Sarasota County, FL
Home MenuWhat’s My Risk?
HURRICANES
Hurricanes are rated on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale from Category 1 to Category 5, based on their sustained wind speed. The scale estimates potential property damage. Hurricanes of Category 3 or higher are considered major because of their potential for significant loss of life and damage. Category 1 and 2 are still dangerous and require preventive measures. Do NOT make evacuation decisions based on a storm category. This scale does not reflect potential for storm surge. Category 1 and 2 storms often bring dangerous storm surge. Listen to officials and heed evacuation notices. Hurricane Season is from June 1 - Nov. 30. The height of hurricane season is August - October. During the historic 2024 hurricane season, all three storms that impacted Sarasota County arrived during this peak.
| Category | Sustained Winds (MPH) | Damage |
| 1 | 74 - 95 | Very dangerous winds will produce some damage. |
| 2 | 96 - 110 | Extremely dangerous winds will cause extensive damage. |
| 3 (Major) | 111 - 129 | Devastating damage will occur. |
| 4 (Major) | 130 - 156 | Catastrophic damage will occur. |
| 5 (Major) | 157 or higher | Catastrophic damage will occur. |
FLOODING
Hurricanes are not just a coastal emergency, flooding can occur far inland. If flooding threatens, get to higher ground. Stay away from flood-prone areas, including low spots and ditches. Take dry clothing, a flashlight and a portable radio with you. 2. TURN AROUND, DON’T DROWN. Avoid flooded areas or those with rapid water flow. Do not attempt to cross a flowing stream or drive in water. The depth is not always obvious. It takes only six inches of fast flowing water to sweep you off your feet, and two feet of water can carry away most vehicles. 3. Do not allow children to play in or near high water, storm drains or ditches. Flood waters may be contaminated with oil, gasoline or raw sewage.
It takes only two feet of water to carry most cars off the ground. Make sure your car is not one of them.
LIGHTNING/THUNDERSTORMS
IF THUNDER ROARS, GO INDOORS.
- Find a safe place to take cover inside a home or business, a restroom in a park, or a shelter on a beach. Stay inside for at least 30 minutes after thunder stops.
- Do not use trees for cover.
- Do not lie down in an open area.
- Stay away from bodies of water.
TORNADOES
- Purchase a NOAA weather radio and/or a battery-powered commercial radio and extra batteries.
- Know the terms used to describe tornado threats:
a. Tornado Watch
Remain alert for approaching storms. Tornadoes are possible.
b. Tornado Warning
Take shelter immediately. A tornado has been sighted or indicated by a weather radar. - If a tornado threatens, seek shelter in a small, windowless interior room or hallway on the lowest level of a sturdy building.
- Mobile homes are not safe during tornadoes.
Abandon mobile homes and go to the nearest sturdy building immediately.
For more information, visit the National Weather Service website.
WILDFIRE
Fire season is year-round in Florida, which is also the lightning capital of the United States. Underlying dry conditions along with high temperatures and thunderstorms have the potential to spark wildfires. However, lightning is not the only cause of wildfires in the state. Humans are the leading cause of wildfires in Florida, according to the Florida Forest Service. There are many tools that can help reduce the chances of a catastrophic wildfire, including creating defensible space around your home, safely burning yard waste, utilizing prescribed burning, and reporting a potential wildfire or suspicious arson activity.
Be wildfire ready - Protect your life, home and community. Learn more about preparing for wildfires here.