Hurricane Information

Hurricanes are massive storm systems that form over warm ocean waters and move toward land. Potential threats from hurricanes include powerful winds, heavy rainfall, storm surges, coastal and inland flooding, rip currents, tornadoes, and landslides. The hurricane season begins June 1 and continues through November 30.

HURRICANE / DISASTER PLANNING

The official Disaster Planning Guide for the Tampa Bay Area includes preparedness information for hurricanes and other disasters as well as evacuation maps and other useful information. You can download a copy of the Disaster Planning Guide or pick up a printed copy at the Temple Terrace Public Library.

According to the National Weather Service, the best time to prepare for a hurricane is BEFORE hurricane season begins. Here is a basic checklist:

•  Put Together an Emergency Kit

Put together a basic emergency kit. Prepare to survive on your own for at least three days. Assemble a disaster supplies kit. Include a battery-powered radio, flashlights, extra batteries, a first-aid kit, blankets, clothing and food and water. Check emergency equipment, such as flashlights, generators and storm shutters. 

•  Write or review your Family Emergency Plan

Before an emergency happens, sit down with your family or close friends and decide how you will get in contact with each other, where you will go, and what you will do in an emergency. Keep a copy of this plan in your emergency supplies kit or another safe place where you can access it in the event of a disaster. 

•  Review Your Insurance Policies

Review your insurance policies to ensure that you have adequate coverage for your home and personal property.

Get more information about hurricanes and tips on preparation from the Department of Homeland Security.

If you suffer from or care for someone with a chronic illness, consider these additional preparedness tips, from the USC Department of Nursing:

•  Maintain a 10-day supply of all necessary medications.

•  Wear a bracelet that helps first responders identify an individual with a chronic condition or specific care requirement.

•  Have devices at home that monitor vital signs and changes in physical health.

•  Ensure family members and close neighbors know how to administer care.

•  Organize communication with family members in the event of lost power.

•  Create an updated list of emergency phone numbers for providers and medical facilities, and keep the list somewhere accessible.

WHEN A STORM THREATENS

Get weather forecasts and the latest updates on any storms that might threaten our area from the National Hurricane Center. 

Sandbags

The City will make sandbags available to City residents when conditions warrant at the Sports Complex located at 10369 US Highway 301. Sandbags from this distribution point are reserved for residents of Temple Terrace who must show a valid ID or recent utility bill that includes a Temple Terrace address. The station will be self-service with bags, shovels and sand provided. Assistance is available for the elderly or persons with disabilities. There is a limit of 10 sandbags per vehicle.

Unused sandbags should be saved for the duration of the current Hurricane season.  Do not save them for next season. The bags are not designed for long-term use, and they will deteriorate over time. You can dispose of sandbags by dumping the sand in your yard (not in a drain) and throwing the empty bag in the trash.

Alerts

The City of Temple Terrace uses Alert Temple Terrace, powered by Everbridge, to communicate with citizens and businesses during emergencies and other critical events. Residents and businesses are encouraged to register to receive these alerts. Go to Alert Temple Terrace to  register to receive alerts based on your preferred contact paths — email, cell/home phone, SMS (text), Push Notification, TTY/TDD and more.

Residents also can follow the City on Facebook or check this page for the most recent emergency information.

Evacuation Zones

Check this map to see in which evacuation zone (if any) you reside.

Shelters

Emergency Shelters

In the event of an emergency, Hillsborough County has emergency shelters for residents and visitors. Shelters are a last resort, and should be used only if you have no other options for evacuation. Residents are encouraged to evacuate with friends or family to a safe area. More information about emergency shelters, including the location of pet-friendly shelters, in Hillsborough County can be found on the Emergency Management page of County's website. DO NOT go to a shelter unless officials have announced that it is open.

Transportation
HART provides free emergency evacuation bus services for people who need transportation to shelters. Find out the routes and make plans before an emergency arises.

Special Needs Shelters

Hillsborough County has three Special Needs Shelters. It is important to register for these shelters in advance of a storm using this Application form. Registration can be completed at any time throughout the year, but processing will be suspended when a storm is approaching.  Individuals who have not registered in advance will be evaluated on site.

Supplies 
Supplies available at the special needs shelters include medical cots, linens, blankets, and pillows. Oxygen will be available as well as generator power. General and medical staff will be available to assist the client and the client's caregiver.

Shelter space 
The shelter will be an open and shared space. We ask for clients to bring one bag only (not including medical equipment/supplies) as space will be limited. Remember, shelters are a last resort of evacuation.

Pets
Only registered service animals may accompany registrants in the shelter. Pets will be kept kenneled in a separate room where they will be monitored by staff and owners may visit and care for them. It is the responsibility of the owner to bring their pet’s kennel, food, and supplies. 

Transportation
Transportation assistance is available. If a client requires transportation assistance, they should indicate so on the evaluation form when asked if they need a ride to the shelter.