🌀 Hurricane Season in Sarasota: 5 Smart Do’s and Don’ts for 2025

By Anne Schneider, Sarasota Real Estate Agent

As much as we love the sunshine, palm trees, and salty breezes here in Sarasota, we know that hurricane season is a reality we must take seriously—especially from June through November. Whether you’re new to the Gulf Coast or a seasoned Floridian, it’s always smart to revisit your storm prep strategy each year.

Here are 5 key things every Sarasota resident should know or do right now—plus a few things to absolutely avoid—as we enter the 2025 hurricane season.

1. ✅ Do: Know Your Evacuation Zone

🛑 Don’t: Assume You’re Safe Because You’re Inland

Sarasota County makes it easy to find your evacuation zone with their interactive tool (search “Sarasota evacuation level”). This tells you if you’re in a flood-prone or storm surge area—crucial info when a storm is coming.

If you live in a mobile home, low-lying area, or near the coast, you may be asked to evacuate sooner than others. Start planning now for where you’d go and how you’d get there.

💡 Real estate tip: Buyers moving to the area should always check the flood and evacuation zones before closing!

2. ✅ Do: Review Your Insurance NOW

🛑 Don’t: Wait Until There’s a Storm in the Gulf

Many homeowners don’t realize that standard insurance doesn’t cover flooding. If you’re near water—even if it’s just a pond or retention basin—you’ll want to look into flood insurance. Some policies take 30 days to activate.

Also, review your wind mitigation credits. Reinforcing windows, roofs, and garage doors can not only help protect your home, but may also reduce your premiums.

🛠️ Bonus: Florida has some great state grant programs to help upgrade your home’s storm protection—worth looking into!

3. ✅ Do: Prep Your Supply Kit

🛑 Don’t: Scramble for Batteries the Day Before Landfall

Trust me—when a hurricane watch is issued, the stores will be packed and picked over. Make a hurricane kit now with:

• Water (1 gallon per person per day for 7–10 days)

• Non-perishable food & snacks

• Flashlights, batteries, and phone chargers

• Medications & important documents in waterproof bags

• Pet supplies (don’t forget the fur babies!)

• A battery-powered radio for weather updates

And yes, wine and peanut butter count as supplies (just maybe not officially 😉).

4. ✅ Do: Hurricane-Proof Your Home

🛑 Don’t: Forget the Small Stuff Outside

Before the winds pick up, secure anything that could fly: patio furniture, garden tools, decor, even trash cans. Trim back branches, clean out gutters, and test your storm shutters (don’t wait until the rain is sideways!).

If your home is prone to flooding, Sarasota County provides free sandbags—keep an eye on local announcements for pickup sites.

🏡 Pro tip: Buyers often ask about a home’s storm safety—things like impact windows, roof straps, and elevation can all affect resale value.

5. ✅ Do: Stay Connected and Informed

🛑 Don’t: Rely on Social Media Rumors

Sign up for Alert Sarasota County (free text/email alerts), and follow the official city and county social media channels for updates. Keep a communication plan with family, friends, and neighbors—especially if cell service goes down.

And remember: storm tracks change. A “Category 1” on Wednesday could be a “Category 3” by Friday. Stay ready, not reactive.

Final Thoughts from Anne 💬

As a local Realtor, I see firsthand how hurricanes can impact not just homes, but families, neighborhoods, and peace of mind. The good news is: preparation is power. The more ready we are, the safer we stay.

If you’re buying or selling in Sarasota and want advice on storm-ready homes, insurance, or flood zones—I’m always happy to help.

Stay safe, stay smart, and let’s weather this season together.

Warmly,

Anne Schneider
Sarasota Real Estate Agent

 Serving Sarasota, Siesta Key, and surrounding Gulf Coast communities
 www.schneiderflorida.com