Preparedness can go a long way in saving lives. As we continue to grapple with the COVID-19 virus, we must also prepare for this year’s hurricane season. Keep up with local news. Follow your community’s regulations and guidelines. Stock up on essential supplies, such as water, food, flashlights, and batteries. For your convenience, we have compiled a list of useful storm-related resources below.

Unsure if your home is fully covered for hurricane season? Check out these homeowners’ insurance tips to protect your home, courtesy of our storm claim attorneys at the Law Offices of Michael B. Brehne, P.A., and contact us today to request a free consultation.

For Families & Businesses

State of Florida Resources

Find Florida-specific resources and the latest storm updates by visiting the Florida Division of Emergency Management’s website at www.FloridaDisaster.org. There, you can also create an emergency plan for your family and business.

Federal Government Resources

For guidance on how to protect yourself and your family from the Coronavirus while preparing for hurricane season, consult the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) official guidelines listed below.

For Community Leaders

FEMA

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has published updated guidance for elected officials and community organizers and leaders to help them prepare for hurricane season.

FEMA’s comprehensive guide includes information on a wide range of storm-related topics, including the following. 

  • Expected challenges for disaster operations posed by COVID-19
  • Planning considerations for emergency managers based on current challenges
  • FEMA’s plans to adapt response and recovery operations
  • Guidance, checklists, and resources to support emergency managers’ response and recovery planning

FEMA Grant Program

FEMA’s Regional Catastrophic Preparedness Grant Program will receive $10 million in additional funding this year. The program provides grants to eligible states and localities in the hopes of closing preparedness capability gaps, encourage innovative storm-related solutions, and build upon existing regional preparedness plans, including pandemic-related efforts.

The application period for FEMA’s Grant Program closes on July 15, 2020. Community leaders may submit an application through www.grants.gov. Application status, funding notices, and additional information can also be found on www.Fema.gov/grants.

Social Media Updates

For quick access to storm-related updates, check out the following Twitter accounts. In addition, consult with your local Sheriff’s Office, Police Department, and County Emergency Operations Center (EOC).

  • @SenRickScott – Sen. Rick Scott
  • @FEMA – FEMA
  • @FEMARegion4 – FEMA Region IV, covering Florida
  • @FLSERT – Florida Division of Emergency Management
  • @NHC_Atlantic – National Hurricane Center, covering the Atlantic Basin
  • @NWSNHC – National Weather Service’s National Hurricane Center
  • @FL511_State – FL 511 major traffic reports from the Florida Department of Transportation