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Hurricane Preparedness Week

Empower yourself this Hurricane Preparedness Week! Stay ahead of the storm with knowledge and readiness, because safety starts at home.

Sunday

2–8

May 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEHurricane Preparedness Week (NOAA, 1st Sun May, 7-day)

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYPublic Health

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Kick off your hurricane readiness plan on May 1, the start of Hurricane Preparedness Week! This special week has been part of our national calendar since the early 1980s, decided upon by the National Weather Service to raise awareness and promote proactive measures ahead of the hurricane season. While hurricanes may evoke dread, this week serves as a beacon of preparedness, encouraging everyone to empower themselves with knowledge of what to do when a storm hits. So, let's roll up those sleeves and get ready – because staying safe begins at home, and a storm-ready household contributes to a storm-ready nation!

TIMELINE

Hurricane Preparedness Week Timeline

Early Hurricane Forecasts

In the late 1800s, meteorologists began to develop rudimentary methods to predict hurricanes and severe weather events.

Satellite Era Begins

The first successful weather satellite, TIROS-1, was launched by NASA, revolutionizing the ability to track and forecast hurricanes.

Establishment of Preparedness Week

The National Weather Service established Hurricane Preparedness Week in the early 1980s to promote readiness ahead of the hurricane season.

"Storm of the Century"

Hurricane Andrew ravages South Florida, underscoring the importance of preparedness and fueling efforts directed at education and safety measures.

Hurricane Katrina Tragedy

The devastation by Hurricane Katrina reaffirmed the importance of hurricane preparedness, leading to a significant increase in national efforts towards hurricane readiness.

Superstorm Sandy Impacts

The widespread destruction caused by Superstorm Sandy led to further advancements in preparedness strategies, ensuring citizens are well-equipped ahead of severe weather events.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Hurricane Preparedness Week

Organize an emergency supply kit

Essentials such as water, canned food, batteries, flashlights and medicines should be packed and ready at all times. Make sure to check your supply kit once a year during Hurricane Preparedness Week to replace expired items and add any necessities you may have missed.

CONDUCT

Conduct a practice evacuation drill

Map out the safest evacuation routes from your home and have a mock drill with your family. Practice makes perfect. Becoming familiar with your plan will lessen panic if a real evacuation order is issued.

COMPILE

Compile a list of local emergency contacts

This could include your local emergency management office, law enforcement agency, public health agency and power company. Take time during this week to ensure you have these necessary numbers on hand and saved into your phone.

CHECK

Check and secure your home

Dedicate time to evaluate your home’s structural integrity. Make sure all doors and windows have secure locks and functioning shutters, and any loose items outside the home that can become projectiles in high winds are safely stowed away.

Share the knowledge

Encourage friends and neighbors to get hurricane-ready too. Sharing information and resources will strengthen your entire community’s resilience in the face of a storm and foster a spirit of cooperation and mutual aid.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Hurricane Preparedness Week is Important

It Encourages Proactivity

Awareness is key when it comes to emergency preparedness. This special week promotes proactive actions like practicing evacuation drills, organizing emergency supply kits, and securing homes, instead of leaving things to chance. It reminds us that preparation is one of the most effective ways to mitigate the potential damage and stress caused by a hurricane.

Hurricane Preparedness Week Promotes Safety

Perhaps the most important reason we love Hurricane Preparedness Week is because it prioritizes our safety. The activities and information are designed to help us protect ourselves, our families, and our homes in case of a hurricane. This holiday aligns with the belief that safety comes first.

It Fosters a Sense of Community

Hurricane Preparedness Week encourages community engagement and collaboration. The mobilization of neighborhoods around shared goals is both beneficial and empowering. By sharing information and resources on how to get ready for a storm, we strengthen the resilience of our entire community and foster a spirit of mutual aid.

Related holidays

National Preparedness Month

September is National Preparedness Month - it's time to get ready and ensure your safety with emergency supplies, plans, and drills!

Disaster Day

Disaster Day is a reminder to prepare for the unexpected - make sure you have an emergency plan in place and stay safe!

International Disaster Day

Disaster Day is a reminder to always be prepared for the unexpected - join us in learning important safety tips and emergency protocols!

National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day

Don't let your furry friends be caught off guard during a natural disaster - mark your calendars for National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day!

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