** Hurricane Preparation **

On May 4, 2026, the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM)   

released a call to prepare, listing must-do items for Floridians, such as knowing your evacuation zone and building a hurricane preparedness kit among many others.

You have to prepare and plan that we are going to have impacts from hurricanes!

Some essential steps from the FDEM are:

• Know Your Risk
  • Know Your Zone, Know Your Home - It’s important to know if you live in an evacuation zone, a low-lying, flood-prone area, a mobile home, or an unsafe structure. It is also important to know your home and its ability to withstand strong winds and heavy rain. This information will help you better interpret orders from local officials during a storm. For more information and to determine evacuation zones, visit KnowZoneHome.
• Prepare Before Hurricane Season
  • Build a Kit – Identify items your household may need on hand during and after a hurricane. Essentials of a kit should include enough non-perishable food and water to last each member of your family for at least seven days, extra medication, and important personal documents. For a complete checklist, visit DisasterSupplyKit.
• Understand Forecast Information
  • Have Multiple Ways to Receive Weather Alerts – You should have multiple ways to receive weather alerts and follow all directions from local officials. Have a battery-operated or hand-crank weather radio to ensure you can continue to receive alerts from the National Weather Service in the event of power outages or damaged cell towers. Sign up for emergency alerts at AlertFlorida.
• Get Moving When a Storm Threatens
  • Make a Plan – You should have a disaster plan specific to the needs of everyone in your household, including consideration of children, pets, and seniors. Visit Plan & Prepare for more information. Plans should also consider where to go and what to do in the event of evacuation. You only need to evacuate tens of miles, not hundreds, to reach a safer, more inland location or shelter. 
  • Keep Gas Tanks Half Full – You should keep your vehicle’s gas tank at least half full to ensure you have enough fuel to evacuate as soon as possible without worrying about long lines at gas stations and to avoid gas shortages prior to a storm. If you have an electric vehicle, it’s recommended that the battery be maintained between 50% - 80% of capacity at all times, depending on the type of vehicle and what the vehicle’s manual recommends. Visit HalfwayFull for more information.
• Stay Protected During Storms
  • Stay inside, stay safe, and stay put. Do not attempt to go outside until the wind has calmed and local officials have deemed that the threat has passed.
• Use Caution After Storms
  • After a storm passes danger is still present. There may be downed power lines, hazardous debris, or displaced wildlife. Never enter flooded areas whether it be on foot or in a vehicle, and exercise extreme caution when cleaning up the areas around or in your home.
• Take Action Today
  • Resources are available at FloridaDisaster.org. Local county emergency management offices are also a great resource.

Visit FloridaDisaster.org/Guide to download the full Florida Hurricane Guide for more information on ways to prepare for hurricane season.

Follow FDEM on Instagram, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter) for weather updates, safety tips, and essential preparedness information.

Updated 05/18/2026

Source: Paraphrased and/or copied from the Florida Division of Emergency Management website

This is a timely reminder to prepare for hurricane season. Make sure your emergency plans are in place, supplies are stocked, and you stay informed through official city updates. Below is a checklist:

1. Stay Informed

• Sign Up for Alerts: Register for Alert Punta Gorda to receive real-time emergency notifications via phone, text, or email. Click HERE for information.
• Know Your Evacuation Zone: Visit Know Your Zone Charlotte County to determine your evacuation zone.
• Monitor Weather Updates: Keep a battery-powered NOAA weather radio or use reliable weather apps.

2. Prepare an Emergency Supply Kit

Ensure you have at least a 7-day supply of:

• Water: 1 gallon per person per day.
• Non-perishable Food: Canned goods, granola bars, etc.
• Medications: Prescription and over-the-counter.
• First Aid Kit: Bandages, antiseptics, etc.
• Flashlights & Batteries: Extra batteries for all devices.
• Hygiene Products: Toilet paper, soap, hand sanitizer.
• Important Documents: IDs, insurance papers, stored in a waterproof container.
• Cash: ATMs may be unavailable.
• Pet Supplies: Food, water, leashes, and vaccination records. 

3. Secure Your Property

• Trim Trees and Shrubs: Remove dead or weak branches.
• Secure Outdoor Items: Bring in furniture, grills, and decorations.
• Install Storm Shutters: Or board up windows with plywood.
• Check Insurance Coverage: Ensure policies are up-to-date.

