2025
GUIDE
PREPARING THE DAYTONA BEACH COMMUNITY
DAYTONABEACH.GOV
TABLE of CONTENTS
Welcome Letter from the Mayor and City Manager
STAYING INFORMED: Alerts & Communication Channels
1
What is a Hurricane? Understanding Tropical Cyclones
3
BEFORE THE STORM: City Preparations
5
Emergency Supply Kit Checklist
11
Family Emergency Plan
12
DURING THE STORM: Safety Tips
14
AFTER THE STORM: Safety & Recovery
16
STORM PREPAREDNESS GUIDE 2025
A letter TO OUR COMMUNITY BE PREPARED: 2025 HURRICANE SEASON FORECAST CALLS FOR VIGILANCE As the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season begins, early preparation is more important than ever. Forecasts from NOAA and other agencies predict an above-average season, with 17 to 19 named storms, four major hurricanes and a higher chance of landfall along Florida’s Atlantic coast. The shift from El Niño to possible La Niña conditions, along with record-high ocean temperatures, makes this a season to take seriously. HOW THE CITY IS PREPARING The city is ready with emergency protocols for before, during and after a storm: Before: We inspect storm drains, offer sandbags, secure public property and coordinate with Volusia County and state agencies. During: Our emergency operations center monitors conditions and shares updates in real time. After: We assess damage, clear roads, restore services and support recovery.
WHAT YOU CAN DO Have a plan: Know your evacuation zone and make arrangements for those with special needs and pets. Build a kit: Stock up on water, food, medications, flashlights and important documents.
Stay informed: Follow the city’s website and social media. Sign up for emergency alerts. Secure your home: Trim trees, bring in outdoor items and check your insurance coverage.
WE’RE IN THIS TOGETHER Every storm season is unpredictable, but being prepared isn’t. The City of Daytona Beach is committed to keeping our community informed, safe and resilient. Let’s all do our part to be ready before the first storm forms.
Stay safe and stay prepared, Mayor Derrick L. Henry and City Manager Deric C. Feacher
STORM-RELATED COMMUNICATION Stay informed during a storm. Subscribe to our emergency alerts, follow us on social media and sign up for citywide newsletters to receive real-time updates.
MONITOR STORM ALERTS Facebook.com/DBCityInfo Facebook.com/DaytonaBeachEM Instagram.com/CityDaytonaBeach X.com/CityDaytona Nextdoor.com/
Emergency Alerts DaytonaBeach.gov/Alerts
STORM PREPAREDNESS GUIDE 2025
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Understanding Tropical Cyclones According to NOAA, a tropical cyclone is a rotating low-pressure weather system with organized thunderstorms but no boundary separating different air masses. Tropical cyclones are classified based on their wind speeds. WHEN SUSTAINED SURFACE WINDS ARE LESS THAN 39 MILES PER HOUR (MPH), THE SYSTEM IS CALLED A TROPICAL DEPRESSION. ONCE WINDS REACH 39 MPH OR HIGHER, IT BECOMES A TROPICAL STORM. IF THE STORM’S WINDS REACH 74 MPH OR MORE, IT IS CLASSIFIED AS A HURRICANE. Hurricanes are further categorized using the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale , which ranges from Category 1 to Category 5. The higher the category, the greater the potential for property damage.
STORM PREPAREDNESS GUIDE 2025 The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale 1 2 3 4 5 74-95 mph 96-110 mph 111-129 mph 130-156 mph 157 mph or higher CAT CAT CAT CAT CAT
vs. WATCH WARNING Hurricane Watch means conditions (sustained winds of at least 74 mph) are possible in the area within 48 hours. Hurricane Warning means hurricane-force conditions (sustained winds of at least 74 mph) are expected in the area in 36 hours or less.
Flooding Can Happen Anywhere
Protect Your Property with Flood Insurance
Floods are one of the most common natural hazards in the United States— and Daytona Beach is no exception. Even if your property has never flooded before, it’s still at risk. Heavy rain, storm surge and overwhelmed drainage systems can all lead to flooding.
Standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage. If you don’t have flood insurance, talk to your insurance provider today. Because Daytona Beach participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP): You can purchase affordable, federally backed flood insurance.
QUICK TIP: Take photos of your property and valuables before a storm. Documenting your personal items can help support your flood insurance claim and speed up the recovery process.
