Disclaimer: This guide is for general informational purposes only and may not be updated in real-time during an active storm. Always double-check current alerts and instructions from official sources such as Broward County Emergency Management and the National Hurricane Center. In an emergency, follow official guidance and use a battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio or other trusted source if internet access is unavailable.
Hurricane Grocery List
When a hurricane is in the forecast, one of the first things people in Broward rush to do is hit the grocery store. Having the right food and supplies on hand makes riding out a storm a lot less stressful, especially if the power goes out or stores stay closed for several days. The best approach is to stock up early in the season on long-lasting staples, then add fresh foods and comfort items as a storm gets closer. Here’s a breakdown of what to buy so you and your family stay safe, fed, and prepared.
Non-Perishable Foods
Non-perishable foods are items that can sit in your pantry for months without going bad, making them the backbone of any hurricane supply kit. These are the things you can stock up on at the start of hurricane season so you’re not scrambling when a storm is on the way. They don’t require refrigeration, and most can be eaten straight from the package or with minimal prep, perfect if the power goes out.
- Canned and dried meats (tuna, chicken, beef jerky)
- Canned beans (black beans, chickpeas, kidney beans)
- Chef Boyardee (you can eat it cold, straight out of the can)
- Canned soups
- Peanut butter & jelly
- Crackers, granola bars, protein bars
- Nuts, trail mix, dried fruit
- Canned fruit & applesauce cups
- Baby food & pet food (if needed)
- Cookies, chips, pretzels
- Candy or chocolate
- Pop-Tarts or snack cakes
- Instant coffee/tea packets
- Drinks (soda, energy drinks, sports drinks)
Short-Term Fresh Foods
While most of your hurricane kit should be shelf-stable, it’s also smart to grab a few fresh basics right before a storm. These foods won’t last for weeks without power, but they’ll hold up for several days and make meals feel a little more normal.
- Bread (FYI this sells out fast)
- Hot dogs (extra good if you have a grill)
- Fruit (apples, bananas, oranges)
- Vegetables (carrots, cucumbers, tomatoes)
Other Household Essentials
It’s easy to focus only on food and water, but a few household basics will make a huge difference in how comfortable you are after a storm. Nobody wants to be stuck in a messy house when you’re already dealing with power outages, and if the water isn’t running, you won’t be able to wash dishes. That’s why paper plates, plastic utensils, and other disposable supplies are worth stocking up on. They’ll keep things cleaner and make daily life a lot easier while you ride things out.
- Paper plates. Plastic cups and utensils
- Paper towels & toilet paper
- Hand sanitizer, baby wipes
- Ziplock bags, foil, trash bags
- Charcoal or propane if you have a grill (often sells out fast). Sterno cans if you don’t.
Water & Ice for Hurricane Preparedness
Water is one of the most important supplies to have on hand during a hurricane. Plan for at least one gallon of drinking water per person per day for a minimum of three days, and more if possible since you’ll also need it for cooking, cleaning, and brushing your teeth. A smart trick is to fill your bathtub before the storm hits. This gives you a backup supply of safe water for cleaning and flushing toilets if the main supply becomes unsafe.
Ice is just as important. When the power goes out, ice keeps food safe longer and cold drinks will feel like a luxury. Buy bags of ice ahead of time, or make your own by freezing water in plastic containers. Extra ice can also help keep your fridge and freezer colder for longer.
Tip from a Floridian: Once the power is out, turn your washing machine into a cooler. Load it with ice and drinks, and the insulation will keep things cold longer while the water drains away easily. It’s a simple trick to stay a little more comfortable after the storm.
Hurricane Preparedness Supply Kit
Food and water are just part of hurricane prep. You’ll also need a supply kit with everyday essentials that keep you safe and comfortable if the power goes out or stores stay closed for several days.
- First aid kit (bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, prescription meds)
- Flashlights and battery or solar-powered lanterns
- Solar chargers
- Charcoal or propane grill (for cooking if power is out)
- Extra batteries (for flashlights, radios, fans, etc.)
- Battery-powered, solar-powered, or hand-crank NOAA weather radio
- Portable phone chargers/power banks
- Important documents in waterproof bags (IDs, insurance, medical records)
- Cash (ATMs and card readers may be down)
- Hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, hand sanitizer, feminine products)
- Baby supplies, if needed (diapers, wipes, formula)
- Pet supplies (food, leash, carrier, meds)
Broward County Evacuation Zones
When a hurricane threatens, Broward County issues evacuation orders based on zones. These zones are determined by how close an area is to the coast, its elevation, and its vulnerability to storm surge. If you live east of U.S. 1 or near the water, you’re more likely to be in an evacuation zone than if you’re further inland.
It’s important to know your zone ahead of time so you’re not scrambling at the last minute. The county maintains an official evacuation map that shows which zone each neighborhood falls into.
Tip from a Floridian: If you plan to evacuate the state, make your hotel reservations early. Rooms along the interstate routes sell out quickly once an evacuation order is announced. Be sure your car has a full tank of gas (stations often run dry before a storm) and leave as early as possible to avoid heavy traffic on I-95, I-75, and the Turnpike.
Broward County Hurricane Shelters
If you have no one inland to stay with during a storm, Broward County operates public shelters as a safe option. Shelters are typically located in schools and other large buildings built to withstand hurricanes. They provide a secure place to ride out the storm, but you’ll need to bring your own supplies since food, bedding, and personal items are limited.
Click here for a list of hurricane shelters in Broward County. Or call the Broward County Emergency Hotline at 311 (954-831-4000)
Important things to know about shelters:
- Shelters open only when an evacuation order is issued.
- Not all shelters open at once. The county decides which locations to activate depending on the storm.
- Special Needs Shelters are available for residents with medical conditions who require electricity or assistance. You must pre-register through Broward County’s Vulnerable Population Registry.
- Some shelters accept pets, but you’ll need to bring a crate, food, and vaccination records.
What to bring:
- ID and important documents
- Sleeping bag, pillow, or blankets
- Food and snacks
- Bottled water
- Medications and medical equipment
- Phone chargers and power banks
- Comfort items for kids (toys, books, headphones)
Tip from a Floridian: Shelters are a last resort. They’re safe, but crowded and noisy. If you can, make arrangements to stay with family or friends outside of the evacuation zones.
Keep Your Pets Safe During the Storm
If you’re riding out the storm at home, your pets need preparation just as much as you do. Hurricanes can be loud and frightening, and animals often pick up on your stress, so planning ahead helps keep them calm and safe.
Pet preparedness at home:
- Create a safe space: Pick an interior room away from windows where you and your pets can stay during the storm.
- Stock extra supplies: Keep at least 7 days’ worth of food, bottled water, and medications for each pet.
- Comfort matters: Have their bed, toys, and familiar items nearby to reduce stress.
- Keep ID updated: Make sure collars, tags, and microchips are current in case your pet slips out after the storm.
- Sanitation: Have litter, puppy pads, or waste bags ready if it’s unsafe to take them outside.
- After the storm: Don’t let pets roam outside right away. Broken glass, debris, downed power lines, and contaminated water can all be dangerous.
