Storm FAQs

When can I apply for FEMA assistance after a disaster?

FEMA assistance becomes available only after the President approves a federal disaster declaration for your area. Once the declaration is made, FEMA will announce the start of the application period. This is typically within days of the disaster.

How do I apply for FEMA assistance?

Online: Visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov.

Phone: Call FEMA's toll-free helpline at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 1-800-462-7585 for individuals with hearing impairments.

FEMA App: Download and apply through the
FEMA app on your smartphone.

In-Person: Visit a FEMA Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in your area, if available.

There is a limited window to apply for assistance, typically 60 days from the date the disaster was declared.

What should I do about electric vehicles during a hurricane or flooding from a storm?

Before the Storm: Fully charge your EV ahead of the storm in case of power outages. If possible, avoid letting the battery fall below 50% charge before the storm arrives.
Take the vehicle with you if you are evacuating.
Park on high ground to avoid potential flooding. Store the EV covered structure away from buildings, if possible, to protect it from flying debris and high winds.
Once fully charged, unplug your EV from its charging station to prevent damage from power surges or electrical flooding.
Keep your EV’s emergency kit updated, including portable chargers, cables, and adapters.
During the Storm: Avoid Driving Through Floodwater; Water levels above the bottom of the EV’s chassis can damage electrical components; Driving through saltwater (common in coastal flooding) can cause severe corrosion.
After The Storm: Check the vehicle for signs of flooding, such as water inside the cabin or under the hood. Avoid powering on the vehicle if it appears waterlogged.
If the vehicle has been exposed to water, do not attempt to charge it until it has been inspected by a qualified technician.
If the vehicle was submerged or exposed to significant water, have it professionally inspected for safety and potential damage. If your EV sustained flood damage, document the condition with photos and contact your insurance provider. EV batteries are designed with waterproofing but prolonged exposure to water can lead to dangerous chemical reactions, including thermal runaway (fire risk).

How do I know when I should evacuate?

Determine your evacuation level: Visit the Manatee County evacuation zone map online at mymanatee.org/level or use the Florida Division of Emergency Management’s “Know Your Zone” tool. Zones are based on your location's vulnerability to storm surge, labeled A through E, with Zone A being the most at risk.
Monitor Local Alerts and Warnings: Stay tuned to official sources such as: Manatee County website, social media accounts, and local news stations and NOAA Weather Radio.
Be aware of your flood zone: Evacuation zones differ from FEMA flood zones. Your flood zone determines flood risk, while your evacuation zone addresses storm surge risk.
Mandatory evacuations: If your evacuation zone is ordered to evacuate, leave immediately to ensure your safety.
Voluntary evacuations: You may want to leave early, especially if you are in a vulnerable location, have special needs, or prefer not to wait for a mandatory order.
Prepare in Advance: Familiarize yourself with designated evacuation routes in Manatee County. Identify a shelter, hotel, or out-of-town location in advance. Consider options for pets, as not all shelters are pet friendly.

How do I know what shelters are available for evacuation?

Call 311 for up-to-date information on available shelters, their locations, and their status.
Visit Manatee County Emergency Management for updated shelter information.

What should I include in my emergency kit?

Essentials:

Water: At least one gallon per person per day for three days.
Food: Non-perishable items like canned goods, protein bars, dried fruits, and nuts (enough for three days per person). Include a manual can opener.
First Aid Kit: Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, medications (prescription and over the counter), and any personal medical supplies.
Flashlight: With extra batteries.
Multi-Tool or Swiss Army Knife: For various utility purposes.

Important Documents: ID’s passport, etc. Insurance documents, medical records, emergency contact lists, evacuation maps.

Personal Items: Change of clothes, shoes, rain gear, blankets, hygiene items, glasses or contacts (with solution)

Specialty items for babies

Cash

Books, games, entertainment

What should I include for my pets?

Food: At least a three-day supply of pet food (dry or canned). Include a manual can opener if needed.
Water: One gallon of water per pet per day for drinking and sanitation.
Bowls: Collapsible or sturdy bowls for food and water
ID Tags: Ensure your pet has an up-to-date ID tag on their collar.
Leash, Harness, and/or Carrier: Comfortable and secure for transportation. Carriers should be labeled with your contact information.
Photos of Your Pet: Current photos with you in the picture for identification purposes if you are separated.
Vaccination Records: Proof of vaccinations and medical history in a waterproof bag.
Microchip Information: Ensure it’s up to date with your current contact details.
Medications: A week’s supply of any necessary medications and instructions for administering them.
First Aid Kit: Bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and any pet-specific supplies like styptic powder for minor injuries.
Waste Bags: Plastic bags or a small scoop for cleaning up waste.
Litter and Litter Box: For cats, include a portable litter box and litter
Blanket or Bed: A familiar item to help reduce stress.
Toys: A favorite toy or chew to provide comfort and keep your pet entertained
Muzzle: For dogs that may become stressed or agitated
Protective Gear: Booties or paw protectors if the terrain is hazardous.
Tarp or Tent: A small tarp to create shade or protection.
Portable Crate or Kennel: For temporary housing if shelters do not allow pets to roam freely.

Where can I go if I require special needs assistance?

A Special Needs shelter will be available for residents who require assistance.

Registration

Can I stay at home during a hurricane?

Only if you live outside an evacuation zone and your home is structurally sound. Those in mobile homes, RV’s or low-lying areas should evacuate.

How do I know when it is safe to return home?

Wait for official announcements form Manatee County and inspect for hazards like downed power lines and flooding.

What should I do if I encounter flooded roads?

Do not drive through flooded areas. Turn around, and seek alternative routes.