Florida Hurricane Central
The most advanced and detailed resource for live storm tracking, real-time safety alerts, and comprehensive preparedness.
Track Live StormsHurricane Season At a Glance
Key information about Florida's hurricane season and the Saffir-Simpson scale.
Season Start
June 1st
Peak Season
Aug - Oct
Season End
Nov 30th
Primary Threat
Storm Surge
Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale
Understanding Hurricane Threats
While the Saffir-Simpson scale classifies hurricanes by wind speed, they pose multiple distinct and serious dangers.
Storm Surge
This is the abnormal rise of water generated by a storm, over and above the predicted astronomical tides. Storm surge is often the greatest threat to life and property from a hurricane, causing catastrophic flooding in coastal areas.
Rainfall Flooding
Hurricanes can produce torrential rains, leading to severe inland flooding. This threat can persist for days, even after the storm has weakened, and can affect areas hundreds of miles from the coast.
Tornadoes
Hurricanes can also produce tornadoes. These are most often found in the right-front quadrant of the storm. They add another layer of destructive power to an already dangerous weather system.
Evacuation Information
Evacuation zones are based on storm surge vulnerability. Knowing your zone and monitoring live traffic are critical for a safe evacuation.
Florida Evacuation Zones
Zones are ordered from A (highest risk, first to evacuate) to F. Follow all orders from local officials.
A
Highest Risk
B
High Risk
C
Moderate Risk
D-F
Lower Risk
Inland Flooding & Shelters
Monitor real-time river levels to assess inland flood risk and find official emergency shelter information.
Live River Monitoring
Heavy rainfall can cause rivers to rise dangerously. The USGS WaterWatch map provides real-time data from river gauges across Florida to help you monitor inland flood threats near you.
View Live River MapFind an Emergency Shelter
Shelter availability is dynamic and changes based on the storm. The Florida Division of Emergency Management provides the official, most current list of open shelters.
View Official Shelter ListFlorida's Most Notable Hurricanes
A look at some of the most powerful and impactful hurricanes in the state's recent history. This factual data is a powerful reminder of the importance of preparation.
Hurricane Andrew
August 1992
- Category 5 at landfall
- 165 mph sustained winds
- Caused immense destruction in South Florida.
Hurricane Irma
September 2017
- Category 4 at landfall
- 130 mph sustained winds
- An enormous storm impacting nearly the entire state.
Hurricane Michael
October 2018
- Category 5 at landfall
- 160 mph sustained winds
- Catastrophic damage in the Florida Panhandle.
Live Tropical Storm Tracker
Real-time visualization of global tropical cyclone activity, powered by Windy.com. Use your mouse to navigate the map.
Live Satellite View
Interactive satellite imagery showing the latest view of the Atlantic basin. You can pan and zoom on the map.
Satellite view powered by Windy.com
Live Florida Power Outage Map
This map provides real-time power outage information across the state, a critical tool during and after a storm. Data provided by PowerOutage.us.
Real-Time Outage Tracking
During a storm, knowing the extent of power outages is crucial for safety and planning. The live map from PowerOutage.us provides the most current data on outages by county and utility provider.
Because this is a secure, external resource, it must be opened in a new tab.
View Live Power Outage MapReal-Time NWS Alerts Map
This map displays active weather watches and warnings for Florida. Click on a shaded area for official details.
Fetching live alert data...
Essential Preparedness & Safety
Follow these expert-recommended steps to ensure you and your family are safe during a hurricane.
Key Safety Actions
Emergency Supply Kit Checklist
Pet Preparedness Plan
- Prepare a pet go-bag with food, water, meds, and records.
- Identify pet-friendly shelters or hotels in advance.
- Ensure pets have ID tags and are microchipped.
- Never leave pets behind during an evacuation.
After The Storm Safety
- Wait for the "all clear" from officials before returning.
- Avoid flooded areas and downed power lines.
- Use generators safely and away from windows.
- Document property damage with photos for insurance.
County Emergency Management Directory
Official information is delivered at the county level. Find your local Emergency Management Agency (EMA) for the most specific alerts and instructions.
Valuable Resources & Local Info
Official links for emergency information and local contacts for major Florida cities.