JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Potential Tropical Cyclone Nine has formed in the Caribbean, and the disturbance is forecast to strengthen over the next few days into Hurricane Helene.
RELATED | Timeline: When our area could feel the effects of a hurricane coming from Gulf later this week | Gov. DeSantis declares State of Emergency in 4 Northeast Florida counties ahead of approaching tropical cyclone
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North Florida is in the cone of uncertainty and a State of Emergency has been declared for 41 counties, so now it’s time to prepare.
At News4JAX, you will find a lot of valuable information to help you plan and prepare in our Hurricane section.
But while you are here, here are five steps to start:
Step 1: Should I stay or should I go? And where should I go? Know your evacuation zone. Have a plan. If you need to evacuate, plan where you will go, whether leaving the area or staying with friends, family, or a shelter. Local inland hotels are the best but call early.
Step 2: Communicate with a designated person outside of the Hurricane Zone. Make sure someone designates a person away from the hurricane area (well inland) with whom you can all communicate in case everyone gets separated.
Step 3: Insurance plans. For Homeowners or renters, it is critical to your financial stability that all your homeowners and flood insurance is updated and in effect at the beginning of hurricane season.
Step 4: Photograph and document important items. Take pictures of your expensive or important items before and after a storm.
Step 5: Planning on staying at the shelter? There is safety in numbers but very limited space and supplies. Make sure you have enough food and water for you and your family. Check that the shelters take pets. You might have to place pets in a pet shelter.
Items you will need before a storm:
- One gallon of water a day per family member will ensure that you have enough water for your family and pets for two weeks.
- Non-perishable food items. Buy what you need for two weeks.
- Pet Food
- Refilling prescriptions in advance, such as your daily meds and oxygen supply. You want to make sure you have a two-week supply.
- Have a list of all your doctors, physicians, pharmacists, and hospitals phone numbers in case your phone dies, and you need to reach someone.
- Gas up your vehicles and fill gas cans for your generator.
- Check with your insurance is updated to date and coverage details.
- Prep your home. Board up if needed and secure all loose items and flying debris.
- Check with your neighbors and elderly if they need help or are staying behind.
- Carry all your essential documents, such as your driver’s license, mail, mortgage, and social security card, and store them in a waterproof container.
- First-aid kit
- Phone chargers
- Clothing
Be prepared to take care of yourself or your family for one week or longer.
View the 2024 Hurricane & Flood Survival Guide below for more information. You can download and print.
Always listen to your local officials for the most up-to-date information, and stay tuned with the News4JAX Weather App.