Hurricane season is part of life in Pompano Beach. The real question is how ready you are when watches and warnings pop up. Whether you own a waterfront condo or a single‑family home, you want a simple, local plan that protects your property and your peace of mind. This guide gives you a clear checklist, Pompano‑specific evacuation rules, and the right contacts so you can act quickly and safely. Let’s dive in.
Know your local risks
Pompano Beach faces storm surge, tidal flooding, heavy rain, and high winds. The City reports that over 32% of buildings sit in FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas, and flood maps were updated in 2024. Review your address and understand how updated zones could affect insurance and preparedness. You can learn more on the City’s flood information page and check for updates as they are posted (City of Pompano Beach flood information).
Evacuation zones and shelters
Pompano Beach uses storm strength to set evacuations. For Category 1–2 storms, areas east of the Intracoastal Waterway and all mobile home parks must evacuate. For Category 3 or higher, areas east of US‑1 and all mobile home parks must evacuate. Review the City’s map and plan where you will go before a storm arrives (Evacuation zones and shelters).
Broward County opens shelters as needed and operates an emergency hotline at 311 or 954‑831‑4000. Some shelters accommodate pets if you bring vaccination records. Check shelter status as a storm approaches (Broward County shelters).
For alerts, sign up for CodeRED and City notifications so you receive local orders quickly. Residents who may need help evacuating can join the Vulnerable Population Registry (Pompano Beach Emergency Management).
When to prepare
Hurricane season runs June 1 to November 30. Plan to be self‑sufficient for at least 72 hours after a major storm since emergency services may take time to reach every neighborhood. Do yard work, secure contractors, and restock supplies early in the season so you are not competing for help at the last minute (City emergency guidance).
Your hurricane prep checklist
Outside your home
- Inspect your roof for loose shingles or tiles and fix small issues early. Consider a professional roof check if it has been a while.
- Install or service impact‑rated protection on all openings. In Broward’s High‑Velocity Hurricane Zone, use impact windows or shutters with proper Florida Product Approvals or NOA and follow manufacturer instructions (Florida Hurricane Retrofit guidance).
- Secure or store outdoor furniture, grills, planters, boats, and play equipment. Trim dead or overhanging branches well before warnings are issued.
- Reduce flood risk where you can. Elevate A/C condensers and critical utilities, maintain flood vents if present, and know your property’s elevation.
Inside your home and systems
- Label your water, gas, and main breaker shut‑offs. If you use a generator, keep it outside and away from doors, windows, and vents, use proper cords, and install battery‑backed CO alarms. Generator misuse is a leading post‑storm hazard (generator safety reminder).
- Add surge protection for critical appliances. Back up important data and charge power banks.
- Store water and hygiene supplies. If the City issues a boil‑water notice, follow instructions until testing confirms the water is safe (Pompano Beach boil‑water updates).
Family plan, supplies and documents
- Build a 3‑day minimum emergency kit. Include water at 1 gallon per person per day, nonperishable food, a flashlight, batteries, a battery or crank radio, first aid, medications, chargers, cash, and pet supplies (FEMA supply list).
- Secure documents. Keep copies of insurance policies, IDs, deeds, and medical records in a waterproof folder and in a cloud folder. Photograph your home’s interior and exterior.
- Plan evacuation routes and a meeting place. Keep fuel in your vehicles during the season. Sign up for CodeRED and City alerts, and add your household to the Vulnerable Population Registry if needed (Pompano Beach Emergency Management).
Condo and high‑rise owners
- Know who handles what. Under Florida condominium law, associations generally cover common elements, roofs, structural parts, and shared systems, while unit owners cover interior finishes and contents. Confirm your association’s hurricane plan, insurance, and shutter policy (Florida Statutes Chapter 718).
- Ask the manager about pre‑approved vendors and emergency contracts. Ensure elevator, generator, and roof maintenance is current.
- Clear balconies and secure patio items before winds rise. Confirm parking and elevator procedures during an outage.
