Preparing for 2026 Hurricane Season in Southwest Florida
Hurricane Ian delivered a harsh reminder in 2022 of how powerful these storms can be across Southwest Florida. Many families are still rebuilding even years later. Now that the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season is active, it’s smart to start preparing early so you’re not scrambling when a storm approaches.
At Hunt’s Landscape, we’ve worked with thousands of SWFL homeowners through major storms. While our expertise is in creating strong, resilient yards, real preparedness covers your entire home and family. Here’s a practical, straightforward guide to help you get ready.
Why Preparation Matters Here
Southwest Florida’s combination of coastal exposure, waterfront properties, canals, and sandy soils creates unique challenges during hurricanes — from storm surge and flooding to high winds and salt spray. Taking action ahead of time can greatly reduce damage, lower stress, and help your property recover faster afterward.
Key Steps to Get Your Home and Family Ready
Start by creating a solid family emergency plan. Sit down together and map out your evacuation routes, identify a safe meeting spot outside flood zones, and choose an out-of-state contact. Make sure everyone knows your flood zone and the location of nearby shelters. Don’t forget to include plans for pets, elderly family members, or anyone with special medical needs.
Next, build a good emergency supply kit with enough supplies to last at least 3 to 7 days — two weeks is even better. Stock up on bottled water (one gallon per person per day), non-perishable food, a manual can opener, prescription medications, a first-aid kit, flashlights, extra batteries, and a battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA weather radio. Keep important documents like insurance papers, IDs, and medical records in a waterproof container, along with some cash. A few extra items like duct tape, garbage bags, and power banks can also come in very handy.
Protecting your actual home is another big priority. Check that your storm shutters or plywood coverings are ready for the windows, and reinforce garage doors if needed. Clear out your gutters and downspouts so water can flow freely. Bring all outdoor furniture, trash cans, potted plants, and loose items inside or tie them down securely. It’s also wise to fill up your vehicles with gas early and review your flood and windstorm insurance policies to make sure you have adequate coverage.
When it comes to your yard and landscaping, a few targeted steps can make a major difference. Have your trees and palms professionally inspected and trimmed, removing any dead or weak branches. For palms, stick to removing only dead fronds — the popular “hurricane cut” that strips healthy green leaves can actually stress them and make them more vulnerable. Improve drainage by addressing low spots in the yard and clearing storm drains. Choosing Florida-friendly native plants like Sabal palms, live oaks, gumbo limbo, firebush, and Simpson stopper will give you better wind and salt resistance. Finally, repair any damaged sod and test your irrigation system so everything is in good shape before heavy rains hit. Take plenty of photos of your entire property for insurance purposes.
Stay informed throughout the season by signing up for local emergency alerts and following the National Hurricane Center and trusted local news sources. Have backup ways to get information if power or internet goes out.
What to Do After the Storm
Wait until local officials say it’s safe before heading outside. Avoid downed power lines and flooded areas completely. Document any damage with photos right away before starting cleanup. Remove debris quickly to prevent mold and pests, and get a professional assessment for any damaged trees — improper cutting can cause more problems down the road. Check on your neighbors, especially the elderly or those who may need extra help.
How Hunt’s Landscape Can Help
Our team specializes in making Southwest Florida landscapes stronger against storms. From expert tree trimming and removal to hurricane-resistant designs, sod installation, smart irrigation upgrades, and full property evaluations, we have the local knowledge and resources — including our own tree farm — to support you.
Ready to strengthen your yard? Schedule a free consultation today by calling or texting 239-265-6180 or visiting huntslandscape.com.
Taking these steps now can give you real peace of mind as we move through hurricane season. Stay safe out there, Southwest Florida!