Weeks or months before hurricane season
- Complete routine wall and drainage inspection
- Resolve active voids or movement with qualified help
- Update whole-wall photographs and property records
- Review dock, lift and vessel plans
- Know evacuation zone, flood information and official alert sources
When a storm threatens
- Follow local emergency management and NHC information
- Secure or remove loose waterfront items if safe
- Do not block drainage paths with stored material
- Move vehicles and heavy objects away from suspect edges
- Do not perform rushed excavation or structural alterations
Leave when told
A seawall is not a reason to ignore evacuation guidance.
Storm surge can overtop, flank or exceed coastal structures. Emergency decisions belong to official authorities and the household's safety plan.
After the storm
Wait for safe access, photograph before cleanup and use the staged post-storm checklist. Report immediate hazards to the appropriate authority.
Evidence
Primary sources
These links support the regulatory, historical or technical context on this page. Open the live official page before acting on time-sensitive information.
- National Hurricane CenterNOAA National Hurricane Center · Official tropical outlooks, watches, warnings and advisories.
- Flood Map Service CenterFederal Emergency Management Agency · Official source for flood maps and flood hazard products.
- Coastal Construction ManualFederal Emergency Management Agency · Technical guidance on coastal hazards, erosion, scour and resilient construction.
Professional boundary
This page provides general homeowner education. It does not determine structural safety, prescribe a repair or replace agency and professional review for a specific property.