can opener
- Paper/plastic plates, utensils, cups
- Paper towels
- Propane tanks, propane grill, and grill-safe cookware
- 14 days’ worth of water: 1 gallon per person, per day
First Aid
- Comprehensive first aid kit
- Bug spray
- Prescription medications
- Over-the-counter medications
- List of all medications currently taken by family members
Baby Supplies
- One week’s worth of formula
- Bottles
- Baby wipes
- Rash cream
- One week’s worth of diapers
- Toys
- Blankets
Supplies for Seniors 
- Extra food for special dietary needs
- Extra water, as dehydration can be an issue for the elderly. Consider using smaller bottles that are easier for them to drink from.
- Medicare card information, living will, power of attorney
- Extra medical supplies as necessary
- Extra batteries for medical supplies
- Cane, walker, or wheelchair to ease transportation if applicable.
Supplies for Pets
- One week’s worth of food and water
- Leash, collar, harness, crate
- Toys and chewers
- Medications if applicable
- Up-to-date vaccination records
- ID tags
- Contact information for primary care veterinarian
Other Supplies 
- Extra cash
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- NOAA weather radio
- AM/FM radio with extra batteries
- Flashlights with extra batteries
- Battery powered lanterns
- Waterproof lighter
- Duct tape
- Feminine care products
- Basic toolset
- Extra maps of local areas and state highways
- Copies of directions to the nearest evacuation shelter
- Spare tire for vehicles
- Roadside triangles and tools
- Extra blankets
- Board games, cards, and other activities
- Emergency phone charger
- Generator with backup fuel
- Fire extinguisher
- Trash bags and disinfectant wipes
- Toilet paper
- Soap
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
Make a Plan
Plan how you’ll stay in touch if you’re separated during a storm. Choose a central contact person out of the area and make sure everyone knows how to reach them. Discuss evacuation routes, safe meeting points, and emergency contacts. Plan what to do if you are separated from your family, where you will meet, how you will stay in contact, etc.
Know your evacuation zone and plan your evacuation route. Every minute counts during a hurricane warning. Familiarize yourself with your local evacuation routes and shelters ahead of time. If authorities issue an evacuation order, leave as early as possible, especially if you are evacuating with seniors, pets, or those needing extra assistance. If you are evacuating with pets, be sure that the shelter will allow you to bring them.
Prepare Your Home
Protecting your property now can help you avoid costly repairs later. Start by clearing gutters and drains to ensure proper water flow and prevent flooding. Trim trees and remove any dead branches that could fall during high winds. Secure outdoor furniture and loose items to prevent them from becoming projectiles in a storm. Install storm shutters or board up windows to protect against flying debris, and reinforce garage doors, which are often vulnerable in high winds. Finally, check your sump pump and backup power sources to make sure they’re in working order before a storm hits.
The 2026 hurricane season may bring challenges, but with the right preparation, you can weather any storm. Don’t wait until a hurricane is on the horizon, start preparing today to protect your family, home, and peace of mind.
