Emergency Preparedness

The CILNCF provides information and planning assistance to help our consumers prepare for emergencies. We also work with organizations and emergency preparedness officials to help educate and train personnel for how best to assist people with disabilities in the event of emergencies, accommodations at shelters, etc.

Hurricane Preparedness

We have compiled some helpful information, links, and phone numbers regarding hurricane preparedness for people with disabilities. Information includes locating special needs shelters; tips for preparing, responding, and recovering from hurricanes; how to track hurricanes; emergency supply information; etc. Find that information here »

Hurricane Season: Typically from June 1st to November 30th

The most active months of hurricane season are August through October with the peak of the season occurring September 10th. Forecasters are already predicting a very active Atlantic hurricane season.

Category 1: Dangerous winds that will produce some property damage. Sustained Winds: 74-95 mph

Category 2: Extremely dangerous winds will likely cause extensive damage. Sustained Winds: 96-110mph

Category 3: Serious damage will occur. Sustained Winds: 111-129 mph

Category 4: Catastrophic damage will likely occur. Sustained Winds: 130-156 mph

Category 5: Total devastation. Sustained Winds: 157 mph+

2026 Hurricane Names: Arthur, Bertha, Cristobal, Dolly, Edouard, Fay, Gonzalo, Hanna, Isaias, Josephine, Kyle, Leah, Marco, Nana, Omar, Paulette, Rene, Sally, Teddy, Vicky, Wilfred

State of Florida Emergency Contacts by County (opens in new tab)
Emergency Supply Fact Sheet
Preparedness Calendar Planning Tool

Emergency Preparedness Expos

Join us for a community event focused on helping people with disabilities prepare for emergencies that may happen in our area. Local organizations, agencies, and vendors will share resources and information on what to do before, during, and after an emergency, with services that support safety and independence.

These FREE events include a variety of vendors and speakers to help prepare people with disabilities in our community for any type of emergency.

Dates for 2026 Expos:

1. Alachua Co – Gainesville March 12, 2026
2. Marion Co – Ocala – March 24, 2026 
3. Putnam Co Palatka April 11, 2026 10am-1pm
(table only event) 
4. Bradford Co – Starke April 25, 2026 10am-1pm
(table only event)

More Information

For more information about the CIL’s Emergency Preparedness Services and Events, please contact:
Kevin Towles
ktowles@cilncf.org
352-368-3788 Ext. 1017