5 Hurricane Prep Habits Floridians Have Down to a Science (While Newbies Cry in the Water Aisle)

When hurricane season rolls around, Floridians spring into action like seasoned veterans of the storm game.

From stocking up on essentials to fortifying their homes, Florida natives know how to stay safe and (somehow) keep their sense of humor intact.

If you’re wondering how they do it, here’s a breakdown of the hurricane prep strategies Floridians swear by.

Stocking Up Like It’s a Competitive Sport

The moment a hurricane is announced, grocery stores across Florida transform into battlegrounds. Seasoned Floridians know to stock up early, avoiding the mad dash for bottled water and canned goods.

Essential items include non-perishable foods, batteries, flashlights, and enough water to last at least three days for each family member. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), a gallon of water per person per day is the rule of thumb.

In addition to the basics, Floridians have their own unique “must-haves.”

Some swear by comfort foods like cookies and chips, while others stock up on wine and beer to make waiting out the storm more bearable. And let’s not forget the infamous “hurricane snacks”—those junk foods you only buy when a storm’s coming.

While the rest of the country might find this odd, Floridians know that a little indulgence can go a long way during stressful times.

Another pro tip?

Gas up the car before everyone else. Long lines at gas stations are a given, but locals who plan ahead avoid the chaos. Having a full tank is essential not just for evacuations but also for powering generators.

Securing the Fort

When a hurricane is on the horizon, Floridians transform into amateur engineers. Boarding up windows is one of the first steps, using plywood or storm shutters to protect against flying debris.

Many homes in hurricane-prone areas are equipped with impact-resistant windows, but even these can benefit from extra reinforcement.

According to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety, well-secured windows and doors can significantly reduce storm damage.

Another key task is clearing the yard. Anything not nailed down—from patio furniture to garden gnomes—becomes a potential projectile in hurricane-force winds.

Locals know to store these items indoors or in a secure shed. Even large objects like grills or trampolines need to be tied down or taken inside.

Generators are another staple of hurricane prep. Power outages are almost guaranteed, so having a generator can be a game-changer.

Floridians make sure theirs are in working order before the season starts, and many also keep portable chargers and solar-powered gadgets on hand for extra backup.

After all, nobody wants to lose their phone battery in the middle of a storm.

Keeping an Eye on the Forecast

Floridians treat weather updates like breaking news, especially during hurricane season.

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) becomes one of the most-visited websites as locals track storm paths, wind speeds, and potential landfall locations. With modern technology, locals rely on smartphone apps for real-time updates and alerts.

Popular apps include MyRadar and NOAA Weather, which provide detailed forecasts and emergency information.

Understanding hurricane categories is another essential skill. Floridians can recite the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale like it’s the alphabet.

A Category 1 storm might just bring heavy rain and gusty winds, but anything above a Category 3—also known as a major hurricane—demands serious preparation.

According to the NHC, even a small shift in a storm’s path can mean the difference between a minor inconvenience and a life-threatening situation.

Local news stations also play a huge role. Meteorologists like Bryan Norcross have become household names in Florida, offering trusted advice and calming nerves during storm coverage.

Floridians know to take these experts seriously while also keeping a skeptical eye on the infamous “cone of uncertainty.”

The Art of Evacuating (or Not)

Deciding whether to evacuate is a big decision for Floridians. Mandatory evacuation orders are issued for areas most at risk, such as coastal regions and mobile home parks.

Residents in these zones typically don’t hesitate to pack up and leave, knowing that safety comes first. Many locals keep a go-bag ready with essentials like clothes, medications, and important documents for these situations.

For those who choose to stay, preparation is key. Sheltering in place means having enough supplies to ride out the storm, as well as a safe area to retreat to if things get rough.

Many homes have a designated “safe room,” often a windowless interior space like a bathroom or closet.

According to Ready.gov, these rooms should be stocked with emergency supplies, including a first aid kit and a battery-powered radio.

Pets are another important consideration. Most Floridians ensure they have sufficient food, water, and carriers for their pets. Many shelters accept pets, but it’s always a good idea to check ahead of time and make arrangements.

Staying Calm and Entertained

One thing Floridians excel at is keeping their cool, even in the face of a hurricane. They’ve mastered the art of staying entertained while hunkering down.

Board games, puzzles, and books are popular choices, as are streaming movies—assuming the power holds out. Social media also plays a big role, with locals sharing memes, updates, and even storm-related humor to lighten the mood.

Community spirit is a hallmark of hurricane season.

Neighbors help each other prepare, whether it’s boarding up windows or sharing supplies. After the storm passes, they’re often the first to lend a hand with cleanup efforts. This sense of solidarity makes even the toughest storms a little easier to weather.