Miami-Dade County warns that hurricanes can bring destructive winds, heavy rain and storm surge, and that power and phone outages can last days, weeks or even months. The county asks residents to have supplies fully stocked by June 1, the start of hurricane season.
Make a family plan
Your family may not be together when a storm comes. The county suggests writing down:
- One contact person everyone calls
- Phone numbers of family, friends, neighbors and doctors
- Where important documents are kept, in a waterproof bag or box
- How older relatives or anyone with special needs will get help
- How to turn off the water, gas and electricity safely
Build a supply kit
Keep it in one place that everyone knows, and check it at least once a year. The county's list includes:
- Food that won't spoil, and water, for 7 days: one gallon per person per day, pets included
- A manual can opener, a battery radio or TV, and flashlights with extra batteries
- A first-aid kit, hygiene items and masks and gloves
- Cash, extra clothing and bedding
- Copies of IDs, insurance policies, prescriptions and other important papers
Protect your home
The county says windows and doors should be covered with county-approved storm shutters or 5/8-inch plywood, and trash should be cleared away before a storm because debris flies. Marinas close when sustained winds reach 39 mph, so secure boats early.
Stay informed
- Miami-Dade Alerts: sign up for emergency text messages.
- Ready Miami-Dade app: storm information for iPhone and Android.
- Storm surge planning zones: the county's map shows whether your address is at risk of storm surge.
- Evacuation help: the Emergency and Evacuation Assistance Program (EEAP) arranges specialized transportation for residents who need it. Register before the season.
For non-emergency questions before or after a storm, call 311. For an emergency, call 911.