Safety

Know Your Evacuation Zone

If a hurricane threatens your area, having a plan in place can reduce fear and anxiety.

One of the first steps is determining if you live in a storm surge evacuation zone. If you do, you need to decide where you would go and how you would get there.

If you live outside flood-prone areas, help your friends and family members who live in evacuation zones by offering your home as an evacuation destination.

How can I find evacuation zones in my community?

If you live in an evacuation zone, make an evacuation plan and identify local resources for safe shelter.

Find Your Evacuation Zone

The amount of time needed to evacuate depends on the size of the vulnerable population, high-hazard areas, and transportation routes.

Be prepared for extremely heavy traffic with slow highway speeds and limited access to gas stations, restaurants, and restrooms. Residents in highly vulnerable areas should leave the area sooner than later.

If you need to evacuate, remember to:

  • Fill up your gas tank.
  • Bring identification, insurance papers, and other important documents for every family member.
  • Bring adequate water, snacks, cash, medications, masks, and hand sanitizer.
  • Follow all special traffic signs and law enforcement orders.
  • Move your vehicle out of traffic lanes if it breaks down.
  • Only call 911 if there is a life-threatening emergency.