4. Evacuation Planning

• Plan Your Route: Know the nearest shelters and multiple evacuation routes.
• Fuel Vehicles: Keep gas tanks at least half full.
• Prepare a Go-Bag: Include essentials like clothing, toiletries, and important documents.
• Special Needs: All shelters are operated by Charlotte County, including those for individuals with medical needs. Register with local authorities if you require assistance during evacuation. Charlotte County Special Needs Program
• If you live in an evacuation zone, don’t wait—make your evacuation plan now. We strongly recommend that public shelters be your 3rd or 4th option. The best plan is to stay with friends or family inland or on the other coast if possible. While shelters are safe, they are often crowded, lack amenities, and can be uncomfortable.
• If evacuation orders are issued, evacuate early—don’t delay. Roads become congested, gas can run out, and conditions worsen quickly.

5. During the Storm

• Stay Indoors: Away from windows and glass doors.
• Use Flashlights: Avoid candles to prevent fires.
• Monitor Updates: Keep informed through your weather radio or trusted news sources.
• https://www.facebook.com/CityofPuntaGorda

6. After the Storm

• Wait for Official All-Clear: Do not return home until authorities declare it safe.
• Avoid Floodwaters: They may be contaminated or electrically charged.
• Inspect Your Home: Check for structural damage and hazards.
• Document Damage: Take photos for insurance claims.

Essential Emergency Contacts

Emergency Services - Call 911

Local Non-emergency Services

• Punta Gorda Police Department: (941) 639-4111
• Punta Gorda Fire Department: (941) 575-5529
• Charlotte County Sheriff's Office: (941) 639-2101
• Charlotte County Fire/EMS: (941) 743-1367
• Charlotte County Emergency Operations Center: (941) 505-4620

Utilities & Services

• Florida Power & Light (FPL): 1-800-4-OUTAGE (1-800-468-8243)
• Charlotte County Utilities: (941) 764-4300
• Xfinity (aka Comcast) Cable Repair: (941) 625-6000 
• Ripple Fiber (formerly HyperFiber): (941) 208-3688

Medical Facilities

• AdventHealth Port Charlotte: (941) 766-4122 AdventHealth Port Charlotte
• HCA Fawcett Memorial Hospital: (941) 629-1181 https://www.hcafloridahealthcare.com/locations/fawcett-hospital

State & National Resources

• Florida Emergency Information Line: 1-800-342-3557
• FEMA: 1-800-621-3362
• American Red Cross: 1-866-438-4636

For more detailed information and resources, visit the City of Punta Gorda's Emergency Management page by clicking HERE.

Let’s hope for a quiet hurricane season ahead. Our city staff has worked tirelessly—often with long hours and under tough conditions—to help restore our beautiful community. 

While some homes are already repaired, many families are still facing major challenges. Please be patient, and remember that every step forward takes time. 

The small things will get done, but compassion goes a long way. Let’s take a moment to thank our dedicated city staff for all they do—especially our Public Works team, now officially recognized as first responders. 

Stay safe and prepared!

Posted 06/08/2025

Source: Mayor Debi Lux  Punta Gorda District 3 Newsletter dated 06/08/2025

Emergency Operations Center (EOC): 941-575-5580 activated when the EOC becomes operational   

Emergency Preparedness home page

• City of PG Hurricane Preparedness Presentation (2017)
• Hurricane Checklist
• Hurricane Preparation Guide
• Hurricane Preparedness for Boat Owners (05-17-2023)
  • Canal Cross-tie Step-by-Step
• Lynne Matthew’s Hurricane Tips 2024
• Resident Assistance Program (special needs)
• Sign up for Alert Punta Gorda
• City and Emergency leaders will also use Facebook and NextDoor to communicate during an emergency

Storm preparation reminders - During the preparation of any impending storm, the City of Punta Gorda Sanitation Department would like to remind residents of the storm debris preparation and collection guidelines.

• Trimming around your home should be done well before any storm warnings or watches are issued.
• To place yard waste out at this time could block storm drains and cause flooding or allow the materials to become dangerous projectiles.
• DO NOT cut down trees or vegetation or do any major yard work.
• Mass cutting places a tremendous burden on the normal yard waste collection process, and collecting this debris a few days before a storm's landfall is NOT guaranteed.
• During a storm watch or warning, DO NOT place materials at the curb.
• Public Works may suspend services, and facilities may close early to prepare for the storm.