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BEFORE A
CITY PREPARATIONS Stormwater System Checks Secure Public Property Emergency Team Activation ✓ ✓ ✓
/// Tiger Dams Deployed, 2024
Prepare Before the Storm Hits Stay informed through official city
Fuel Up and Charge Devices Fill your gas tank in advance , as fuel may be limited after a storm. Charge your phone, power banks and any medical devices that rely on electricity.
channels and weather alerts. Make a plan with your family, gather emergency supplies and know your evacuation zone in case orders are issued.
Secure Your Home and Belongings
Follow Evacuation Orders Promptly
Bring in or secure outdoor furniture, trash bins and anything that could become airborne. Board up windows if necessary and check that your storm drains are clear.
If local officials issue an evacuation order, leave immediately. Delaying could put you and your loved ones in danger. Know your route and destination ahead of time.
PREPARE
ACT
RECOVER
STORM PREPAREDNESS GUIDE 2025
Hurricane Season Prep: GET YOUR HOME READY! Protect your property and your loved ones before the storm hits.
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Secure Outdoor Items Bring in patio furniture, grills and décor. Tie down or store trash bins, plants and other loose items. Protect Windows & Doors Install storm shutters or board up windows with plywood. Reinforce garage doors to prevent wind damage. ✓ Check Your Roof Inspect for loose shingles and secure any weak areas. Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent water damage. Trim Trees & Shrubs Remove dead branches and limbs near your home. Keep landscaping tidy to reduce flying debris. ✓ ✓
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Stock Emergency Supplies Have enough water, food, medications, batteries and flashlights for 3–7 days. Include pet supplies, important documents and first-aid items. Prepare for Power Outages Charge all devices and backup batteries. Consider purchasing a generator and follow safety guidelines when using it. ✓
Don’t wait until it’s too late. A few simple steps now can make a big difference later.
For more hurricane preparedness tips, visit: DaytonaBeach.gov/EmergencyPreparedness
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Insurance Preparedness: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW Five Key Questions to Ask About Your Policy
What is my standard deductible?
What is my hurricane deductible?
Do I need flood insurance?
Do I have enough coverage to replace my home and personal belongings?
Do I have loss-of-use coverage to help pay for temporary housing if I can’t live in my home?
Not all insurance policies are the same. Review your policy or talk with your insurance agent to ensure you have the right coverage for hurricane season.
Flood Insurance Most standard homeowners insurance policies do not cover flood damage caused by rising water. If you live in a designated flood zone, your mortgage provider will likely require you to carry a flood insurance policy. To learn more about flood protection, visit: FloodSmart.gov
Renters: Protect Your Property Renters also need to prepare for storms.
/// Hurricane Milton, 2024
Do I know my building’s risk of flooding or storm surge?
Do I know my evacuation zone?
Do I need flood and renters insurance to protect my belongings?
Will my landlord install window protection before a storm? If not, where will I go?
Your landlord’s policy likely does not cover your personal items—you’ll need separate renters insurance.
STORM PREPAREDNESS GUIDE 2025
Sandbag Location & Distribution Times To help residents protect their property from localized flooding, the City of Daytona Beach opens self-serve sandbag distribution sites when a storm is approaching.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
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There is a 10-bag limit per vehicle. Sandbags are free of charge. Residents must bring their own shovel to fill sandbags.
Distribution times and any updates will be posted on DaytonaBeach.gov and the city’s official social media channels. Operations may be extended based on demand and weather conditions.
Bethune Point Park, 11 Bellevue Ave. ENTRANCE Bellevue Ave. EXIT Fremont Ct.
* Times will be posted on DaytonaBeach.gov and social media channels.
BETHUNE POINT PARK
EXIT FREMONT CT.
Sandbag location and traffic flow for 2025, times will be made available and posted to the city website and social media channels.
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How to FILL Sandbags Use proper materials: Use woven polypropylene sandbags.
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FILL 1/2 TO 2/3 FULL: Each sandbag should be about 35–40 pounds when filled. Overfilling makes them hard to stack and less effective.
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DON’T TIE CLOSED: Leave the top untied and fold it under when placing. This helps the bag mold to others in the stack. How to Lay Sandbags
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PREPARE THE AREA Clear debris from the area where bags will be placed. Focus on doors, garage openings and low entry points. LAY BAGS LIKE BRICKS Place each sandbag flat, overlapping like bricks in a wall. Tuck the flap under the bag to hold its shape.
