Be Prepared: 2026 Hurricane Season

Published on June 01, 2026

Be Prepared: 2026 Hurricane Season

June 1 – November 30

Living in Collier County offers endless benefits, from our vibrant community spirit to our stunning natural landscapes. June 1 marks the official start of the Atlantic Hurricane Season; it’s time to pair that coastal lifestyle with a little proactive planning. While we’ve shown incredible resilience in the face of past storms like Hurricane Ian, being "Collier Ready" means staying one step ahead.

This year, the focus is on self-sufficiency and staying informed. We can do this! By taking a few simple steps now, you can enjoy the summer months with confidence and peace of mind.

Stay Informed: The Power of Alert Collier

In an emergency, seconds count. Collier County uses Alert Collier to notify thousands of residents instantly about safety issues. Whether it's a storm surge warning, a brush fire, or local flooding, this system delivers critical updates directly to you via voice call, text, or email.

Why sign up?

Targeted Alerts: You can register up to five addresses—such as your home, work, or your child’s school—to receive notifications specific to those locations.
Reliability: It is the fastest way to get verified information from County Emergency Management.
Easy Access: Register today at AlertCollier.com or simply call 3-1-1 within the county.

Be Self-Sufficient: The 7-Day Standard

Past seasons have taught us that while our county teams work tirelessly to restore services, the "first 72 hours are up to you." However, for stronger category storms, we now encourage all residents and businesses to be stocked with at least 7 days of supplies.

A well-prepared kit ensures you have what you need to keep your family and pets comfortable. Consider these essentials:

Hydration & Nutrition: One gallon of water per person per day and enough non-perishable food for the whole week.
Health & Safety: A first aid kit, a full supply of prescription medicines, and insect repellent.
Power & Communication: Extra batteries, flashlights, a battery-operated NOAA weather radio, and car chargers for your cell phones.
The "Extras": Cash (ATMs may be down), important documents such as insurance policies and prescriptions, sturdy shoes, rain gear, and comfort items like books or games for the kids.
Pet Care: Don't forget your furry family members! Ensure you have their records, leashes, and 7 days of food and water.

Review Your Coverage: The "Insurance Check"

Don't wait until a storm is named to check your coverage. Insurance companies often suspend new policy issuance or coverage changes as soon as a tropical watch is issued.

Confirm Flood Insurance: Remember, standard homeowners' insurance does not cover flood damage. If you don't have a policy, the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) typically has a 30-day waiting period before coverage begins.
Know Your Hurricane Deductible: In Florida, hurricane deductibles are often a percentage of your home's value (e.g., 2%, 5%, or 10%). On a $400,000 home, a 5% deductible means the first $20,000 of damage is out-of-pocket.
Digital Documentation: Use your phone to take a quick video walkthrough of every room and the exterior of your home. Save these to the cloud (Google Drive, iCloud, etc.), so you have "before" photos with a 2026 timestamp in case you need to file a claim.

Planning for Everyone

We encourage everyone to visit the Emergency Management website to explore the All Hazards Guide. It’s a fantastic resource for learning about evacuation zones, local shelters, and the Special Needs Program, which provides dedicated support for those who require extra assistance during an evacuation.

By preparing your 7-day kit and signing up for Alert Collier today, you are helping make our community stronger and more resilient. Let’s look forward to a safe and bright season ahead!