Hurricane Preparedness: Understanding Your Evacuation Zone

Hurricane Season Preparedness

• 🗓️ The Atlantic hurricane season officially begins June 1st, making preparedness crucial, especially after last year's experiences.
• 💡 A small but important step you can take today is to look up your evacuation zone online and save this information.

Evacuation Zones vs. Flood Zones

• 🗺️ Evacuation zones are mapped by the National Hurricane Center and indicate areas vulnerable to storm surge.
• ⚠️ This differs from flood zones, which are federally identified and indicate general flood risk.
• 📢 Local emergency officials will identify which evacuation zones need to be cleared if a storm approaches.

Identifying Your Zone

• 💻 Counties provide color-coded maps online where you can enter your zip code or address to find your specific zone.
• 🅰️ Evacuation zones are assigned letters, with Zone A typically being the most vulnerable and the first to be ordered to evacuate.
• 🚨 If an evacuation order is issued, it signifies that the area is prone to flooding or catastrophic damage, and you should adhere to the order.

Evacuation Safety and Supplies

• 🏠 If an evacuation order is given, you don't need to leave the state; aim for a safe distance away from the affected area.
• 🏨 This could mean going to a shelter, a neighbor's or family member's home, or a hurricane-rated hotel (two or more stories).
• 🛒 In addition to knowing your zone, assess your hurricane kit supplies and identify what you still need.
• 💰 Note that the state's tax-free holiday for hurricane supplies has not yet begun due to the state budget not being signed.