🌀 Hurricane Recovery

Stay in your shelter until local authorities officially announce it's safe to return. Listen to local radio, NOAA Weather Radio, or official social media channels. Roads may be flooded or blocked by debris.

Drive carefully — watch for downed power lines, weakened bridges, and washed-out roads. Never drive through standing water. Take photos of any neighborhood damage you see for community records.

Before touching anything, photograph and video all damage inside and outside your home. Document damage to the roof, windows, walls, floors, appliances, and personal items. This is critical for insurance claims.

Pump out flood water as soon as possible. Remove waterlogged carpets, furniture, and drywall. The longer water sits, the more structural damage and mold risk you face. Rent pumps and wet vacuums if needed.

Mold can start growing within 24-48 hours. Open windows and use fans and dehumidifiers to dry everything. Remove drywall up to 2 feet above the water line. Clean hard surfaces with bleach solution. Wear N95 mask during cleanup.

Have a licensed electrician inspect wiring before turning power back on. Don't use gas appliances until checked for leaks. Boil tap water until authorities confirm it's safe. Throw away any food that lost refrigeration for more than 4 hours.

Contact your insurance company immediately. Provide all documentation — photos, videos, receipts, and written descriptions. Keep records of all communication. If you have flood insurance (separate policy), file that claim too. Save all repair receipts.

Register with FEMA at DisasterAssistance.gov or call 1-800-621-3362. Apply for SBA disaster loans for home repairs. Check local and state programs for additional assistance. Contact Red Cross for immediate needs like food and shelter.

Hire licensed, insured contractors. Get multiple bids. Be wary of storm-chasing scammers — never pay full amount upfront. Consider upgrading to hurricane-resistant materials. Check if building codes have changed since your home was built.

Hurricanes are traumatic. It's normal to feel stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed for weeks or months. Talk to family and friends. Seek professional help if you experience persistent anxiety, nightmares, or depression. SAMHSA helpline: 1-800-985-5990.