Plan, Prepare and Stay Informed for 2026 Hurricane Season

Published on April 30, 2026

Satellite image of a hurricane off the east coast.

In observance of Hurricane Preparedness Week from May 3-9, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Storm Water Services and Charlotte-Mecklenburg Emergency Management are encouraging residents to take steps to protect themselves, their families and property during the upcoming hurricane season. Between June 1 and November 30 this year, researchers expect six to nine hurricanes, with the possibility of two to three becoming major hurricanes. During these storms, flooding is our area's biggest risk. Here's how to plan, prepare and stay informed: 

  1. Know your risk: Find out if your home is in the floodplain by using the 3D Flood Zone Map. Consider purchasing flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program, as traditional homeowners and renters policies do not cover flooding. Did You Know: Just six inches of fast-moving water can knock a person off their feet, and a foot of rushing water is powerful enough to move a car. Plus, the current dry conditions in our area could also increase the risk of localized flooding, as water is likely to bead up on hard soil and run off during sudden heavy rainfall.
  2. Make a plan: Know where to go if you need to evacuate, and make sure your entire household knows the plan. If you have pets, consider them in your plan. Before a storm, clear storm drains and gutters, and secure outdoor furniture or ornamentals (flags, potted plants, etc.).
  3. Stay informed: Sign up for CharMeck Alerts to receive timely and accurate emergency information. Stay tuned to local media and the National Weather Service for reliable updates.

Learn more about hurricane preparedness and flood safety on the Storm Water Services "Flood Preparedness and Mitigation" web page.

Related Links

calendar icon Learn More at Storm Water Services

Tagged as:
Back to top