Hillsborough County Urges Businesses to Prepare for Tropical Storm Idalia

Hillsborough County is urging businesses to prepare for Tropical Storm Idalia. Now is the time to review Business Continuity Plans to ensure the safety of employees and property.

During a disaster, safety is the main concern. Businesses should confirm that all employees are aware of their hurricane preparedness plan and their individual responsibilities. It is also important that businesses monitor relevant emergency management news for weather and safety updates.

Businesses are advised to document their property. Photographs and inventory lists should be compiled prior to the storm. If necessary, these can be used as insurance evidence for damage assessments after the storm.

When an evacuation is ordered, businesses owners should secure their businesses and follow instructions by local emergency management on evacuation orders. Remember, if your local emergency management officials order an evacuation and you decide to remain in your business, emergency responders will not be able to respond to you during the disaster. You and your employees will be on your own until the storm passes and first responders are able to secure the area.

For more information and questions on storm-related concerns or the needs of the business community, contact ESF18@EM.MyFlorida.com or call the Private Sector Hotline at (850) 815-4925.

Register your business at FloridaDisaster.org, the State of Florida’s online clearinghouse that includes information that the private and public sectors can use before, during, and after disasters. Once registered, businesses can report their status, complete a business damage assessment, and offer or request resources.

Get Connected. Stay Alert. 
For more information on Hillsborough County’s response to Tropical Storm Idalia, visit HCFLGov.net/StaySafe and sign up for the HCFL Alert system. Additionally, you can follow Hillsborough County on social media at Facebook; X, formerly known as Twitter; and Nextdoor for updates.  

Residents without digital access are encouraged to call 833-HC-STORM or 833-427-8676, the County's storm information line, for information on Tropical Storm Idalia or visit HCFLGov.net/StaySafe.