The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season officially kicks off in just a month, and Gulf Coast communities are still recovering from the damage caused by last year’s back-to-back storms.

With another active season on the horizon, now is the time to prepare. Here’s what you need to know:

Forecasts Point to Another Active Hurricane Season

Researchers at Colorado State University are predicting an above-average hurricane season, driven in part by record-warm ocean temperatures.

Their outlook includes:

• 17 named storms
  
• 9 hurricanes
  
• 4 major hurricanes (Category 3 or stronger)

There’s also an elevated risk that one or more major hurricanes will make landfall in the continental U.S. and the Caribbean.

2025 Hurricane Name List

We don’t know when the first storm will form, but we do know what it will be called: Andrea.
Here’s the full list of storm names for 2025:

Andrea, Barry, Chantal, Dexter, Erin, Fernand, Gabrielle, Humberto, Imelda, Jerry, Karen, Lorenzo, Melissa, Nestor, Olga, Pablo, Rebekah, Sebastien, Tanya, Van, Wendy

Get Prepared: Steps to Take Before the Storm

Preparing in advance can help reduce panic when a hurricane is approaching. Here are some key actions to take now:

Make an Evacuation Plan

Storm surge and strong winds can pose life-threatening risks, especially near the coast.
Plan where you would go if told to evacuate — even a short drive inland can make a difference. Know your evacuation zone and stay informed through local alerts.

Don’t forget to include a plan for your pets. Florida lawmakers are considering legislation that would ban leaving pets behind during evacuations.

Build a Disaster Kit

Avoid the stress of last-minute shopping by assembling supplies early.
Stock up on:

• Water (1 gallon per person per day for at least 3 days)
  
• Non-perishable food
  
• Flashlights, batteries, and a weather radio
  
• First aid supplies
  
• Prescription medications
  
• Cash and copies of important documents
  
• Cell phone chargers and backup batteries
  

The Florida Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday runs June 1–14 and again from August 24–September 6, making it a good time to stock up and save money. Learn more here.

Prepare Your Home

• Review your insurance coverage and update it if needed
  
• Document your belongings with photos and serial numbers
  
• Trim trees and secure outdoor items that could become projectiles
  
• Inspect your home for vulnerable areas and seal any exterior openings
  
• Keep hurricane shutters, plywood, and sandbags ready
  

Tampa residents can pre-register for sandbag pickup to avoid delays. Sign up here.

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Stay Calm, Stay Ready

While the season officially runs June 1 through November 30, storms can form outside these dates.

Having a plan and supplies in place now will help you stay calm when a storm threatens. Preparation is the best way to protect your family, your home, and your peace of mind.

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