In-depth Hurricane Information

Baynews9.com is your source for exclusive tropical weather updates, evacuation routes and shelters, storm preparation checklists and much more.

Access:

Tracking tools
Hurricane shelters and checklist
Hurricane questions
What to do after the hurricane has passed
Hurricane memories
Hurricane history
Hurricane Expos

Hurricane Season 2008: Getting you Ready!

Join Bay News 9 Chief Meteorologist Mike Clay as he gives you tips and tools to prepare your family and your home for this upcoming hurricane season. This special presentation is only on Bay News 9!

Now available on Bay News 9 On Demand, Channel 342

Keep a close eye on the areas where hurricanes form with our satellite views.

Tampa Bay Hurricane Guide Bay News 9 and The St. Petersburg Times are teaming up to provide you with a comprehensive hurricane guide and hurricane tracking map.

You can pick up your free copy of the tracking map at Publix stores in Citrus, Hernando, Hillsborough, Manatee, Pasco and Pinellas counties.

The tracking map and guides are available at select St. Petersburg Times office locations.

You can also pick up the guide and tracking maps at all Bright House Networks Demonstration Centers.

Available while supplies last

Select your county to find out your evacuation level. (Polk County has no evacuation zones.)

Keep track of the 2008 hurricane season, which runs through November 30.

Get answers to your hurricane questions from the Bay News 9 Weather Experts.

This information will help you decide what to do and where to go when a major storm approaches your county.

You can see what hurricane shelters are closest to you and a ch ecklist of items you'll need to have handy if a hurricane hits.

The Red Cross helps you prepare
Evacuation and planning tips for the elderly and infirmed
Information on what to do with your pets before a storm

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Shelter is Golden may help you find a place to stay or connect you to someone who needs a place to stay during a hurricane.

The moments after a hurricane can be uncertain if not frantic. But there are things you can do to keep you and your family as safe as possible.

Use a radio or weather radio to get information.
Use flashlights and avoid candles.
If you have evacuated, only return when notified that it is safe to do so.
Avoid floodwaters, especially when driving.
Watch for downed power lines
Report safety hazards to authorities if possible.
Beware of spoiled and contaminated food and water.

Although the first concern should be safety, it is important to be aware of the need to act promptly when filing claims for damages inflicted to your property by a hurricane.

Have your policy number available.
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible.
Make a list of damages, photos help.
Fill out claim forms from insurance company and return them promptly.
Be sure you understand the claim process, if you are unfamiliar ask for a full explanation.
Contact your insurance company before an emergency to see if you are prepared if a disaster should occur.

More tips for what to do after a hurricane

Hurricane Memories

The Bay News 9 Weather Experts recall some of their experiences covering noteworthy natural disasters.

We want to hear from you. Join our discussion board and share your hurricane memories.

Hurricane tips, preparing your home, forecasting tools, and much more at your convenience
Tune in to channel 342 on Bright House Networks digital cable
Select the "Hurricane" category