Trash and recycling containers - Be sure to secure your trash, recycling, and any personal yard waste containers inside a secure location. During an event the containers could become projectiles and cause significant damage. The trash and recycling containers end up in the water way disturbing natural habitats and causing unnecessary pollution.

The containers are very costly and the property owner is ultimately responsible for the costs involved in replacing the container. Prices vary according to the container size. A limited amount of containers are kept on sight for replacement.

Updated 05/18/2026

Emergency Management Main Number: 941-833-4000

Follow Charlotte County Emergency Management for important emergency information at www.charlottecountyfl.gov/em, www.facebook.com/oemcharlottecounty, and www.x.com/ccoem.

Check for Charlotte County news HERE.

To receive text updates on recovery resources, text the word CHARCOCARES to 888-777. 

Emergency Management home page

• Alert Charlotte Emergency Alert Program
• How To Stay Informed
• Wireless Emergency Alerts for Smart Phones
• Charlotte County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Program
• Flood Information
• Disaster Guide
• Emergency Orders
• Evacuation Routes
• Evacuation Zones
• Know Your Zone
• Health Care Comprehensive Emergency Management Plans (CEMP)
• Hurricanes
• Severe Weather
• Shelter Listing
• Special Needs Program
• Storm & Recovery Information

Updated 05/18/2026

“What if something happens and I’m not with my family?” “Will I be able to reach them?” “How will I know they are safe?” “How can I let them know I’m OK?”

During a disaster, you will need to send and receive information from your family. Communication networks, such as mobile phones and computers, could be unreliable during disasters, and electricity could be disrupted. Planning in advance will help ensure that all the members of your household — including children and people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs, as well as outside caregivers — know how to reach each other and where to meet up in an emergency.

Make a plan today and share! Some resources …

• Make a Plan Form from Ready.gov
• Family Communications Plan from FLdisaster.org
• Family Emergency Communications Plan from Ready.gov

Updated 05/18/2026

Oxygen-Dependent Residents - Contact your regular vendor directly for additional tanks or refills. Maintain at least a two-week supply.

Prescription medications - Refill prescriptions. Maintain at least a two-week supply.

Contact lenses – Refill prescription. Maintain at least a two-week supply.

Respirators or other electric dependent medical equipment - Make medical arrangements with your physician and register with FPL.

If you are a pet owner or have larger animals (i.e. livestock) it is important that you also consider their needs when developing your disaster plan. If you evacuate your home, DO NOT LEAVE YOUR PETS OR ANIMALS BEHIND.

Some resources ...

• FL Division of Emergency Management Make a Pet Plan
• American Red Cross Pet Disaster Preparedness & Recovery
• ASPCA Disaster Preparedness
• Ready.gov Prepare Your Pets for Disasters
• The Humane Society of the United States Pet Disaster Preparedness

Updated 05/18/2026

Over time, your storm drains, roadside swales, and driveway culverts may get blocked up from yard waste, debris, etc. and cause drainage issues for you or your neighbors. Please check your storm drains, roadside swales, and driveway culverts and clean them out if needed.

Posted 05/29/2025

To report a dangerous condition such as a downed power line: 866-263-9186

To report an outage: 800-468-8243

Power Tracker Outage Map - an online, interactive map that lets customers view outage and restoration information for their area.

Outage information - Report issues or check the status of an outage.

Storm preparation - Resources to help you get ready before a storm hits.

• Storm Guide - Use this guide and tips to prepare your family before a storm hits.
• Safety Tips - Learn about potential electrical hazards that arise before, during and after a storm.
• Generators - Generators can be useful after a storm but dangerous if not used properly.
• Tree Trimming - Minimize the impact of falling tree limbs during a storm.
• Resources - Find quick links and phone numbers for non-FPL emergency resources.
• Seniors - Special tips and considerations specifically for senior citizens.
• Helpful Videos

Updated 05/18/2026

Over the air TV Channels (antenna NOT cable):

• WINK     11.1
• WBBH   20.1
• WZVN   26.1
• WWSB  40.1
• WFTX    36.1

Local AM/FM Radio Stations:

• WCCF     AM 1580
• WENG    AM 1530, FM 98.1, FM 107.5
• WIKX      FM 92.9
• WBCG    FM 98.9
• WCVU    FM 104.9
• WINK      FM 96.9
• WCKT     FM 100.9

