“It only takes one storm to change your life and your community.”
— National Hurricane Center
In 2024, Florida saw 19 named storms, and while Sarasota and Manatee counties were spared the worst, everyone knew it could’ve been different.
Related Page: Personal Loans For Hurricane Preparedness
Now, as we enter the 2025 hurricane season—which officially runs from June 1 to November 30—local governments, emergency services, and residents are stepping up their game. From updated evacuation zones to smarter sandbag distribution, the region is preparing with a blend of old-school readiness and new technology.
So what’s different this year? What should you be doing now—not just when the storm is already spinning in the Gulf?
This post breaks it down.
No fluff. No panic. Just clear, local, and incredibly practical information.
Let’s get you storm-ready—Sarasota-Manatee style.
The Colorado State University forecast calls for another above-average season, with:
Warmer ocean temperatures and a shift in atmospheric conditions post-El Niño are creating a more active environment in the Atlantic. For residents of Florida’s Gulf Coast, this means staying informed, prepared, and proactive.
Both Sarasota County Emergency Management and the Manatee County Emergency Operations Center have already launched public outreach campaigns and updated their storm response plans.
This year, both counties updated their evacuation zones using new flood risk data and road capacity assessments.
Check your zone in Sarasota Florida
Use the interactive map or search your address.
Check your zone in Manatee County
Action step: Look up your zone. Write it down. Know where you’re going before the order comes.
Let’s be honest. Sandbag pickup in past years? A mess. Long lines. Frustrated residents. This year, counties are taking a smarter approach.
Tip: Bring gloves and a sturdy small shovel.
Real-time updates will be available on mymanatee.org and social media.
Flooding remains the #1 cause of hurricane-related property damage—not wind.
Thanks to FEMA’s updated maps and local hydrology studies, flood zones in 2025 now include:
Remember: There’s a 30-day waiting period on most flood insurance.
When the order to evacuate comes, know where to go. Sarasota and Manatee have increased shelter capacity and added new pet-friendly and medically-dependent shelters.
Local Info: Shelters don’t provide food for pets—bring enough for 72 hours, plus leashes and crates.
The fastest way to get official, accurate, and local storm info? Emergency text and phone alerts.
Pro tip: Add these numbers to your phone now so you don’t ignore the call during the storm.
Sarasota-Manatee has dozens of retirement communities, mobile home parks, and HOA-run subdivisions—many in flood-prone or high-wind areas.
Check with your HOA or property manager to see what storm prep policies are in place—and whether you're on any emergency call lists.
Skip the bottled water panic and long generator lines. Here’s what local emergency planners actually recommend:
Avoid: candles (fire hazard), overly frozen meats (they spoil fast in outages), or relying on ATM cash (local banks often go online-only temporarily).
In 2025, Florida homeowners insurance has continued to climb, but many local agents are finding workarounds with:
Don’t wait until June. Some policies may take 15–30 days to bind or renew.
When disaster hits, Sarasota and Manatee’s community response shines.
The calm before the storm is when the real preparation happens.
Sarasota and Manatee leaders have improved the tools. They’ve expanded resources. They’re keeping the public informed.
Now it’s your turn to do the same.
✅ Know your zone
✅ Build your kit
✅ Review your insurance
✅ Share this post with a neighbor who may need a hand
It only takes one storm—but it also only takes one plan to protect everything that matters.