Hardware stores across the state of Florida are experiencing a surge in early hurricane prep as the 2025 season gets underway.

Brian Culp, who owns a Pinellas County Ace Hardware, says the rush began as soon as June 1 hit. “People were clearing shelves right out of the gate,” he told WTVT.

Sales of storm-related supplies—especially sealant caulk—have skyrocketed, in some cases doubling or even quadrupling compared to past years.

“Last year we sold about 2,000 tubes of caulk,” said Culp. “This year, we’re on pace for 4,000.”

Other top sellers include generators, hydraulic cement, and backwater valves. Many shoppers are stocking up in bulk, even before any named storms appear in the Gulf.

Retailers say the early demand is a strong signal that residents are taking preparedness seriously after last year’s intense hurricane activity—planning ahead instead of scrambling at the last minute.

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(Image credit: WPEC)

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