Hurricane Preparedness Week

National Hurricane Preparedness Week is May 3-9, 2026. It's important to be ready before the next storm comes. Find out ways you can prepare below! Information provided by NOAA Hurricane Preparedness.

Know Your Risk: Water & Wind

Hurricanes bring flooding, high winds, and other threats. Know if you live in an area prone to flooding and identify any structural weaknesses in your home.

Determine if you live in a floodplain or flood-prone area

A floodplain is the area next to a creek or river that floods. Anyone living in a flood-prone area is especially vulnerable to hurricane impacts. Find more information about your flood risk and property on our portal!

Identify your home's structural risks

Some parts of your home can be strengthened to help withstand hurricane impacts. Mobile homes are more vulnerable to hurricane-force winds, and basements are more vulnerable to storm surge and flooding.

Prepare Before Hurricane Season

Hurricane season is June 1 through November 30. Planning for emergencies will help ensure everyone in your household will know what to expect and what to do in case a disaster strikes.

Build An Emergency Kit

The Ready Raleigh Guide provides detailed information about how to contact government agencies for specific information before or after an emergency, how to compile an emergency kit, and what to do during specific natural and man-made hazards.

Get an insurance checkup & document your possessions

Homeowners and business insurance policies do not cover losses from floods or flood damage. Flood insurance policies must be purchased separately to protect valuable assets, such as a home, business, and possessions. Act now, as flood insurance requires a 30-day waiting period. Learn more about flood insurance.

Understand Forecast Information

Understand weather forecasts can tell you a lot about what is expected, including the storm's paths, rainfall amounts, and wind speeds.

Difference Between a Watch & Warning

A Hurricane Watch means hurricane conditions are possible in the area, with tropical-storm-force winds beginning in the next 48 hours. Make sure your emergency kit is ready. A Hurricane Warning means hurricane conditions are expected in the warning area, with tropical-storm-force winds beginning within 36 hours. Seek shelter in a sturdy structure or evacuate if ordered.

Sign Up for Weather Alerts

ReadyWake! Alerts is a free alert service that requires registration. Wake County residents and those working in Wake County can sign up to receive customized alerts via phone call, text, and/or email. Alerts are based on the location provided during registration and not the location of your wireless device. Sign up for ReadyWake! Alerts.

Get Moving When a Storm Threatens

When a storm is forecast to impact your area, take action immediately to be ready. Being ready before the storm will help taking action during the storm.

Taking Action

During a storm, it's important to protect yourself and your home, determine if sheltering in your home or in a local space, have your emergency kit ready, connect with neighbors for assistance, and follow evacuation orders if given.

Stay Protected During Storms

During a hurricane, whether you've evacuated or are sheltering in place, know what to expect from the hazards you may face.

Stay in your safe places from water & wind

If your house becomes flooded, get higher in your house to escape the flood waters. Call 911 in emergencies or trapped in flood waters. If driving during a storm, never drive in flood waters. Turn around and find a safe location to shelter.

Use Caution After Storms

Dangers remain even after the storm passes, so it's important to stay vigilant.

• Be careful near damaged buildings. Check for loose power lines, gas leaks, and structural damage, including dangerous debris such as nails or glass. Leave your home if there's shifting or unusual noises. If you smell gas, get outdoors immediately and call 911.
• Stay far away from downed power lines. They may be on the ground, hidden in water, or dangling overhead.
• Never drive or walk through flooded roads. Flood waters can compromise roads and contain bacteria, chemicals, and other harmful objects. Flooded rivers can continue to rise long after a storm passes.

Take Action Today

Take action today to be better prepared for when the next storm happens. Being knowledgable in storm threats, weather alerts, and emergency actions can make a difference. Learn more about how to get assistance after a disaster.