Gov. Ron DeSantis detailed several preparations for Floridians to protect their families, homes, and businesses with the start of 2026 Atlantic hurricane season beginning this week while speaking at a press conference in Orlando.
The governor's Five Steps to Hurricane Preparedness includes:
- Know Your Home, Know Your Zone - Floridians should know their home's risks and if they live in an evacuation zone.
- Make a Plan - Develop a family emergency plan and plan discuss evacuation and communication measures in case of a storm.
- Build a Kit - Stock up on disaster supplies, including food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, pet supplies, and other items.
- Halfway Full is Halfway There - Keep vehicles fueled ahead of a storm to avoid long gas lines or shortages in case evacuation is necessary.
- Evacuate Tens of Miles, Not Hundreds - Follow local guidance from local officials, including police departments, on evacuation necessity and distance measures.
"The 2026 Atlantic hurricane season just started, but Florida is dedicated to disaster preparedness all year round," DeSantis wrote on social media. "We always plan for the worst that nature can throw at us, and we execute those plans to ensure effective response, recovery, and restoration. I encourage all Florida residents and visitors to have a household plan for hurricane season that considers the needs of children, seniors, and pets in their family. Disaster preparedness essentials—including many pet items—are now tax-free in Florida."
While Florida experienced no hurricanes in 2025, the state was hit hard with Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton in 2024. According to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA), the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season is expected to be "below-normal," but it's still always good for residents to prepare for the worst.
"Preparedness starts long before a storm forms," Florida Division of Emergency Management Executive Director Kevin Guthrie added. "Through training, collaboration, and education, we are building stronger, more resilient communities and ensuring emergency management professionals are equipped to respond when disasters occur. Every exercise, workshop, and discussion strengthens our collective readiness for the season ahead."
The 2026 Atlantic hurricane season began on June 1 and runs till Nov. 30.
