As the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season officially kicks off today, officials across South Florida are urging residents to prepare early and thoroughly.
The call to action comes in the shadow of an increasingly volatile climate and the aftermath of a hyperactive 2024 season, which recorded 25 named storms, five major hurricanes, and catastrophic impacts from storms like Hurricane Helene, Hurricane Milton, and Hurricane Beryl—the earliest Category 5 storm ever recorded in the Atlantic basin.
With nine straight years of above-average activity, emergency managers say South Floridians can’t afford to take a “wait and see” approach.
Early preparations and tax-free savings
Hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, but storm activity can ramp up with little warning. Officials advise residents to start stocking up on supplies now to avoid empty shelves, long gas lines, and last-minute chaos.
Thanks to Florida’s Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday, which runs through June 14, residents can save on essential storm supplies like flashlights, batteries, tarps, portable generators, and more.
Shelter, services, and special needs registries
Both Miami-Dade and Broward Counties have detailed plans in place to assist residents with shelter and emergency services—but many of these require pre-registration:
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Broward County’s Vulnerable Population Registry allows individuals with disabilities or health concerns to register in advance to help cities plan post-storm responses. Registration is not a guarantee of services, but it provides critical insight for emergency planning. Residents can call 311 or 954-831-4000 for assistance.
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Miami-Dade’s Emergency and Evacuation Assistance Program (EEAP) is available for individuals with functional or medical needs who may not be able to evacuate on their own. Residents who depend on life-sustaining equipment, need specialized transportation, or require help with daily activities are encouraged to apply online at miamidade.gov/hurricane or by calling 311 for alternate formats.
Residents in assisted living facilities, nursing homes, and group homes are reminded that their institutions must follow their own emergency plans and mutual aid agreements during evacuations.
Know your flood and heat risks
While hurricanes often grab headlines with their wind speeds, officials warn that flooding and extreme heat remain underappreciated dangers in South Florida.
Miami-Dade, surrounded by major bodies of water and built on flat terrain with a shallow water table, is particularly vulnerable to flooding—even during tropical storms or prolonged rainfall. The County urges residents to visit miamidade.gov/flooding to better understand their flood risk and learn how to protect their property.
Residents are also reminded that South Florida’s heat season overlaps with hurricane season, running from May 1 through October 31. With the heat index often soaring past 100°F, vulnerable populations—including seniors, infants, pregnant women, and outdoor workers—should take precautions to stay cool and hydrated. Pets, too, should never be left in vehicles without air conditioning.
Stay informed and stay ready
For comprehensive guidance on how to prepare, Broward County offers a complete A–Z hurricane guide at Broward.org/Hurricane, while Miami-Dade provides updates and tools at miamidade.gov/hurricane.
Officials stress that making a plan, knowing your evacuation zone, and preparing supplies ahead of time are the best defenses against the stress and dangers of hurricane season.