Local News Media

• Charlotte Sun
• Herald Tribune

Source: Charlotte County’s How To Stay Informed web page

VHF Radio

• NOAA channel 3
• Coast Guard channel 9

NOAA Weather Radio home page

NOAA Weather Radio Station Search

The Weather Channel home page

Local Emergency Alerts

• Alert Punta Gorda Emergency Public Notification System
• Alert Charlotte Emergency Alert Program

About different Emergency Alerts and how to get them from the U.S. Dept. of Homeland Security Ready Campaign

A Guide for Alerts and Warnings from FEMA

Know Your Alerts and Warnings from FEMA

Mobile Apps with Local Alert Functions

• FEMA www.fema.gov/mobile-app
• Red Cross www.redcross.org/prepare/mobile-apps
• Download The Weather Channel app from wherever you normally download your apps
  •  How To Enable Your Phone's Weather Alerts in The Weather Channel app
• The Florida Public Radio Emergency Network (FPREN) delivers timely safety information and emergency messaging to public radio and television stations across the state of Florida as needed. Download the Florida Storms app from wherever you normally download your apps or visit FPREN to download their app to your phone.

You may also be able to stream local TV stations live from your desktop computer, laptop, tablet, or mobile phone. Go to the network's website and locate and click the link to watch TV. This will typically be a button labeled something like “Live TV.”  Not all networks or stations will have this option. But if they do, the website will be streaming whatever is scheduled for their channel at the time you’re watching.

 
Follow the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) on Instagram, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter) for weather updates, safety tips, and essential preparedness information.

Updated 08/24/2026

If you need to evacuate or travel during an emergency, you’ll need to know about Florida road conditions such as accidents, congestion, construction and maintenance activities, hazards, travel times, etc. The FL511 system is the state's official source for traffic and travel information. This information service is accessible by mobile app, website, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, text alerts, and more. Visit FL511 for more information.

Posted 08/24/2026

Source: FL511 website

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The FL Office of Insurance Regulation provides a resource on FLOIR.com to encourage Floridians to be proactive and take measures to prevent and reduce windstorm losses. 

Consumers can take advantage of insurance premium savings when installing or implementing windstorm damage mitigation techniques, alterations, or solutions to their properties to prevent windstorm losses. The Wind Mitigation Resources webpage is intended to provide a detailed resource to consumers regarding the process of requesting a wind mitigation inspection, updating and submitting necessary wind mitigation forms, and for obtaining information about mitigation programs available (subject to eligibility requirements), and other mitigation resources to benefit consumers. 

Source: FL Office of Insurance Regulation Wind Mitigation Resources webpage

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The My Safe Florida Home Program offers financial assistance to eligible Florida homeowners to help retrofit and strengthen homes against storm damage.

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Some essential steps to prepare for hurricanes from the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM):

• Know Your Risk
  • Know Your Zone, Know Your Home - It’s important to know if you live in an evacuation zone, a low-lying, flood-prone area, a mobile home, or an unsafe structure. It is also important to know your home and its ability to withstand strong winds and heavy rain. This information will help you better interpret orders from local officials during a storm. For more information and to determine evacuation zones, visit KnowZoneHome.
• Prepare Before Hurricane Season
  • Build a Kit – Identify items your household may need on hand during and after a hurricane. Essentials of a kit should include enough non-perishable food and water to last each member of your family for at least seven days, extra medication, and important personal documents. For a complete checklist, visit DisasterSupplyKit.
• Understand Forecast Information
  • Have Multiple Ways to Receive Weather Alerts – You should have multiple ways to receive weather alerts and follow all directions from local officials. Have a battery-operated or hand-crank weather radio to ensure you can continue to receive alerts from the National Weather Service in the event of power outages or damaged cell towers. Sign up for emergency alerts at AlertFlorida.
• Get Moving When a Storm Threatens
  • Make a Plan – You should have a disaster plan specific to the needs of everyone in your household, including consideration of children, pets, and seniors. Visit Plan & Prepare for more information. Plans should also consider where to go and what to do in the event of evacuation. You only need to evacuate tens of miles, not hundreds, to reach a safer, more inland location or shelter. 
  • Keep Gas Tanks Half Full – You should keep your vehicle’s gas tank at least half full to ensure you have enough fuel to evacuate as soon as possible without worrying about long lines at gas stations and to avoid gas shortages prior to a storm. If you have an electric vehicle, it’s recommended that the battery be maintained between 50% - 80% of capacity at all times, depending on the type of vehicle and what the vehicle’s manual recommends. Visit HalfwayFull for more information.
• Stay Protected During Storms
  • Stay inside, stay safe, and stay put. Do not attempt to go outside until the wind has calmed and local officials have deemed that the threat has passed.
• Use Caution After Storms
  • After a storm passes danger is still present. There may be downed power lines, hazardous debris, or displaced wildlife. Never enter flooded areas whether it be on foot or in a vehicle, and exercise extreme caution when cleaning up the areas around or in your home.
• Take Action Today
  • Resources are available at FloridaDisaster.org. Local county emergency management offices are also a great resource.

