How to prep for hurricane season 2026
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It's National Hurricane Preparedness Week — which unfortunately means this year's storm season is not far behind.
Why it matters: Scouting for supplies now can save you headaches later.
Flashback: For a century, Tampa Bay had avoided a direct hit from a major hurricane — luck that, experts said, left the region and its residents unprepared and therefore vulnerable.
- Then came the 2024 season, a massive wake-up call. Millions lost power, and in St. Petersburg, some residents couldn't use the bathroom.
- Think of those days, and remember what you once wished for: a flashlight, maybe, or a battery-powered fan. Then, buy it.
The big picture: The Florida Division of Emergency Management created a disaster supplies kit checklist that includes food and water, first aid supplies, insurance documents, flashlights, batteries and medicine.
- You don't have to wait for a sales tax holiday this year — the Legislature permanently exempted several supplies, including batteries, portable generators, tarps, gas cans and smoke detectors.
- Many of these you can find at your local Walmart. You can use the store's app to see the most cost-effective options and where to find them.
💠Yacob's thought bubble: I lost power after Hurricane Milton tore through the state, and among the things I wished I had then are: A rechargeable headlamp, a portable power station and a camping fan.
📬 What's on your hurricane wish list? Let us know at [email protected]!