Living at the Beach? ’Tis the Season to Have Your Hurricane Season Game Plan Ready
Living at the beach in Northeast Florida comes with incredible perks, yet hurricane season is part of the reality. The good news is, with the right preparation, you can stay safe, protect your home, and avoid the last-minute scramble.
Hurricane Season Basics
Hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30. The most active stretch is usually mid-August through October, when storms are more likely to form and strengthen.
Know Your Evacuation Zone
If you live in Ponte Vedra Beach, Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, or Atlantic Beach, you’re likely in an evacuation zone—most commonly Zone A. Evacuation zones generally break down like this:
- Zone A (red) – Beaches, barrier islands, and low-lying coastal areas
- Zone B (orange) – Slightly inland but still at risk for flooding
- Zone C (yellow) – Further inland, lower risk
St. Johns County (Ponte Vedra Beach to Vilano Beach) Evacuation Map
Duval County Evacuation Map
To confirm your exact zone:
- St. Johns County: https://www.sjcfl.us/emergency-management/
- Duval County: https://www.coj.net/departments/fire-and-rescue/emergency-preparedness.
If you’re east of the Intracoastal, plan on evacuating early if a storm approaches.
What to Stock Before a Storm
Don’t wait until a storm is days away—stores fill up fast. Have these essentials ready:
Basic Supplies
- Water (1 gallon per person per day for at least 3–5 days)
- Non-perishable food
- Manual can opener
- Medications (at least a week’s supply)
Power & Communication
- Flashlights
- Extra batteries
- Portable phone chargers
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
Safety & Documents
- First aid kit
- Copies of insurance, ID, and important documents (plus digital backups)
- Cash (ATMs may not be working)
Extras
- Ice
- Garbage bags
- Pet and baby supplies if needed
Getting Your Home Ready
A little prep can make a big difference.
Outside:
- Bring in patio furniture and loose items
- Secure anything that could blow away
- Trim trees and remove debris
- Clear gutters and drains
Inside:
- Set the fridge and freezer to the coldest setting
- Charge all devices
- Move valuables off the floor if flooding is a concern
If you have storm shutters, install them early.
Sandbags & Flood Protection
Flooding is one of the biggest risks in beach communities. Local counties typically offer free sandbags ahead of major storms.
Tips:
- Place sandbags at doorways, garages, and low entry points
- Use plastic or tarps behind them for extra protection
- Pick them up early—supplies don’t last
Check your county website or local news for distribution locations.
When to Evacuate
If an evacuation order is issued, don’t wait. Have a plan in place:
- Know where you’ll go (friends, family, or an inland hotel)
- Keep your gas tank at least half full during peak season
- Pack a “go bag” with essentials, clothes, medications, and documents. Leaving early helps you avoid heavy traffic and unnecessary stress.
Important Local Contacts
Save these now so you’re not searching later:
- Emergency: 911
- St. Johns County Emergency Management: (904) 824-5550
- Duval County Emergency Preparedness: (904) 255-3110
- Non-Emergency Sheriff (St. Johns): (904) 824-8304
- Jacksonville Sheriff (Non-Emergency): (904) 630-0500
You can also sign up for emergency alerts through your county for real-time updates at https://www.jaxready.com/alerts
If you live or work in Jacksonville Beach, sign up for CodeRED alerts by texting BEACHES to 99411.
Final Thought
Hurricanes are unpredictable, but your preparation doesn’t have to be. If you live at the beach, it’s not about if a storm will come, it’s about being ready when it does.
Posted by Gwinn Volen on
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