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BUILD 1–2 ROWS HIGH For most doorways, 1–2 layers are enough. Stagger layers for added strength.
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ANGLE FOR WATER FLOW Place bags in a horseshoe shape around entrances, with the open end facing away from water flow. Need sandbags? Check the City of Daytona Beach website or social media for distribution sites and limits during storm season. DaytonaBeach.gov
/// Bethune Point Park
STORM PREPAREDNESS GUIDE 2025
/// FloridaDisaster.org
During hurricane season, knowing your evacuation zone is one of the most important steps you can take to protect yourself and your family. Know Your Zone Evacuation zones are based on your risk of storm surge and flooding. If you live in a low-lying area, mobile home or manufactured housing, or near the coast, you may be in a zone that’s ordered to evacuate. Check your evacuation zone by visiting: FloridaDisaster.org/Know Enter your address to find out if you’re in Zone A (most likely to evacuate first through Zone E (last to evacuate) Always follow local evacuation orders when issued
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ZONE A ZONE AB ZONE B ZONE BC ZONE C ZONE D ZONE DE
Know Your Home
If your home is outside of an evacuation zone and built to withstand strong winds, you may be able to shelter in place.
Evacuation Routes & Shelters Knowing where to go during a storm or emergency is crucial. Volusia County provides up-to-date shelter information, including pet-friendly and special needs shelters. Visit Volusia.org/ to view shelter locations, what to bring and how to prepare. ✓
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After creating your emergency plan, the next step is to build a supply kit tailored to your household’s specific needs. Be sure to include essential items like non- perishable food, water, flashlights and a first-aid kit. If you have children, pack games or activities that don’t require power to keep them comforted and entertained. For those who rely on daily medication, include an adequate supply and consult your doctor or pharmacist about early refills. If mobility is a concern, consider using a container with wheels to make transporting your kit easier. FOR READINESS & EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS plan
WATER RADIO FIRST AID KIT NON-PERISHABLE FOOD MEDICATIONS PET SUPPLIES FLASHLIGHT BATTERIES PORTABLE PHONE CHARGERS CASH PLAN FOR EVACUATION
Photos of Family Members and Pets Ponchos Fuel Soap Special Family Needs (Diapers, Feminine Hygiene Items, Etc.)
Blanket Change of Clothing Can Opener Duct Tape Dust Mask Games and Toys Gloves Hand Sanitizers Keys (Home & Car) Large Plastic
Toilet Paper Toothbrush Towel Waterproof Bag with Family Documents Including Driver’s License, Insurance Information, Out-of-Area Contact
Trash Bags Local Map Pocket Knife/ Multi-Tool
✓ RESOURCES ADDITIONAL
READY.GOV/HURRICANES FLORIDADISASTER.ORG/GUIDE ✓
you’re ready when disaster strikes. [
Thoughtfully preparing your kit ensures
STORM PREPAREDNESS GUIDE 2025
CUT ALONG LINE TO REMOVE PAGE AND PLACE IN YOUR STORM PREPAREDNESS BOX
Primary Emergency Contact: __________________________________________________ EMERGENCY PLAN
Secondary Emergency Contact: _______________________________________________
Out-of-Area Contact: _________________________________________________________
Work Phone Numbers: _________________________________________________________
School/Daycare Contacts: ____________________________________________________
Doctor/Medical Provider: _____________________________________________________
Veterinarian (if applicable): ___________________________________________________
Home Address: _______________________________________________________________
Nearest Shelter Location: ______________________________________________________
Pet Shelter Plan/Location: _____________________________________________________
Nearest Hospital/ER: ___________________________________________________________
Insurance Company & Policy Number: _________________________________________
Local Evacuation Route: ______________________________________________________
Meeting Spot (in case of separation): __________________________________________
EMERGENCY RESOURCES Daytona Beach Emergency Management
National Hurricane Center nhc.noaa.gov Red Cross RedCross.org/Prepare Phone: (800) 733-2767 FEMA Disaster Assistance DisasterAssistance.gov Phone: (800) 621-3362
DaytonaBeach.gov/EM Hotline: (386) 671-5555 Volusia County Emergency Management Volusia.org/Hurricane Phone: (386) 254-1500
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KEEP OUR DRAINS CLEAN let’s
Storm drains are a vital part of our city’s infrastructure. They help prevent flooding by channeling rainwater away from streets, homes and businesses and into local waterways like the Intracoastal Waterway and Tomoka River. When these drains are clogged with debris, their ability to function properly is compromised—especially during heavy rain, hurricanes or tropical storms.
