Hurricanes & Storms

In the event of a hurricane emergency, residents of Jacksonville Beach will be notified in advance of any plans for evacuation through the media. CodeRED Emergency Notification system will provide special notification alerts and announcements such as debris collection, road closures, power outages, etc.

Alert Notifications

Tropical Storm Watch

An announcement that tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are possible within the specified coastal area within 48 hours.

Tropical Storm Warning

An announcement that tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are expected somewhere within the specified coastal area within 36 hours.

Hurricane Watch

An announcement that hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or higher) are possible within the specified coastal area. Because hurricane preparedness activities become difficult once winds reach tropical storm force, the hurricane watch is issued 48 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical storm force winds.

Hurricane Warning

An announcement that hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or higher) are expected within the specified coastal area. Because hurricane preparedness activities become difficult once winds reach tropical storm force, the hurricane warning is issued 36 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical force winds.

Hurricane Tips

  • Start running your ice makers now and bagging the ice in freezer bags. Fill as much space in between your freezer items as you can.
  • Freeze regular tap water for pets, cleaning, or drinking in Tupperware-type containers. Remember to leave a small bit of space between the top of the water and the lids so the ice expands but doesn't crack the container.
  • Start using up your perishables to make more room for ice in the freezer.
  • Fill up (gas) all vehicles and check tires and oil.
  • Cash from ATM, at least enough to get you through tolls and gas out of town. Call your bank if you plan on leaving the state so they don't freeze your card for out-of-area "suspicious" transactions.
  • All important docs screenshot and send to your email or mail to family out of state. Take originals in sealed bags or plastic bins.
  • Pet and livestock food and supplies. Vet records in case you need to shelter then at a storm-safe facility.
  • Evacuation plans and share with family members so they know where you're headed.
  • Consider putting heirlooms and photos in plastic bins in a high place, second floor, or safe room if you don't plan on taking them with you.
  • Secure all firearms and ammunition properly.
  • Place old rags and beach towels on your windowsills and at bottom of doors. Even with the best windows and shutters, water seeping from the wind pressure happens. A few damp towels is better than soaked drywall or floors!
  • Shutter windows and doors and bring everything outside into your garage or house now. Do not wait until the day before. Better to get done early and relax than wait until its too late (essential storm personnel, hospital employee or first responder).
  • If you don't already have your hurricane supplies, you might want to get them now. Shelves are already empty in most places.
  • Charge all digital devices.
  • Place a cup of water in freezer. When frozen place a coin on top and put in freezer. If power goes out you will know because the coin will float to bottom.
  • Be sure you have all necessary medications for at least a week.
  • Store important documents in an empty dishwasher and lock. Water will not get in it.