Download the full Florida Hurricane Guide at FloridaDisaster.org/Guide for more information on ways to prepare for hurricane season.

Updated 05/18/2026

Source: Paraphrased and/or copied from the Florida Division of Emergency Management website

Information about sandbagging is available from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Sandbagging Techniques

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CHARLOTTE COUNTY - SANDBAGS & SAND AVAILABILITY

Charlotte County Public Works may offer sandbags and sand for residents. Check the Charlotte County website or call Charlotte County Public Works at 941-575-3600.

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PLEASE NOTE: The information posted below was applicable in 2025. Please check with the City of Punta Gorda for 2026 applicability. 

CITY OF PUNTA GORDA - SANDBAGS & SAND AVAILABILITY AND DISPOSAL GUIDELINES

*** 06/26/2025 CLARIFICATION ***

According to a representative in the Punta Gorda Public Works Department, the City is NOT PROVIDING FILLED BAGS of sand. Residents should bring their own protective gear, bags with closures, and perhaps a shovel, and be prepared to fill and transport their sandbags themselves. The City will provide sand free of charge and MAY provide SOME shovels which residents may borrow.

==========================================

Sandbags are provided exclusively to Punta Gorda residents ONLY when a storm is expected to impact the area. Residents are limited to 10 bags per household.

The sandbag distribution site will be located at 3400 Ponce de Leon Parkway.

• All residents will be required to provide proof of residency — such as a Driver’s License, Utility Bill, or similar documentation — at the first checkpoint located at Marion Court and Ponce de Leon Parkway.
• Once residency is confirmed, residents will be directed to proceed through the designated and signed-off area of the park.
• Stay informed on distribution times, locations, and limits through the following official sources:
  • City of Punta Gorda website
  • City of Punta Gorda - Government Facebook page
  • Public Works Department: 941-575-5050

Unused, Uncontaminated, Clean Sandbag Reuse and Disposal

Sandbags that have NOT been contaminated by or exposed to floodwater can be safely:

• Reused for future storm events.
• Repurposed by spreading the clean sand on lawns or landscape beds to benefit vegetation.

If you choose to dispose of sandbags:

• Empty the sand onto your property, away from storm drains and waterways.
• Do NOT dump sand into canal systems or other waterways.
• Dispose of empty bags in your regular trash cart.
• Do NOT place empty bags in yard waste bins or recycling carts.
• Do NOT place sand or filled bags in household trash or yard waste bins or recycling carts.
• Dispose of empty or filled sandbags at a solid waste facility located in Charlotte County.

If you choose to reuse sandbags:

• Store uncontaminated, unused, clean sandbags in a cool, out of sunlight, dry location (indoors or under cover) to avoid deterioration.

Proper Disposal of Used, Contaminated Sandbags

Sandbags contaminated by or exposed to floodwater must be handled with care to protect health and the environment:

• Do use protective gear. Always wear gloves and eye protection when handling or emptying contaminated sandbags.
• Follow local guidelines for disposal of sand and sandbags. They should be taken to an approved disposal site.
• Charlotte County Landfill will provide designated drop-off dates, times, and locations, posted on the Charlotte County website.
• Do NOT dump sand into canal systems or other waterways.
• Do NOT place sand or empty bags or filled bags in household trash or yard waste bins or recycling carts.
• NO illegal dumping. Do NOT dump sand or sandbags on private property or unauthorized locations. Violations may result in fines or enforcement actions.

For questions or more information, contact the Public Works Department at 941-575-5050.

Posted 06/26/2025

Source: Paraphrased and/or copied from the City of Punta Gorda Weekly Highlights Report dated 06/13/2025

Updated 05/18/2026