Why Clean Storm Drains Matter Clogged storm drains can lead to:
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Localized flooding, especially in low-lying areas
Property damage from standing water or runoff
Polluted waterways from chemicals, grass clippings, fertilizers and trash
Harm to local wildlife and natural ecosystems
By keeping drains clear, we improve drainage, protect water quality and reduce the risk of flooding during severe weather.
community safe and dry. [
Whether you’re a resident or part of a local group, you can help keep your
STORM PREPAREDNESS GUIDE 2025
DURING A
CITY PREPARATIONS
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Emergency Team Activation Phone Hotline Activation Rescue Efforts
/// Rescue, Hurricane Milton, 2024
Safety STORM
Outdoors: If caught outside, seek shelter right away. Stay clear of trees, power lines and loose objects. At Home: Stay indoors and away from windows. Use a windowless interior room for shelter. Mobile Homes: These are not safe during hurricanes—even if anchored. Wind over 80 mph can cause severe damage. Plan ahead to shelter with family, friends or at a public shelter.
Sheltering in Place: Use one interior, windowless room. Keeping everyone in one place helps ensure safety. Fire Safety: Keep a working fire extinguisher nearby. Prevent Hazards: Unplug electronics and avoid candles—use flashlights or battery lanterns instead.
Emergency Response Be aware that police, fire and medical response times may be delayed due to hazardous conditions. Remain indoors and stay away from windows.
POLICE
FIRE
Curfews may be enacted by the City of Daytona Beach to protect public safety and ensure emergency crews can respond without obstruction.
Generator Safety Generators can be lifesavers—but only if used safely: Use Outside Only: Keep 20+ feet from windows and doors to avoid carbon monoxide. Keep Dry: Use on a dry surface under an open canopy—never in rain or wet areas. Refuel Carefully: Turn off and cool completely before adding fuel. Plug In Safely: Use outdoor-rated cords or a transfer switch. NEVER PLUG INTO A WALL OUTLET.
Stay safe. Follow these tips to use your generator responsibly during and after the storm.
Bridge Closures in Daytona Beach When sustained winds reach 39 mph, all bridges crossing the Halifax River in Daytona Beach are closed for safety. Bridges will remain closed until after the storm has passed and the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has completed inspections to confirm they are structurally safe to reopen. Westbound traffic from the beachside to the mainland may be permitted before eastbound lanes reopen; however, access back to the beachside may be restricted if mandatory evacuations are still in effect or if emergency response operations are ongoing.
Do not attempt to cross closed bridges or remove barricades—this is extremely dangerous.
AFTER A
CITY PROCEDURES Rescue Efforts Debris Removal Damage Assessment
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Evaluate Recovery Assistance Needs Bridge & Pier Structural Inspections City Facilities & Services Reopening
/// Hurricane Milton, 2024
Stay Indoors Until It’s Safe DO NOT go outside until winds have completely calmed and local officials confirm the danger has passed. Debris and unstable conditions can pose serious risks.
AVOID Flooded Roads NEVER drive through flooded areas. Do not drive around barricades; they are in place for your protection. NEVER walk through or let children play in floodwaters. X
Protect Your Health and Safety Throw away any food that has come into contact with floodwater. Boil drinking water until officials confirm it’s safe. Stay out of buildings that are still surrounded by floodwater. Avoid handling electrical equipment in wet areas.
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TRAFFIC LIGHT OUT? STOP & STAY SAFE! When traffic signals lose power, the intersection doesn’t become a free-for-all—it becomes a four-way stop. Here’s what to do: STOP at the intersection – Just like you would at a stop sign. YIELD to vehicles on the right – If two or more cars arrive at the same time. GO in the order you arrived – Take turns cautiously and clearly. WATCH for pedestrians and cyclists – Everyone shares the road. STAY ALERT – Some drivers may not follow the rules. Don’t assume you have the right of way. Do your part to keep everyone safe. ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Remember If the light is out, treat it as a 4-way stop. It’s the law—and it saves lives.
