Hurricane Resource Center

Welcome to the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office Hurricane Resource Center, your go-to destination for proactive storm preparation and invaluable resources during times of impending hurricanes. We believe in empowering our residents to be well-prepared long before a storm looms on the horizon. Explore our comprehensive guide to create your family emergency plan, assemble your disaster supply kit, and stay informed with the latest updates and alerts. In times of crisis, trust us to be your reliable source for safety tips, evacuation routes, and community support. Together, let's ensure the resilience and safety of our community before, during, and after the storm.

Tips for Sheltering in Place During Hurricanes

Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office offers tips for effectively sheltering in place.

Know Your Zone, Hillsborough County

Identify your evacuation zone and find critical details about designated shelters.

HCFL Alerts

Secure Your Valuables

Discover steps you can take to secure your property.

Trusted Sources

HCSO emphasizes the significance of listening to authorities before, during, and after a storm.

Importance of Following Evacuation Notices

Know your evacuation zones to ensure the safety of you and your loved ones.

Contacting Emergency Services During/After A Hurricane

Here's a breakdown of who to contact depending on the situation.

Quick Links

Quick links - website resources

The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale

This scale estimates potential property damage. Hurricanes reaching Category 3 and higher are considered major hurricanes because of their potential for significant loss of life and damage. Category 1 and 2 storms are still dangerous, however, and also require preventative measures.

Category 1

(74-95 mph winds)

Dangerous winds will produce some damage. The damage is primarily contained to shrubbery, trees, foliage and unanchored homes; damage to roof, shingles, vinyl siding and gutters could result.

Category 2

(96-110 mph winds)

Extremely dangerous winds will cause extensive damage. Considerable damage to shrubbery and tree foliage; some trees blown down. Major damage to exposed mobile homes. Some damage to roofing materials of buildings; some window damage. No major damage to buildings.

Category 3

(111-129 mph winds)

Devastating damage will occur. Large trees blown down. Major damage to and removal of roof; some window and door damage. Some structural damage to small buildings. Mobile homes destroyed. Serious flooding at coast and many structures near coast destroyed; larger structures near coast damaged by battering waves and loose debris.

Category 4

(130-156 mph winds)

Catastrophic damage will occur. Severe damage to roofing materials, windows, doors and exterior walls. Complete failures of roofs on many small residences. Complete destruction of mobile homes. Major damage to lower floors of structures near shore due to flooding and battering by waves and debris. Most of the area will be uninhabitable for weeks or months.

Category 5

(157+ mph winds)

Catastrophic damage will occur. A high percentage of framed homes will be destroyed. Complete failure of roofs on many residences and industrial buildings. Extensive shattering of glass in windows and doors. Small buildings overturned or blown away. Complete destruction of mobile homes. Major damage to lover floors of all structures less that 15 feet above sea level within 500 yards of shore.

Hurricane Resource Center