In-depth Hurricane Information

Baynews9.com is your source for exclusive tropical weather updates, evacuation routes and shelters, storm preparation checklists and much more.

Access:

Tropical Activity

Keep a close eye on the areas where hurricanes form with our satellite views.

Tampa Bay Hurricane Guide

Bay News 9 and The St. Petersburg Times are teaming up to provide you with a comprehensive hurricane guide and hurricane tracking map.

You can pick up your free copy of the tracking map at Publix stores in Citrus, Hernando, Hillsborough, Manatee, Pasco and Pinellas counties.

The tracking map and guides are available at select St. Petersburg Times office locations.

You can also pick up the guide and tracking maps at all Bright House Networks Demonstration Centers.

Available while supplies last

Evacuation Maps

Select your county to find out your evacuation level. (Polk County has no evacuation zones.)

Hurricane Education

Get answers to your hurricane questions from the Bay News 9 Weather Experts.

Hurricane Resources

This information will help you decide what to do and where to go when a major storm approaches your county.

You can see what hurricane shelters are closest to you and a ch ecklist of items you'll need to have handy if a hurricane hits.

The Red Cross helps you prepare
Evacuation and planning tips for the elderly and infirmed
Information on what to do with your pets before a storm

(Having trouble viewing the link above? Take a few seconds to download Adobe Reader)

Shelter is Golden may help you find a place to stay or connect you to someone who needs a place to stay during a hurricane.

What To Do After a Hurricane

The moments after a hurricane can be uncertain if not frantic. But there are things you can do to keep you and your family as safe as possible.

Use a radio or weather radio to get information.
Use flashlights and avoid candles.
If you have evacuated, only return when notified that it is safe to do so.
Avoid floodwaters, especially when driving.
Watch for downed power lines
Report safety hazards to authorities if possible.
Beware of spoiled and contaminated food and water.

Insurance Claims

Although the first concern should be safety, it is important to be aware of the need to act promptly when filing claims for damages inflicted to your property by a hurricane.

Have your policy number available.
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible.
Make a list of damages, photos help.
Fill out claim forms from insurance company and return them promptly.
Be sure you understand the claim process, if you are unfamiliar ask for a full explanation.
Contact your insurance company before an emergency to see if you are prepared if a disaster should occur.

More tips for what to do after a hurricane