Weather Guides

What to Do When A Hurricane Watch or Warning Is Issued

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Key Points
  • Act immediately when a hurricane watch or warning is issued: Prepare your property by securing outdoor items, reinforcing windows and doors, reviewing your insurance policies, backing up critical data, and assembling an emergency kit with essentials like water, food, flashlights, and medications.
  • Develop a clear evacuation and communication plan: Know your evacuation route, stay informed via trusted weather updates, have cash and important documents ready, and ensure all family members—or employees, for business continuity—understand where to go and how to stay in touch.

When a hurricane is approaching there are many things that need to be planned for. We’ve already talked about how to prepare before hurricane season begins in a previous post, but there are more things you may need to do when a storm is imminent. In this post, we’ll discuss what you’ll want to consider doing before a hurricane watch is issued and when a hurricane watch and hurricane warning is issued.

Before a Hurricane Watch is Issued

If a major storm is approaching you do not want to wait until a hurricane watch is issued to start preparing. Here are some things to consider doing beforehand.

Hurricane Watch and Warning

A hurricane watch will be issued when there is a hurricane threat within 24-36 hours. A hurricane warning will be issued when hurricane conditions are expected within 24 hours or less. During each of these times, you’ll want to stay informed via reputable sources such as local news organizations and government press conferences. There are a few different things you’ll want to do depending on if you stay home or relocate.

Remaining Home
If You Need to Relocate

Remember, after a storm passes there are still many dangerous hazards. Be vigilant for and downed power lines and report them immediately to the power company. Walk and drive cautiously as washouts may weaken roads and bridges. Also, boil municipal water before drinking until it’s deemed safe to drink.

If your home is damaged you’ll need to notify your insurance company as soon as possible to get your claims process started. If you had to relocate, inform your insurance agent on where you are and the best way to contact you. If you remained home, it is best to make temporary repairs to prevent further damage. Keep all receipts for all materials purchased.

Jeffrey Mohr Headshot

Jeffrey Mohr, CPCU, ARM

Jeff Mohr is the President and Owner of Lewis Mohr Insurance Agency. He began his career in 1982 after earning a degree in Management and Finance from LSU, followed by a Master’s in Insurance Management (MSIM) from Boston University. With over 40 years of experience, Jeff holds the CPCU and ARM designations and is a past president of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of Louisiana. He has been recognized with the Lou Daniel Award for outstanding service to the insurance industry and remains active in civic and community organizations. Jeff leads the agency with a deep commitment to trusted service, ethical standards, and generational growth.
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