![Hurricane preparedness kit.](http://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/news/files/2021/05/hurricane-supplies-300x200.jpg)
Hurricane season officially starts June 1, but it’s never too early to prepare. As a matter of fact, meteorologists at the National Hurricane Center are already issuing daily reports about tropical activity in the Atlantic Ocean amid a seven-year streak of pre-season storms.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecasts an above-normal Atlantic season, with 14 to 21 name storms – compared with 14 in an average – and three to six major hurricanes, rated Category 3 or higher.
Whether you’re new to Florida or need a refresher on how to prepare, UF’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is here to help with research-based information and other support for communities across Florida.
From helping families and businesses prepare for a storm, to staffing emergency operations centers and assessing economic impacts after an event, UF/IFAS helps Florida communities bounce back from disasters.
Disaster response is just one of the many ways UF/IFAS fulfills the land-grant mission. With more than 4,000 employees spread across UF main campus, 67 county Extension offices and more than a dozen research centers, UF/IFAS brings the university’s expertise to every corner of the Sunshine State—rain or shine.
Have a specific question? Want to know how to prepare?
Contact your local UF/IFAS Extension office or visit the UF/IFAS Disaster Preparation & Recovery website for tip sheets, infographics, how-to videos, bilingual information, and more.
Health, Home & Pets
If you’re hunkered down at home or have to move to a shelter, make sure you and your family are safe and have the supplies you need. With disruptions to supply chains for various products likely to continue, you may want to stock up sooner rather than later Find tips on drinking water, food safety, pets, finances and more. Find tips on drinking water, food safety, pets, finances and more.
READ MORE: Safe Handling of Food and Water in a Hurricane or Related Disaster
READ MORE: What Should I Do After My Drinking Well is Flooded?
Trees & Landscapes
A hurricane can wreak havoc on your home landscape. Find information on hiring an arborist, mitigating wind damage, flooding and more.
READ MORE: Preparing Your Landscape for Hurricane Season
Agriculture & Livestock
Agriculture is the second largest industry in Florida. Producers can learn how to prepare their operation, care for livestock and more.
Natural Resources & Marine Industries
From our coasts to our forests, Florida is rich in natural resources. Learn best practices for land managers, aquaculture operations, boaters and more.
And don’t forget to visit updates.emergency.ufl.edu for the latest information as well as additional resources to help you be prepared during this season.