Hurricane Information

HURRICANE SEASON

When is Hurricane Season?

The official Atlantic hurricane season is from June 1 to November 30. The majority of tropical activity occurs during these six months. Always be prepared for a storm year-round.

Tropical Climate – Know Your Weather

Tropical Depression: An organized system of clouds and thunderstorms with a defined surface circulation and maximum sustained winds of 38 mph (33kt) or less.

Tropical Storm: An organized system of strong thunderstorms with a defined surface circulation and maximum sustained winds of 39 - 73 mph (34 - 63 kt).

Hurricane: An intense tropical weather system of strong thunderstorms with a well-defined surface circulation and maximum sustained winds of 74 mph (64 kt) or higher. In other parts of the world, the word hurricane is synonymous with typhoon and cyclone.

Kits and Checklist

Emergency supplies should be fully stocked by June 1, the start of hurricane season. Once a hurricane warning is declared, most of your preparations should be directed toward your home.

Get your Hurricane supply kit.

Miami-Dade County

Miami-Dade County Hurricane Guide

Please review the Miami-Dade County Hurricane Guide.

Miami-Dade County Emergency Management

Learn about the Office of Emergency Management, including the phases of emergency management, governmental affairs, activation levels and the comprehensive emergency management plan.

Gear Up & Be Prepared! What to do before, during and after the storm.

Do not wait until a storm threatens to start preparing. Before a hurricane threatens South Florida, have a plan, supplies, secure your home, plan for your pets, and be ready. Please review the before, during and after the storm sections of the Miami-Dade County Hurricane Guide.

Persons with Special Needs

The Florida Department of Health (DOH) in Miami-Dade County supports the health and medical needs of the county's most vulnerable populations during emergencies and disasters. Registration is necessary for the Special Needs and Emergency Evacuation Assistance Program. For more information, visit the DOH Special Needs website.

Storm Surge Evacuation Planning Zone

Storm Surge & Flooding

A storm surge has the ability to cause extensive damage posing the greatest threat during a severe weather event, and it is the main reason evacuation orders for an area are issued. The Miami-Dade Office of Emergency Management (OEM) has identified Storm Surge Planning Zones within the county. To determine if your location is within a storm surge planning zone, visit the Storm Surge Planning Zone page or call Miami-Dade County Answer Center at 3-1-1.

Upon identification of a threat, the OEM or County Mayor will use local media to relay pertinent information, such as evacuations and shelter openings. It is important to monitor the news for this information. Remember that these planning zones deal strictly with storm surge and you will need to determine if your home is safe to remain in during a hurricane.

Wind & High-Rise Buildings

High winds can cause considerable damage from the pressure they put on windows and buildings, as well as damage caused by unsecured items and debris which become projectiles capable of causing death, great bodily injury, or serious damage to property. Winds are stronger as you go higher, which should be of concern to the many hi-rise condominium dwellers living in the City.

Resource Guide