STORM PREPAREDNESS GUIDE 2025
HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE Cleaning supplies Batteries Lawn Chemicals Oils Oil-based Paints & Stains Pesticides ELECTRONICS Radios Stereos Televisions Other devices with a cord No Computers
DEBRIS
After a storm, the city will activate its debris removal plan. Residents should place storm-related debris curbside, separated by type: vegetative, construction and demolition, appliances, electronics and household hazardous waste. Regular garbage and recycling will not be collected with storm debris—please follow your normal collection schedule for those items.
CONSTRUCTION & DEMOLITION DEBRIS Building Materials Carpet Drywall Furniture / Mattresses Lumber Plumbing
APPLIANCES & WHITE GOODS Air Conditioners Dishwashers Freezers Refrigerators Stoves Washers / Dryers Water Heaters
VEGETATIVE DEBRIS DO NOT PUT IN BAGS Leaves Logs Plants Tree Branches
SEPARATION
Separate into categories Do not stack or lean Place curbside Do not block the roadway Do not block storm drains Normal trash NOT included Do not place near fire hydrants or under power lines
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/// www.fplmaps.com
Power Restoration Information Power outages can happen during severe weather. Be prepared by having flashlights, extra batteries and a fully charged phone or power bank on hand. AVOID using candles for lighting and keep refrigerators and freezers closed to preserve food. NEVER use generators indoors and stay away from downed power lines. Always report outages to your utility provider and listen to local updates for restoration information.
Restoration times may vary based on the severity of the storm and the extent of damage. To access power outages, visit www.fplmaps.com
Garbage Collection Schedules
Pickup schedules and collection closures vary depending on the severity of the storm and neighborhood impact.
To access schedules, visit DaytonaBeach.gov
/// Hurricane Milton, 2024
Types of assistance available
• Money for hazard mitigation assistance to help eligible homeowners repair or rebuild stronger, more durable homes. • Money for other uninsured or underinsured disaster-caused expenses and serious needs. • Up to $300 in one-time financial assistance to help clean and sanitize primary residences • For critical needs, FEMA’s Serious Needs Assistance can provide an initial payment of up to $770 to cover food, medication, water and other essentials.
• Money for temporary housing while you are unable to live in your home, such as rental assistance or reimbursement for hotel costs. • Money to support repairing or replacing owner-occupied homes that serve as the household’s primary residence, including privately owned access routes, such as driveways, roads or bridges. • A temporary housing unit, if approved for the disaster, when you are not able to use rental assistance due to a lack of available housing resources.
If you have insurance, you must first file a claim with your insurance provider. If you do not have insurance, or your insurance does not fully cover your losses, you may be eligible to apply for assistance from FEMA. Visit FEMA.gov
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ASSISTANCE FOR BUSINESSES The state may choose to activate the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program, making financial support available for businesses impacted by Hurricanes. Florida small-business owners needing assistance, including sole proprietors, can go to www.FloridaJobs.org/EBL to apply for the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program. The program provides short-term, zero-interest loans to small businesses that experienced economic injury or physical damage due to Hurricane Milton. Businesses can apply for these funds to bridge the gap while waiting for other funding, such as insurance.
Avoid Contractor Scams After a Storm After hurricanes, qualified contractors are in high demand—and so are scams. The City of Daytona Beach’s Permits & Licensing division reminds residents to be cautious when hiring workers for repairs. Before hiring anyone, check their license at myfloridalicense.com . The Florida Attorney General’s Office offers these tips: Get Insurance Approval – Have damage evaluated by your Avoid Large Deposits – Don’t pay in full upfront or sign completion forms until work is done. ✓ ✓
insurance company before repairs. Get Multiple Estimates – Aim for three written, itemized quotes. Beware of Scams – Watch for unsolicited offers or “leftover materials” deals. Check References – Look online, ask around and verify licenses and complaints.
Read Contracts Carefully – Make sure you understand cancellation terms and penalties. Protect Against Liens – Request lien releases from all subcontractors before final payment.
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Need help finding a licensed contractor? Visit myfloridalicense.com for a free resource connecting homeowners with licensed professionals in Florida.
STORM PREPAREDNESS GUIDE 2025
CONNECTED stay
MONITOR STORM ALERTS Facebook.com/DBCityInfo Facebook.com/DaytonaBeachEM Instagram.com/CityDaytonaBeach X.com/CityDaytona Nextdoor.com/
Emergency Alerts DaytonaBeach.gov/Alerts
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STORM PREPAREDNESS GUIDE 2025
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