Living on the Treasure Coast of Florida means beautiful beaches, relaxed coastal living... and unfortunately, hurricanes. Hurricane season officially begins June 1st and goes through November 30th. Being prepared is critical when a storm is approaching. To help keep your family safe, we've put together this guide that includes local evacuation zones, hurricane preparation tips, and links to resources. Review this guide at the beginning of hurricane season and begin preparing NOW! Then, bookmark it to refer back to in case a storm is heading towards Martin County.
Skip to: Hurricane Categories | Evacuation Zones and Routes | Shelters | School Closures | Local Resources | Hurricane Preparation Tips for Families
Hurricanes are classified into five categories based on their sustained wind speeds. Here is an overview of the hurricane rating system.
- Tropical Depression: up to 39 mph winds
- Tropical Storm: 39 - 73 mph winds
- Category 1: 74-95 mph winds
- Category 2: 86-110 mph winds
- Category 3: 111-129 mph winds*
- Category 4:130-156 mph winds*
- Category 5: 157 mph or higher winds*
*Categories 3, 4, and 5 are identified as major hurricanes.
Evacuation Zones and Routes
You should always listen to law enforcement agencies and abide by mandatory evacuations. Click the link below to find your evacuation zone. Please keep in mind that roads can become congested during emergencies, so leaving early is a good idea.
- Martin County Storm Surge Evacuation Zones
- Get the 511 App to Check Traffic or CALL 511
- Find Out Which Gas Stations Have Gas with GasBuddy® App
Shelters
When a hurricane is approaching, local shelters will open for those who need a safe place to stay. Please keep in mind that shelters do not open at the same time, and some locations may not open at all.
- Martin County Shelter Locations and Openings
- Pet-friendly shelter: first come, first served and pre-registration is required - click here.
- Special needs shelter: enroll in the special needs registry prior to an emergency. The county will arrange for transportation and shelter for those who are enrolled. You may also enroll by calling 772-287-1652. Click here to learn more.
School Closures
Schools typically close even for tropical storms. School buses don't operate if there are sustained winds above 35 mph, and the school district prioritizes safety when making decisions about school closures. Typically, the Martin County Schools will send out an automated phone call and update their website and social media to alert parents of school closures and reopenings. Click the link below to check the Martin County School District's website.
Local Resources
- Martin County Road to Readiness Guide
- Martin County Hurricane Information Homepage
- Sign up for AlertMartin Emergency Alerts
Hurricane Preparation Tips for Families
- Create a Family Emergency Plan
- Use this easy, fillable form to create a plan.
- Know your evacuation zone and routes and shelter locations.
- Don't forget about your pet! Have a plan for your pet and include their necessary supplies in your emergency kit.
- Build an Emergency Kit
- Visit ready.gov/kit for lists of recommended supplies.
- Have a go-kit and stay-at-home supplies.
- Prepare Your Home
- Decide what preparations you will make to your home, such as installing shutters, bringing in outdoor furniture, taking photos for insurance purposes, trimming trees, preparing your pool, and more.
- See FPL's tips and information on power restoration after a storm
- Stay Informed
- Sign up for local emergency alerts and bookmark local news and weather sites
- Check the National Hurricane Center
- Check the National Weather Service
- Check Florida Disaster
- Download WhatsApp to communicate without cell service
- Download the FEMA app
- Call the Florida Emergency Information Line: (800) 342-2557
While hurricanes are an unfortunate reality of living on Florida's Treasure Coast, we can be prepared to help ensure our families' safety and minimize the risks associated with a storm. Remember: prepare in advance, remain informed by official sources, and stay calm.
Did you find this guide helpful? Be sure to sign up for our free weekly e-newsletters to stay up-to-date on local events, news, and more!
