ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – With the official start of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season underway, the City of St. Petersburg is strongly encouraging all residents to begin their preparations now.
Proactive measures are key to safeguarding families and properties, minimizing risks, and enabling a swift community response when severe weather threatens.
A significant new resource for this season is the “Prepare, St. Pete” interactive map, launched by the City to help residents identify potential hazards specific to their property.
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This comprehensive online tool allows users to locate evacuation zones, flood zones, floodplains, and other critical information. The map is readily accessible at www.stpete.org/Hurricane.
“Early preparation is critical to ensure the safety of you, your family, and your property,” stated city officials. “By taking proactive steps now, residents can minimize risks and be ready to respond quickly when severe weather threatens our community.”
Key Hurricane Season Preparation Tips:
- Review the Good Neighbor Guide: The City’s Good Neighbor Guide to Hurricane Planning, available at www.stpete.org/GNG, offers practical advice on disaster supply kits and other essential preparations.
- Prepare Your Home and Yard: Residents are advised to trim low-hanging tree limbs, clear gutters and drains, and photograph their property for insurance purposes.
- Secure Important Documents: Birth certificates, Social Security cards, and passports should be gathered and stored safely, preferably elevated off the floor.
- Consult County and State Resources: Additional guidance is available through Pinellas County at www.pinellas.gov/hurricane-guide and the Florida Division of Emergency Management at www.floridadisaster.org/Hazards/Hurricanes. Alerts and updates will also be posted on the Tampa Free Press.
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Sandbags Available Ahead of Storms:
To facilitate year-round preparedness, the City offers free sandbags during non-emergency periods. Residents can pick up a maximum of 10 pre-filled sandbags per household at the Pavement and Traffic Operations Building, located at 1744 9th Ave. N, Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and on the second Saturday of each month.
Distribution locations may change during emergencies; updates will be posted at www.stpete.org/Sandbags.
Understanding and Preparing for Flooding:
As a vibrant waterfront city, St. Petersburg faces an ongoing risk of localized flooding and storm surges. Residents are reminded that flooding can occur anywhere, not just on the water, making flood insurance a vital component of preparedness.
The City urges residents to review their flood insurance coverage during calm weather and understand the necessary steps to take if flooding occurs. Comprehensive tips and resources on flooding in St. Pete are available at www.stpete.org/Flooding.
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