Tropical Storm Helene, currently forming in the Caribbean, is projected to intensify into a hurricane and make landfall on Florida’s Gulf Coast later this week. With the National Hurricane Center forecasting Helene to potentially gain wind speeds of up to 80 mph by Thursday, Hillsborough County residents must prepare for significant storm surge, strong winds, and major flooding. It’s crucial for Hillsborough County residents to be prepared. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe before and after Hurricane Helene.

Before the Storm

Know Your Zone:

First and foremost, determine if you live in an evacuation zone. Use Hillsborough County’s Hurricane Evacuation Assessment Tool (HEAT) to find your zone and nearby shelters.

Prepare Your Emergency Kit:

Assemble a disaster supplies kit with:

• Battery-powered radio
• Flashlights and extra batteries
• First-aid kit
• Non-perishable food and water (at least 3 days’ worth)
• Essential medications
• Important documents

Remember to account for all family members, including those with special needs and pets.

Secure Your Property:

• Review your insurance policies
• Prepare your home for high winds and heavy rain
• Consider using sandbags or alternatives like bags of mulch to prevent flooding: https://hcfl.gov/residents/stay-safe/sandbags
• Hurricane Prep for Farms: https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/hillsboroughco/2022/09/08/hurricane-prep-for-farms/
• Tips for 4-H members and their Pets: https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/hillsboroughco/2024/07/26/be-hurricane-ready-tips-for-4-h-members-and-their-pets/

Stay Informed:

• National Hurricane Center: https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/
• Hillsborough County Hurricane & Tropical Storm Preparedness Website: https://hcfl.gov/residents/public-safety/emergency-management/hurricane-and-tropical-storm-preparedness
• Hillsborough County Stay Safe Residents: https://hcfl.gov/residents/stay-safe
• Sign up for HCFL Alert to receive time-sensitive emergency information: https://hcfl.gov/residents/public-safety/emergency-management/hcfl-alert
• Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Hurricane Resource Center: https://www.teamhcso.com/Section/9857006d-615c-4ed6-bcd3-5e07d139c475/Hurricane-Resource-Center
• UF/IFAS Disaster Preparation & Recovery website: https://disaster.ifas.ufl.edu/

After the Storm

Safety First:

• Check your surroundings for hazards like downed power lines
• Avoid driving through flooded streets
• Assume all wires are live

Assess and Document Damage:

Before starting any cleanup, document all damage for insurance purposes.

Clean Up Safely:

For help with property cleanup, contact Crisis Cleanup at 844-965-1386. They can connect you with volunteers from local organizations.

Caring for Trees After a Major Storm: https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/hillsboroughco/2020/05/06/caring-for-trees-after-a-major-storm/

For more information on hurricane preparedness and recovery, visit Hillsborough County’s official website or contact the Office of Emergency Management.

Stay safe, Hillsborough County!

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