Hurricane Preparedness Week: May 4 –10th, 2025

Hurricane Preparedness Week is an opportunity for Prince William County residents to take proactive steps to prepare for the upcoming hurricane season. While only a small portion of the county is vulnerable to storm surge, our entire region is vulnerable to the inland impacts of hurricanes and tropical storms, including heavy rainfall, flooding, high winds, and extended power outages.

To ensure your safety and the safety of those around you, we encourage all residents to take the following steps:

• Understand Your Risk: Hurricanes can affect our area in a variety of ways. Learn about local hazards such as inland flooding, downed trees, and storm-related power loss.
• Develop an Emergency Plan: Update and practice your emergency plan regularly. Consider the needs of your family, including pets and individuals with access or functional needs.
• Assemble an Emergency Kit: Include at least three days’ worth of food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, hygiene items, important documents, and other essentials.
• Stay Connected: Sign up for PWC Alerts and follow official channels such as the National Weather Service and Prince William County Government for updates.
• Prepare Your Property: Secure loose outdoor items, clean gutters and drains, and inspect your home for areas that could be reinforced before a storm hits.
• Consider Flood Insurance: Just 1 inch of water inside your home can cause $25,000 in damage, and most residential homeowner’s and renter’s insurance policies do not cover the cost of flood-related damage!  There is a 30-day waiting period for new policies before coverage takes effect.  Learn more on our Flood Safety Page. 
• Take Action TODAY: Begin pre-season preparations now. Make sure you understand how to interpret forecasts and alerts, and know what to do before, during, and after a storm. Even if you feel ready, there may be additional things you could do or learn.

Prince William County Emergency Management is committed to keeping our community safe and informed. Now is the time to take action. Do not wait until a storm is approaching—prepare today.

For more information and resources, visit pwcva.gov/ready.