Hurricane Evacuation Checklist 2026 — What to Pack and When to Leave

📋 Before Hurricane Season — Do This Now

These items take time. Don't wait until a storm is named.

PrepKnow your evacuation zone — get the official zone letter from your county
PrepMap at least two evacuation routes from your home
PrepIdentify shelter locations along each route
PrepIf you have a pet, confirm pet-friendly shelters or hotels in advance
PrepRegister medically-dependent family members with your county special needs registry
PrepKeep vehicle gas tank above half-full during hurricane season (June–November)
PrepShare your evacuation plan with out-of-area family contact

📄 Critical Documents

Store copies in a waterproof bag or sealed plastic container inside your go-bag.

DocsPhoto ID / driver's license
DocsPassports
DocsHome, flood, and auto insurance policies with agent contacts
DocsProof of address (utility bill or lease)
DocsMedical records and vaccination history
DocsPrescription information (names, dosages, pharmacy contact)
DocsEmergency contact list — printed, not just on your phone
DocsPhotos of your home and valuables (for insurance claims)

🐾 Pets

Most emergency shelters do not accept pets. Plan this in advance.

PetsIdentify pet-friendly shelters or hotels on your evacuation route
PetsCarrier or crate large enough for safe transport
PetsLeash, collar, and current ID tags
PetsPet food and water — 7-day supply
PetsVet records and vaccination paperwork
PetsPet medications with instructions
PetsPhoto of you with your pet (for identification if separated)

🏠 Before You Leave Your Home

HomeBoard up windows or install storm shutters
HomeMove outdoor furniture, grills, and décor inside
HomeFill bathtubs with water (backup for sanitation)
HomeTurn off propane tanks
HomeUnplug major appliances
HomeShut off utilities if instructed by local officials
HomeLock all doors and windows
HomeLeave a note on your door with your destination and contact (for rescue workers)

Sources: FEMA, ready.gov, NOAA hurricane preparedness guidance. Progress saves automatically in your browser.

Critical Guidance

When Should You Leave?

Zone A — Leave Immediately

Zone A is the highest-risk area (coastal, low-lying, storm surge zones). Leave at the first watch or warning. Don't wait for a mandatory order.

Zone B & C — Leave Early

When Zone A is ordered to evacuate, Zone B and C residents should be packing. By the time your zone is ordered to leave, traffic will be heavy.

General Rule

If you are told to evacuate, leave. No possession is worth your life. Shelter-in-place is an option only if you are not in a storm surge zone and your structure is sound.

Important: Evacuation zones vary by county. Your zone is determined by storm surge risk, not flood insurance maps or elevation. Always confirm your zone with your local emergency management office.

Find Your Zone

State Evacuation Resources

Florida Zone Finder →

floridadisaster.org

Louisiana EM →

gohsep.la.gov

Texas EM →

tdem.texas.gov

North Carolina EM →

ncdps.gov

South Carolina EM →

scemd.org

Georgia GEMA →

gema.georgia.gov

FAQ

Evacuation FAQ

When should I evacuate for a hurricane?

Leave when your evacuation zone is ordered to evacuate. Don't wait for a mandatory order — voluntary and precautionary orders mean the risk is real. Leaving early avoids dangerous traffic and shelter shortages.

What should I pack in a hurricane evacuation bag?

Water, food (3-day supply), all medications, first aid kit, flashlight, weather radio, phone charger, cash, important documents, extra clothes, and pet supplies. Keep it light enough to carry quickly.

Where do I find my hurricane evacuation zone?

Contact your county emergency management office or check your state's emergency management website. Never assume your zone — look it up officially. Zones are based on storm surge risk, not flood maps or elevation.

Can I take my pets to an emergency shelter?

Most emergency shelters do not accept pets other than service animals. Plan in advance: find pet-friendly shelters, pet-friendly hotels along your route, or arrange to stay with family or friends outside the impact zone.

What if I can't evacuate due to medical needs?

Register with your county's special needs shelter registry before the season starts — not when a storm is approaching. Many counties maintain shelters for people with medical needs. Contact your county emergency management office now.

Disclaimer: This checklist is for general preparedness guidance only. Always follow instructions from your local emergency management officials. In an emergency, call 911. Evacuation zones are determined by your local county — always verify with official sources.

Hurricane Evacuation Checklist