Hurricane Season in Florida: How Pinellas County Homeowners Can Prepare (2025 Guide)
If you own a home in Florida—especially in coastal areas like Pinellas County, St. Pete Beach, or Pass-a-Grille—you already know that hurricane season is part of life here. Running from June 1 through November 30, the Atlantic hurricane season brings the potential for tropical storms and hurricanes that can affect property, insurance costs, and even your ability to sell or buy a home.
Whether you're a first-time homeowner or a long-time local, here’s a simple guide to help you prepare your Florida home for hurricane season.
🌀 Why Hurricane Prep Matters in Pinellas County
Florida’s Gulf Coast has seen more frequent and stronger storms in recent years. While not every hurricane hits land, even tropical systems can bring:
Flooding
Roof and window damage
Extended power outages
Disruption to closings, insurance policies, and home values
Taking proactive steps helps protect your home, your finances, and your peace of mind.
✅ Hurricane Season Checklist for Florida Homeowners
1. Review Your Insurance Coverage
Make sure you have an active homeowners policy with windstorm coverage
If you’re in a designated flood zone, you’ll need separate flood insurance
Know your deductibles, especially for hurricane-related claims
Take photos or videos of your property and possessions in case you need to file a claim
💡 Tip: Ask your insurance agent if you’re covered for temporary relocation or emergency repairs.
2. Secure Your Roof, Windows, and Doors
Install or inspect hurricane shutters or impact-rated windows
Reinforce garage doors if needed (they're a weak spot during storms)
Get your roof inspected annually—missing shingles or soft spots can lead to major leaks
Trim trees and remove loose branches around your property
3. Check Your Drainage and Gutters
Flooding in Florida often happens because water can’t drain properly.
Clean gutters and downspouts
Check your yard for areas where water pools
If you have a sump pump or French drain system, test it before the first storm
4. Stock Emergency Supplies
Even if your home doesn’t flood, you could lose power for several days.
Have on hand:
Bottled water (1 gallon per person per day for 3+ days)
Non-perishable food
Flashlights, batteries, battery banks
First aid kit and medications
Manual can opener
Pet supplies
Important documents in a waterproof bag
5. Know Your Evacuation Zone
Pinellas County offers interactive evacuation maps online. Know your zone before a storm is announced, and have a plan for where to go if you need to leave, especially if you live in low-lying areas like:
Pass-a-Grille
Coastal St. Pete Beach
Tierra Verde
Shore Acres
📍 Find your evacuation zone here
6. Prep Your Home If a Storm Is Coming
If a hurricane is headed toward the area:
Bring in patio furniture, plants, and outdoor decor
Park vehicles away from trees and low-lying areas
Fill your gas tank and charge your devices
Turn your fridge and freezer to the coldest setting
Withdraw some cash in case of power outages
🏡 Bonus Tip: Hurricane Season and Real Estate
If you're buying or selling during hurricane season:
Be aware that insurance underwriters may pause issuing new policies when a named storm enters the Gulf
Closings can be delayed if a storm damages the property or restricts inspections
Sellers: Make sure your home is storm-ready—it shows buyers you’ve taken care of the property
Buyers: Ask about flood zone status, elevation certificates, and roof age before making an offer
🧭 Bottom Line: Stay Ready, Stay Safe
Hurricane season is a reality in Florida, but being prepared takes the fear out of the forecast. With a plan in place and your home storm-ready, you can protect your investment—and your family—before, during, and after the storm.
Have questions about hurricane insurance, flood zones, or how storms impact real estate in Pinellas County?
I help buyers, sellers, and investors across St. Pete Beach, Tampa Bay, and beyond navigate real estate with confidence—rain or shine.
