Prepare before the forecast changes
The National Hurricane Center lists the Atlantic hurricane season as June 1 to November 30. Heavy rain and flooding also come from storms that never become hurricanes. Preparation is easiest when no storm is in the forecast.
This checklist focuses on water, since that is where most losses begin. Follow guidance from local officials for evacuation and safety.
Storm season checklist
Do these before a storm.
| Task | Why it helps | When |
|---|---|---|
| Clean gutters and downspouts | Keeps roof water away from walls | Start of season. |
| Know the main water shutoff | Stops a burst line fast | Now. |
| Photograph rooms and valuables | Supports a claim | Now. |
| Store documents in waterproof bags | Protects papers | Before a storm. |
| Move valuables off the floor | Limits contents loss | Before a storm. |
| Check sump or drain paths | Moves water away | Start of season. |
Know your flood risk
Flood zones are address-specific. Look up your address on the FEMA Flood Map Service Center, which the City of Dunedin links to on its floodplain page. The city describes zones A, AE, V, VE and X. Flood insurance is separate from standard homeowner policies, so ask your agent what you have.
Policies often have waiting periods, so do not leave this until a storm is forecast.
Prepare the house
Roof and window leaks cause many storm losses, so check flashing, seals and caulking. Trim branches near the roof. Clear drains around the foundation. Raise appliances and stored items off the floor where practical.
If water gets in, the first hours matter. The storm damage water restoration page explains what to do and the flood damage page covers rising water.
After the storm
Stay away from standing water that may touch electrical wiring. Photograph damage before cleanup. Call your insurer and get water out quickly. Wet drywall, insulation and flooring can grow mold in a day or two, and the EPA guide says to dry wet materials within 24 to 48 hours.
Floodwater is contaminated, so wear protection and expect to remove porous materials.
Documents and photos
Take photos or video of every room, including closets and the garage, and open drawers where contents are stored. Photograph serial numbers on major appliances. Save the files in a cloud folder so they survive a lost phone.
Keep copies of your insurance policy, ID, deed or lease and key contacts in a waterproof bag or a secure cloud folder. Write down your insurer's claim number and phone line so you can call even if your phone dies.
Outside the house
Secure loose items that can become projectiles. Check that downspouts carry water well away from the foundation. Clear storm drains near your property if it is safe and allowed. Check the roof for loose shingles and the attic for signs of earlier leaks.
If you have a sump or low spot where water gathers, plan for it before a storm. Sandbags and barriers help only if they are in place before the water arrives.
If you evacuate
Follow guidance from local officials. Before leaving, shut off electricity at the main breaker if told to do so, unplug electronics, move valuables up and take your documents. Tell your insurer where you are going.
When you return, enter carefully. Look for sagging ceilings, standing water and damaged wiring. If conditions are unsafe, stay out and call for help.
Make a simple plan with your household
Decide who calls whom, where you will go and what you will take. Write the plan down and put a copy where everyone can find it. Include pets, medications and anyone who needs help moving.
Review the plan at the start of each season. Update phone numbers, insurance details and the route you would take. A plan that is a year old may no longer fit your household.
Keep a small kit with flashlights, batteries, a phone charger and basic first aid, so you are not hunting for them in the dark.
After any storm, check on neighbors who may need help, and report downed lines or hazards to local officials. Do not walk or drive through standing water, since it can hide debris, open drains and live electrical hazards. Recovery goes better when people look out for each other.
What this means in Dunedin
After the 2024 storm season the City of Dunedin began assessing damaged structures under FEMA requirements, and its Permits and Inspections page has storm recovery fact sheets. Check with the city before repairs. The FEMA 50 percent rule described on the floodplain page can apply in A and V zones.
For Clearwater homes see the Clearwater page, and the service area page covers nearby towns.
Storm season water damage questions in Dunedin
The National Hurricane Center lists June 1 to November 30.
Standard policies often exclude flood. Ask your agent.
Know where the main valve is. Ask your plumber or insurer if shutting it off before leaving makes sense.
As soon as it is safe. The EPA guide says within 24 to 48 hours.
On the FEMA Flood Map Service Center, linked from the City of Dunedin floodplain page.