The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. The busiest stretch is from mid-August to mid-October, with the statistical peak around September 10. The eastern Pacific season starts earlier, on May 15, and also ends November 30.
Storms can form outside those dates, but most damaging US landfalls happen between August and October.
Which counties face the most hurricane risk?
In FEMA’s National Risk Index, the counties with the highest expected yearly hurricane losses are Harris County, Texas, followed by Miami-Dade, Lee, Palm Beach and Brevard counties in Florida.
Hurricane risk is not only a coastal problem. Wind and heavy rain reach far inland. Hurricane Helene in 2024 caused catastrophic flooding in the mountains of western North Carolina, hundreds of miles from where it came ashore.
Each county page on this site shows its hurricane rating, expected losses and every hurricane declaration that included it.
What causes the most damage?
- Storm surge: sea water pushed ashore by the storm. It is often the deadliest part of a hurricane near the coast.
- Rain flooding: slow storms can drop more than 20 inches of rain. Hurricane Harvey dropped over 40 inches in parts of the Houston area in 2017.
- Wind: damages roofs, windows and power lines, and can spin up tornadoes.
Remember that surge and rain flooding are flood damage, which standard home insurance does not cover.
How to prepare before the season
- Know your zone. Look up your evacuation zone with your county or state emergency office. It is based on surge risk and is different from your flood insurance zone.
- Check your insurance in spring. Flood policies usually have a 30-day wait, and insurers often stop selling new policies once a storm is named and heading your way. Check your hurricane deductible too.
- Plan where you would go. Pick a place inland, a route, and a backup.
- Build a kit. Water (1 gallon per person per day for several days), food, medicines, flashlights, batteries, phone chargers, copies of documents and some cash.
- Protect the house. Trim trees, clear gutters, and know how to shut off power and water. Shutters or pre-cut plywood help protect windows.
- Take photos of your home and belongings. They make insurance claims faster.
When a storm is coming
Follow local officials. If they order an evacuation for your zone, leave. Fill the car with fuel early, bring outdoor items inside, and charge your phones. After the storm, stay out of flood water, which can hide downed power lines and debris.
Questions people ask
What is the difference between a watch and a warning? A hurricane watch means hurricane conditions are possible in the area, usually within 48 hours. A warning means they are expected, usually within 36 hours.
How are hurricanes categorized? By sustained wind speed on the Saffir-Simpson scale, from Category 1 (74 to 95 mph) to Category 5 (157 mph or more). The category doesn’t measure rain or surge, which can be deadly in any category.
Can I buy flood insurance when a storm is forecast? You can buy it, but the usual 30-day waiting period means it won’t cover that storm.
This page gives general preparation information. Always follow instructions from your local emergency officials.