Weather Emergency: Online Resources for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Wildfires

Prepare for hurricane season, potential flooding, or the increasing threat of wildfires. Know where to turn for accurate guidance and real-time alerts.

7/4/2025

Weather Emergency Preparedness: Online Resources for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Wildfires

When disaster strikes, the right information — at the right time — can save lives. Whether you're preparing for hurricane season, potential flooding, or the increasing threat of wildfires, knowing where to turn for accurate guidance and real-time alerts is critical.

Below is a list of online safety preparedness resources to help you plan, respond, and recover from major weather-related emergencies.

🌀 Hurricane Preparedness Resources

National Hurricane Center (NHC)

The official authority for Atlantic and Pacific hurricane tracking. Find real-time storm updates, forecast cones, and preparation tips.

Highlights:

  • Storm surge maps

  • Hurricane preparedness checklists

  • Evacuation route guidance

Ready.gov – Hurricanes

This FEMA-backed site offers straightforward steps for preparing your home, creating an emergency plan, and building a go-bag for hurricane season.

🌊 Flood Preparedness Resources

FEMA Flood Map Service Center

Discover whether your home is in a flood-prone zone using FEMA’s searchable flood zone map.

Red Cross – Flood Safety

Offers step-by-step instructions on what to do before, during, and after a flood, including how to clean up safely.

Weather.gov – Flood Safety

Includes guidance on flash floods, levee failures, and flood warning alerts in your region.

🔥 Wildfire Preparedness Resources

Cal Fire – ReadyForWildfire.org

An excellent resource for residents of fire-prone regions (especially California). Learn how to create defensible space, prepare go-bags, and receive wildfire alerts.

Firewise USA – NFPA

Run by the National Fire Protection Association, this program helps communities reduce wildfire risks through home hardening and neighborhood planning.

Top All-Hazard Preparedness Tools & Apps
  • FEMA App (iOS/Android) – Alerts, shelter locators, and safety tips

  • Red Cross Emergency App – Custom alerts for floods, fires, hurricanes, and more

  • NOAA Weather Radar Live – Real-time weather tracking

  • MyShake App – Bonus: earthquake alerts for west coast residents

Recommended Emergency Supplies to Keep On Hand
  • Go-Bags

  • Portable radios (NOAA certified)

  • Flashlights & headlamps

  • Emergency blankets

  • Water purification tablets

  • Fire blankets (for wildfire zones)

  • Waterproof document pouches

See our free downloadable recommended Emergency Gear list

Disasters can strike with little warning — but preparedness starts today, not when the storm is on the horizon. Bookmark these resources, build your emergency kit, and create a plan with your family.

Staying informed is your first line of defense.