Fill the fuel tank as soon as a storm watch is issued — gas stations routinely run dry or lose power within 24-48 hours of a hurricane warning. Move the vehicle to the highest available ground away from trees and flood-prone areas, photograph it for insurance records, and pack a basic emergency kit (water, flashlight, phone charger, first-aid kit, cash) if evacuation is possible. Confirm comprehensive coverage is active on your policy, since flood and wind damage are typically excluded from liability-only or collision-only plans.
At a glance
| Prep step | Timing |
|---|---|
| Fill fuel tank | As soon as a watch/warning is issued |
| Move car to higher ground | 24-48 hours before landfall |
| Photograph vehicle for insurance | Before the storm |
| Pack emergency kit | Before evacuating or sheltering |
| Confirm comprehensive coverage active | Before storm season starts |
Fuel first, always
As soon as a hurricane watch or warning is issued for your area, fill the tank completely. Gas stations frequently lose power or run out of fuel within a day or two of a warning as evacuation traffic surges, and a full tank also acts as reserve power for your car's electrical system and a heat/cooling source if you need to shelter in the vehicle temporarily.
Where to park matters more than most people think
If evacuation isn't required, move the vehicle to the highest practical ground on the property, away from large trees, power lines, and anything that could become a projectile in high wind. Garages offer the best protection from wind-driven debris and hail, but a garaged car in a flood-prone area should still be moved to higher ground if flooding is the bigger risk in your location.
- Avoid parking under trees, especially older or weaker ones likely to drop limbs.
- Avoid low-lying areas, drainage paths, and anywhere that's flooded in past storms.
- If garaging, make sure the garage door is secured — wind can pop open a garage door and depressurize the space.
Documentation before the storm
Take dated photos or video of the vehicle from all angles, including the odometer and VIN, before the storm arrives. This creates a clear "before" record that speeds up any insurance claim if the car is damaged, and helps counter disputes about pre-existing damage.
Insurance coverage check
Standard liability-only auto insurance does not cover storm, wind, or flood damage to your own vehicle. Only comprehensive coverage typically covers these — confirm your policy includes it well before hurricane season, since insurers often stop writing new comprehensive policies once a storm is named and approaching.
If you're evacuating
- Fill the tank and check tire pressure and tread before a long evacuation drive.
- Pack an emergency kit: water, non-perishable snacks, flashlight, phone charger/power bank, first-aid kit, medications, cash, and copies of important documents.
- Leave early — evacuation routes clog quickly and running low on fuel in stopped traffic is a common and preventable problem.
- Bring the vehicle registration and insurance card; you may need them at checkpoints or when re-entering an evacuated area.
After the storm passes
Don't attempt to drive through standing water or storm debris to get an early look at your property — downed power lines and hidden debris under water are genuine hazards. Once it's safe, inspect the car for water intrusion, debris damage, and check the battery and electrical systems before starting it if there's any sign it was submerged.
Frequently asked questions
Should I leave my car in the garage or move it during a hurricane?
Does car insurance cover hurricane damage?
How full should my tank be before a hurricane?
Is it safe to drive through hurricane floodwater to check on my house?
What should I photograph before a storm for insurance purposes?
Sources & further reading
- FEMA — Hurricane Preparedness
- National Hurricane Center (NOAA)
- III (Insurance Information Institute) — Flood and Storm Coverage
Figures, prices and policy details were current at the last-updated date above. Automotive pricing, incentives and regulations change frequently — verify time-sensitive details with the linked primary sources. Read our editorial policy and fact-checking standards.
