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The 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season is here, and the forecast suggests a busy season. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is forecasting an above-normal hurricane season comprised of 13 to 19 total named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher), 6-10 hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including 3-5 major hurricanes (category 3, 4 or 5; with winds of 111 mph or higher).
It’s more important than ever to have strong personal preparedness plans as we enter hurricane season, especially given evolving changes in how FEMA operates.
Know Your Risk: Wind and Water
The first step of preparing for hurricanes is to know your risk.
- Coastal areas are most at risk for extreme winds, power outages and flooding from rain and storm surge.
- Inland areas aren’t necessarily safe - you could experience wind, thunderstorms, flooding, and power outages.
- Identify your home’s structural risks. Mobile homes and homes with basements can be especially vulnerable to hurricane hazards.
- You may live in a state with designated evacuation zones. Visit your state and county emergency management websites to learn about their plans.
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The “cone of uncertainty” is not the impact zone – it is the probable track of the center of a storm. Do not focus on the storm’s exact track, size, or category. Hurricanes are immense systems, and can quickly change in size, intensity, speed, and direction. Additionally, areas far from the storm’s center can experience flooding, storm surge, and high winds.
Storms Are Becoming More Intense and Less Predictable
Recent years have taught us that extreme weather conditions are driving more powerful, fast-developing hurricanes, sometimes with less warning time, leaving evacuation strategies, which are time-sensitive, even more strained. We're seeing:
- Rapid intensification near landfall (e.g., Hurricanes Harvey, Ian, Ida)
- Storms moving unpredictably or stalling—causing massive flooding beyond the coastal areas
- Record-setting wind, rain, and storm surge
This means last-minute preparation is often too late. Personal readiness is now a necessity.
Preparedness Saves Lives
History shows that people with strong personal plans are more likely to:
- Evacuate safely
- Protect critical documents and possessions
- Recover emotionally and financially
- Help others in their community
Being ready means being resilient, especially when systems are stretched thin.
Infrastructure is Aging – And Help Might Not Reach You Immediately
Many communities, especially coastal and rural ones, have aging infrastructure that may not withstand stronger storms and the cascading effects of repeat storm impacts. Roads, utilities, and communication systems may be interrupted or fail, leaving people:
- Isolated for days or weeks
- Without power, water, or emergency services
- Needing to self-sustain until outside help arrives
A strong preparedness plan ensures you’re not relying solely on government or utility responses.
FEMA has Experienced Substantial Downsizing
FEMA faces staffing shortages due to eliminations and budget constraints due to multiple overlapping disasters in recent years—wildfires, floods, tornadoes, and global crises. This has the potential to mean:
- Slower response times
- Fewer immediate resources available to individuals
- More emphasis on state and local governments and personal responsibility
The shift placing a greater response burden on states and locals will be challenging on individuals and communities. You should plan accordingly.
Key Actions You Should Take Now:
- Create or update an emergency kit
- Know your evacuation route, how to read a map, and flooding tendencies along the way
- Have a communication plan with loved ones
- Check your insurance coverage
- Sign up for local alerts
In short, hurricane preparedness is no longer optional. With reports suggesting FEMA is shifting its role and storms growing more dangerous, the time to act is before a crisis occurs. Your safety and your community’s resilience starts with what you do today.
Creating a preparedness kit (often referred to as a go-bag) is one of the most crucial aspects of emergency planning. Whether you need to evacuate or shelter in place, having a go-bag packed and ready ensures you and your family can leave quickly without scrambling for essentials. Click here for tips for packing an effective go-bag, organized by essential categories.
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