Hurricane Preparedness in Florida: Your 2025 Guide (Orlando, Tampa, Sarasota & More)
Hurricane season is here. If you live in Florida, especially Orlando, Tampa, Sarasota, or the surrounding areas, preparing for hurricanes isn’t just wise, it’s essential. Every year, hurricanes and tropical storms cause billions in property damage. Knowing how to prepare, what to expect, and how to recover can make all the difference.
Below, you’ll find a comprehensive guide to hurricane preparedness, along with essential information on how CARE Public Adjusters can help you maximize your insurance claim after the storm.
Why Hurricane Preparedness Matters in Florida
Florida is no stranger to severe weather. The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season is predicted to be especially active, with 13–19 named storms and 3–5 major hurricanes expected between June and November. Orlando, Tampa, and Sarasota may not be on the immediate coast, but they’re just as vulnerable to wind, flooding, and storm surge.
Don’t wait until a hurricane is in the forecast—prepare now!
Step 1: Understand Your Local Risks
- Orlando: Inland flooding is a major concern due to overflowing lakes and rivers. Hurricane Ian in 2022 caused $148 million in damages, much of it from water, not wind.
- Tampa Bay: Even though Tampa hasn’t seen a direct hit since 1921, the risk is high. Recent storms have caused power outages and severe flooding.
- Sarasota: This area faces both wind and water damage, as seen in recent hurricanes that damaged thousands of homes.
Step 2: Prepare Your Home and Family
Make a Home Inventory
- Take photos or videos of your property and valuables.
- Keep records of purchases and receipts.
- Store important documents (including insurance) in waterproof containers.
Secure Your Property
- Roof: Fix damaged shingles, install hurricane straps or clips.
- Windows/Doors: Use hurricane shutters or board with plywood. Reinforce garage doors.
- Yard: Trim trees and shrubs, bring in outdoor furniture, and clear gutters and drains.
Build an Emergency Kit
Prepare enough supplies for at least 7 days:
- 1 gallon of water per person per day
- Non-perishable food
- Flashlights, batteries, radio (battery-powered)
- Prescription meds, first aid kit
- Copies of IDs and insurance policies (digital and physical)
- Cash (ATMs may be down)
- Pet supplies (food, carrier, meds)
Make an Evacuation & Communication Plan
- Know your evacuation zone and routes.
- Plan for your pets—find shelters or hotels that accept them.
- Designate a meeting spot for your family and share emergency contacts.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to check your insurance policy before a storm threatens. Know what is covered and what isn’t.
Step 3: What To Do When a Hurricane is Approaching
- Monitor trusted sources (NOAA, National Weather Service, local authorities) for updates.
- Charge all devices, backup important files, and unplug electronics you don’t need.
- Bring emergency supplies, pets, and family into a secure part of the home.
- Follow evacuation orders immediately if given.
Step 4: After the Storm—Document, File, Recover
- Ensure Safety First: Watch for hazards like downed power lines, gas leaks, and unstable structures.
- Document the Damage: Take extensive photos and videos of everything—roof, walls, furniture, appliances, and anything else affected.
- Contact Your Insurance Company: Report the claim as soon as possible and keep a detailed record of every conversation.
- Make Temporary Repairs: Board up windows, cover damaged roofs with tarps, and save all receipts.
Step 5: Maximize Your Insurance Claim with CARE Public Adjusters
Dealing with insurance after a hurricane can be stressful and confusing. Many homeowners find their claims underpaid, delayed, or unfairly denied. That’s where CARE Public Adjusters comes in.
Who Is CARE Public Adjusters?
- Florida’s trusted experts in property damage claims for over 20 years.
- Serving Orlando, Tampa, Sarasota, and all of Florida.
- Specialize in hurricane, wind, flood, roof, and mold claims.
How Can CARE Public Adjusters Help You?
- Free Damage Inspection: No obligation! Get a professional assessment before you call your insurer.
- Claim Filing & Negotiation: CARE handles all paperwork, negotiations, and communication with your insurance company—so you don’t have to.
- Maximize Your Settlement: CARE’s adjusters work for you, not the insurance company. Their goal is to get you the maximum payout for your repairs and recovery.
- Support From Start to Finish: They work with engineers, attorneys, and contractors to build the strongest claim possible.
Don’t Leave Your Insurance Settlement to Chance
Insurance companies have teams of adjusters on their side. Shouldn’t you have a professional on yours? CARE Public Adjusters ensures your claim is fully documented, expertly presented, and aggressively negotiated—so you get every dollar you deserve.
Ready to Protect Your Home and Your Family?
- Prepare NOW for hurricane season.
- Document your home and belongings.
- After a storm, contact CARE Public Adjusters for a FREE inspection and claims assistance.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Your best defense is preparation—and having the right team in your corner when you need it most.
Contact CARE Public Adjusters today for a FREE, no-obligation claim evaluation!
Stay safe this hurricane season—and remember, you’re not alone in the recovery.
This guide is brought to you by CARE Public Adjusters, Florida’s hurricane insurance claim experts.