Renters
- Get renter’s insurance to protect your belongings; landlord policies usually do not cover your contents. Flood insurance is separate from standard policies and may be available for renters.
- Confirm your evacuation zone and shelter options. Keep copies of your lease and important documents in your go‑bag.
Insurance and permits
- Standard home insurance often covers wind but not flood. Flood damage from rising water requires a separate policy. There is usually a 30‑day waiting period for NFIP policies, so buy early. The City recommends flood insurance even outside mapped high‑risk zones.
- Ask your insurer about wind mitigation credits for impact windows, roof straps, and reinforced garage doors. Florida’s My Safe Florida Home program has offered grants for qualifying upgrades; check current availability with your agent.
- In Broward’s HVHZ, replacement windows, doors, shutters, and major roof work typically require permits and approved products. Plan upgrades well before the season and follow product approvals and installation instructions (impact protection standards).
If a storm hits
Safety first
- Avoid floodwater. Do not walk or drive through it since it can hide debris and energized lines.
- Treat any downed line as live. Report hazards to FPL at 1‑800‑4OUTAGE and follow official updates on restoration (FPL Storm Center).
- Keep generators outside and away from air intakes. Monitor everyone for signs of carbon monoxide exposure.
Report damage and start claims
- Document damage with photos and video before moving debris. Make only temporary repairs needed to prevent further damage and save receipts.
- Report significant damage to Broward County via 311 or 954‑831‑4000, and contact your insurer promptly to open a claim.
- If a federal disaster is declared, you may be able to apply for FEMA assistance or SBA disaster loans. Watch County and City channels for local recovery center openings.
Utilities and water
- Follow City boil‑water notices and only stop boiling when the City clears the advisory. Use bottled water for drinking and cooking until then (boil‑water notices).
- Unplug sensitive electronics until power is stable to protect against surges.
Quick timelines
Today or this week
- Check your evacuation zone and shelter options.
- Service shutters or confirm impact protection. Book tree trimming.
- Build or refresh your 3‑day kit and refill prescriptions.
72–48 hours before arrival
- Top off gas, charge power banks, and test flashlights.
- Bring in outdoor items and set refrigerators to a colder setting.
- Confirm your evacuation plan and pet arrangements.
24 hours before arrival
- Install shutters or lock impact windows. Park cars on high ground.
- Fill bathtubs for sanitation if advised by officials.
- Move valuables and documents to higher shelves.
After the storm
- Stay off roads and out of floodwater. Check on neighbors who may need help.
- Photograph damage before cleanup and report power issues to FPL.
- Follow City updates for water safety and debris pickup schedules.
Ready to create a property plan tailored to your Pompano Beach home or condo? Reach out to the coastal specialists at Tatsiana Tobina‑Fotiou LLC for local guidance before, during, and after the season.
FAQs
How do I find my Pompano Beach evacuation zone?
- Use the City’s evacuation map to locate your address and see if your area evacuates for Category 1–2 or Category 3+ storms, then plan your route and destination.
Do I need flood insurance if I am not in a high‑risk zone?
- Yes, consider it. The City notes the whole community is potentially flood prone, and standard homeowners policies do not cover flood from rising water.
Are Broward County shelters pet friendly?
- Some are. Check Broward’s shelter list as storms approach and bring vaccination records, carriers, and pet supplies.
What window or shutter standards apply in Pompano Beach?
- Broward is in the High‑Velocity Hurricane Zone, so use impact‑rated products with Florida Product Approvals or NOA and follow manufacturer installation instructions.
What should condo owners ask their association before a storm?
- Confirm who secures common areas, how shutters are handled, maintenance status for elevators and generators, emergency contacts, and what interior prep owners must do.
How do I report a power outage after a hurricane?
- Treat downed lines as live and call FPL at 1‑800‑4OUTAGE. Track restoration and safety guidance on FPL’s official storm channels.
