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Hurricane Prep List for Tampa Bay: Tips, Resources & More

Brace Yourselves, Tampa Bay! Essential Tips for Weathering the Storm

Hey there, Tampa Bay residents! We all know that living in paradise comes with its perks – sunshine, beaches, and all that jazz. But every once in a while, Mother Nature likes to throw a hurricane party, and it’s up to us to be the ultimate hosts.

Fear not, because hurricane preparation doesn’t have to be a stormy ordeal. Let’s ride the waves of readiness and make sure we’re all set when the winds start to blow.

From emergency supply recommendations to local news sources, this is your guide to hurricane preparation. Stay safe, everyone!

Hurricane Prep Tips

Stock up, secure your space, and stay connected.

Stay informed

Keep an eye on weather forecasts and updates from reliable sources.

Create an emergency kit

Prepare a hurricane survival kit with essentials.

Secure your home

Reinforce doors and windows with storm shutters or plywood.

Plan for evacuation

Know your evacuation routes and have a plan in place.

Stay indoors

Seek shelter in a small, windowless room on the lowest floor of your home.

Charge devices

Keep your phones and other essential devices charged.

Stay hydrated

Ensure you have enough drinking water for each family member!

Stay connected

Keep a battery-powered radio to stay updated on info.

Essentials you need to ride the hurricane

  • Water (one gallon per person per day for several days)
  • Food (at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food)
  • Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
  • Flashlight
  • First aid kit
  • Extra batteries
  • Whistle (to signal for help)
  • Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)
  • Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
  • Manual can opener (for food)
  • Local maps

Prep Your Home

If you’re staying home or want to make sure your house is well protected as you seek shelter somewhere else, here are some tips to prep your home before a hurricane.

  • Move all outdoor furniture and/or plants indoors (anything that can be picked up by wind)
  • Board up windows if necessary (homes near water)
  • Have an evacuation plan with friends/family
  • Keep a large cooler stored in your home incase of long power outages (move fridge items to cooler!)
  • Turn your refrigerator/freezer to the coolest setting
  • Trim your trees/shrubbery that are near or touching your home
  • Unplug electronics (even if you have a surge protector)
  • Make a plan ahead of time for your pets (dogs, cats, etc.)

Local News Sources

Local news sources are essential for information before, during, and after a storm. Check out these sources to stay updated on what’s going on in the Tampa Bay area.

Drive-Thru/Locations Offering Safety Kits/Supplies

Hillsborough County residents are eligible for a maximum of 10 sandbags per family. Residents must show ID verifying they live in the County; a driver’s license or utility bill will serve as proper identification.

Residents can call (813) 272-5900 to request additional information or visit HCFLGov.net/StaySafe.

Emergency Contact Information

  • Electric Power Outage or Safety Concern (TECO 24 hrs):
    Toll-free 1-877-588-1010 or view the TECO Outage Map
  • Mobility Department:
    Emergency Drainage/Flooding  (24 hours) : 813-274-3101
  • Tree Hotline/Emergency:
    Illegal Tree Removal (24 hours): 813-258-8733
    Fallen Tree (business hours 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM): 813-274-5744
    Fallen Tree (after hours 5:00 PM to Midnight): 813-931-2168
    Fallen Tree (after hours Midnight to 8:000 AM): 813-274-3101
  • Wastewater Emergency Repair / Sewer Backup : 813-247-3451
  • Water Department Emergency Services (24 hours) : 813-274-8811, Option 2

Curated by

McKennan Henninger

McKennan Henninger

McKennan is a UNATION team member and author of the Stuff to Do City Guide. For more insight on the best events and things to do near you, subscribe for updates and follow be sure to follow us on social!

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