Hurricane season is less than three weeks away. The 2025 hurricane season will last from June 1 to November 30, and experts predict an above-average season. According to Atmospheric G2 and The Weather Company, 19 storms are expected to form in 2025, with nine of them becoming hurricanes and four storms reaching Category 3 status or higher. Category 3 storms are considered major and can cause significant water and wind damage, especially for buildings along the coast. While these predictions aren’t foolproof, they give us an idea of what to expect this year. While the season isn’t expected to be as active as last year’s, it’ll likely still have more storms than the 30-year average.
Preparing for a Hurricane
One of the biggest mistakes you can make? Waiting until a storm is on the horizon to get ready for the worst. You can save yourself a lot of time, stress, and money by preparing before it’s necessary. If you’re unsure where to start, you can follow the checklist prepared by the American Red Cross.
Before A Storm
- Create an evacuation plan. You may have to leave your property without much notice. Determine where you’ll go and how you’ll get there, allotting extra time for public transportation if needed.
- Prepare to shelter in place. Even if you don’t evacuate, you may still be left without water, gas, and power. Have enough backup supplies so that you’ll be able to stay safe.
- Collect emergency supplies. Stock up on non-perishable foods that are safe to eat without electricity or refrigeration. Buy bottled water and ensure you have a sufficient medication supply.
- Protect your property. Whether a home or business, it’s essential to secure your property by bringing in potential projectiles like outdoor furniture. Trim trees close to the building.
During A Storm
- Monitor alerts. A storm can quickly change paths, and you may receive an evacuation notice unexpectedly. Be ready to go if you are told to leave your property. Keep a list of nearby shelters.
- Take shelter. During a storm, you should stay put in a room away from windows once the wind and water worsen. If there is a flooding risk, move to a room on the highest level of your property.
After A Storm
- Remain where you are. It can be tempting to get back home — or if you stayed, to venture out — but you must wait for an all-clear from local officials, or you risk drowning in floodwaters or electrocution by fallen power lines.
- Stay safe. Carbon monoxide poisoning is a real risk after a hurricane, especially when using a generator or similar device indoors. Follow the instructions on your devices.
- Contact insurance. Call your insurance company as soon as possible after a storm — the sooner your insurer is aware of damage, the sooner the property will be restored.
The 2025 Hurricane Season & Security Readiness
Hurricanes can cause catastrophic damage. To make things even worse, your building may be targeted by criminals after an evacuation. Burglaries and looting are unfortunately common after storms, and they can cause even more destruction than the storm did. You can secure your building by adding plywood to windows and doors in hopes of stopping unauthorized entry. Unfortunately, if someone is determined to breach your property, they’ll likely find a way, leaving you to clean up the literal and figurative mess left behind.
Visible security cameras are an extremely effective way to reduce your chances of becoming a crime victim. Researchers have found that properties with security cameras and alarms are 300% less likely to be targeted by wrongdoers. If a criminal sees proof they’ll be recorded while on your property, they’re less likely to attempt a crime. Additionally, cameras can provide you with a way to remotely keep an eye on your property after a storm and evaluate damage from afar.
Integrated Security Consultants is a full-service security firm headquartered in Tampa, Florida, serving clients locally, statewide, and nationwide. Our team prioritizes Integrity, Solutions, and Customer Service, all while protecting people, property, and profits. Our Florida team has lived through multiple hurricanes, and we know how stressful prep can be. Let us handle the hard part so you can focus on safety. Contact us via our online form or call 813-254-0033 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.