Hurricane season is here — and as every seasoned Floridian knows, it’s not a matter of if the storms come, but when. The 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season has officially begun, and while we can’t control the weather, we can control how ready we are to face it.

Whether you’re a longtime Florida resident or new to the Sunshine State, now is the time to review your insurance policies, strengthen your home’s defenses, and prepare your household for potential storm impact.

âś… Preparation is Power: Start with PrepareFL.com

The Florida Department of Financial Services has launched PrepareFL.com — a one-stop hub for storm preparedness and recovery resources. From evacuation plans to insurance guides, this website is designed to help you prepare smarter and recover faster.

The key message? Planning ahead saves lives, property, and stress.

 

🏠 Key Steps to Protect Your Home and Family

Here are some of the most important, and often overlooked, steps you can take right now to get ready:

  1. Secure Flood Insurance Before It’s Too Late

💧 Did you know? Flooding is not covered by standard homeowners insurance.

Even if you’re not directly on the water, Florida’s flat landscape makes flooding a risk almost anywhere during heavy storms. Fortunately, Florida has over 30 private insurers offering flood policies, and many homeowners also qualify for the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

Important: Most flood policies take 30 days to go into effect — so don’t wait until a storm is approaching. By then, it’s already too late.

  1. Review & Update Your Insurance Coverage

🏡 Have you renovated your home recently? Bought new furniture? Upgraded appliances?

If your property’s value has changed, your insurance policy may be outdated. Make sure your current coverage reflects the true replacement cost of your home and belongings. A quick review with your insurance agent can ensure you’re fully protected.

  1. Don’t Forget Additional Living Expense (ALE) Coverage

When disaster strikes, it’s not just about the repairs — it’s about where you’ll live while those repairs happen.

ALE coverage helps cover the cost of:

  • Hotel or motel stays
  • Temporary rentals
  • Restaurant meals
  • Storage unit fees

Confirm that your policy includes this critical protection, and understand how to access it if your home becomes uninhabitable.

  1. Make Changes Before a Storm Is Named

🚨 Once a hurricane is forecasted in your area, insurance companies may pause new policies and coverage changes.

This is why acting now — not later — is essential. Call your agent or insurer today to make any updates, ask questions, or purchase new coverage before storms develop in the Atlantic.

 

📦 Emergency Kits & Evacuation Plans Save Lives

Insurance is one part of the puzzle. Here are two more critical pieces:

  • Assemble an Emergency Kit: Include water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, medications, pet supplies, chargers, and important documents.
  • Create an Evacuation Plan: Know your route, identify shelters, and coordinate with family members. Don’t forget to make arrangements for pets.

 

đź’¬ Final Thoughts: Proactive Protection is the Best Defense

Hurricanes are part of Florida life — but devastation doesn’t have to be.

By securing flood insurance, reviewing your policies, and taking advantage of the resources on PrepareFL.com, you can face the 2025 hurricane season with confidence and resilience.

Don’t wait for the storm to form — act now, protect what matters, and give yourself peace of mind.