Every year, it seems like hurricane season gets worse and worse. And with the total approximate cost of damages from weather and climate disasters in the U.S. from 1980 to 2020 exceeding $1.875 trillion, the number of homeowners or residents at risk are often left with one very terrifying question—
Where do we go in a hurricane?
For those suffering from home displacement due to hurricanes, it’s necessary to have a plan or access to basic resources. Keep reading for more information Palm Beach County hurricane shelters, and what to expect during an evacuation.
What to Expect at a Hurricane Shelter
Schools and other well-constructed public buildings are often transitioned into shelters during serious weather. Depending on building capacity, you may be amongst a large group of strangers for an extended period of time. Each individual may only have about 20 square feet available to them, so keep your belongings limited.
Because shelters simply provide a secure roof over your head for refuge, don’t expect them to be able to provide food. Shelters don’t tend to offer enough bedding, pillows, or blankets for everyone— if you can, bring your own. Also consider that you will need to keep a close watch on your children, as shelters don’t offer daycare or childcare services.
Also, remember that most shelters are not pet-friendly. You may have to perform additional research to find and pre-register for a special pet-friendly shelter, if necessary.
How to Evacuate Before a Hurricane
If you should need to evacuate, try to find a shelter that is miles away within your Florida county— not hundreds of miles away due to the potential danger of travel during severe weather. We recommend gathering items such as:
- Portable chairs
- Food
- Blankets
- Prescription medicine
- Cards and board games or other entertainment (especially for children)
Proof of residency may be required, so be sure to bring all of your personal identification details or something that includes your address.
Palm Beach County Hurricane Shelters
Most hurricane shelters are temporary and open just for hurricane season— typically June through November. General population Palm beach county hurricane shelters usually include:
- Forest Hill High School, 6901 Parker Ave., West Palm Beach
- Atlantic Community High School, 2455 West Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach
- Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Elementary School, 1501 Avenue U, Riviera Beach
- Independence Middle School, 4001 Greenway Drive, Jupiter
- Lakeshore Middle School, 425 W Canal St. N, Belle Glade
- Pahokee Middle School, 850 Larrimore Road, Pahokee
- Palm Beach Gardens High School, 4245 Holly Drive, Palm Beach Gardens
- Palm Beach Central High School, 8499 Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington
- Park Vista High School, 7900 Jog Road, Lake Worth
This list is subject to change, so be sure to verify the availability of each shelter prior to choosing your evacuation destination. You can typically verify current shelter information via local TV and radio broadcasts.
More Florida Tips
It’s important to remember that hurricane preparation is about more than just Palm Beach County hurricane shelters. It also involves removing trees that could damage your home in a storm, and anticipating the elements.
When it comes to hurricane season, the ECO Tree Experts know how to prepare. Request a free estimate and start prepping for hurricane season before it begins.