A Guide from The Realty Medics
What NOAA Is Forecasting for the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season
The 2026 Atlantic hurricane season officially runs from June 1 through November 30, and for the first time in several years, forecasters are cautiously optimistic. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) released its annual outlook in late May 2026, predicting a below-normal season, though experts are quick to remind Floridians that a quieter forecast is never a reason to let your guard down.
According to NOAA, there is a 55% chance of a below-normal season, a 35% chance of a near-normal season, and just a 10% chance of an above-normal season. The agency is forecasting 8 - 14 named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher), of which 3 - 6 are expected to become hurricanes (74 mph or higher), including 1 - 3 major hurricanes reaching Category 3, 4, or 5 status with winds exceeding 111 mph. For context, an average Atlantic season produces around 14 named storms, 7 hurricanes, and 3 major hurricanes.
The primary driver behind the expected quiet season is the development of El Niño, which is a climate pattern that brings increased wind shear across the Atlantic, which disrupts developing tropical systems. While Atlantic water temperatures are forecast to be slightly warmer than normal (a factor that typically fuels storms), NOAA believes El Niño’s suppressive influence will dominate throughout the season.
Still, NOAA administrator Neil Jacobs put it plainly: “It only takes one.” History has shown that even below-average seasons can produce devastating storms. Category 5 hurricanes have made landfall in previous below-average years, and no forecast eliminates the risk entirely. NOAA is also rolling out new technologies this season, including machine learning tools to better analyze hurricane structure and small uncrewed aircraft systems that can improve intensity forecast accuracy by up to 10%.
A Message to Our Tenants: Office Closure & Contact Information
When a hurricane threatens Central Florida, The Realty Medics takes the safety of our team and our tenants seriously. In the event of a storm impacting our area, our physical office will close and reopen once it is safe to do so, typically operating 10am–4pm on the first business day after the storm passes.
Our online service hours remain available 9:30am–8:00pm. For any questions or concerns during a storm event, please reach us at support@therealtymedics.com or by phone at (321) 947-7653. For maintenance emergencies such as water pipe bursts, roof damage, or other property damage, please call our 24/7 emergency maintenance line at (407) 584-7186 and submit a request through your tenant portal with photos and/or video of the damage.
Hurricane Preparedness: Tips for Florida Residents
Preparation is everything. Whether a storm ends up being a tropical storm or a Category 4, having a plan in place ahead of time can make all the difference, including reviewing your renters insurance coverage for hurricane protection. Here are the steps every resident should take before a storm arrives:
Preparing Your Home & Supplies
Bring all outdoor items inside — lawn furniture, flowerpots, planters, play equipment, and anything that could become a projectile in high winds.
Identify your home’s safe room: an interior room, closet, or hallway with no windows.
Gather insurance documents and prescriptions and store them in a waterproof container.
Stock up on flashlights, lanterns, batteries, candles, and lighters or matches.
Have a battery-powered radio, hotplate, and fan(s) ready in case of extended power loss.
Store at least one gallon of drinking water per person per day for a minimum of three days.
Prepare a supply of pet food, water, carriers, and leashes. Make sure pets have ID tags with your name and phone number.
Have blankets and pillows ready for each family member.
Have a first aid kit and medical supplies in case of injury.
The vast majority of people wait until they are in a storm’s path to acquire supplies and prepare, which often leads to shortages. So, start your planning now while supplies are readily available.
If You Evacuate
Follow all recommended precautions from local news media and official storm bulletins.
Do NOT put tape on windows — it does not protect the glass and creates additional damage.
Do not leave pets behind.
Secure all outside items and ensure nothing is left in the yard.
Secure your home and follow all recommendations from local emergency preparedness teams.
Know the Difference: Watch vs. Warning
Living in Florida means understanding the terminology forecasters use. A Hurricane Watch means conditions are possible in your area, typically within 48 hours, which is your cue to finish preparations. A Hurricane or Tornado Warning means conditions are expected in your area, usually within 36 hours, which is your cue to take final action or evacuate if instructed.
What to Do If Your Property Is Damaged
Call 911 immediately if there is any life-threatening emergency, but keep in mind that first responders cannot respond once wind speeds exceed 45mph. You will be responsible for triage and treating any injuries that may occur, so make sure you have a quality first aid kit or medical supplies.
For property damage such as a burst pipe, roof leak, water intrusion, or fallen tree, here is the protocol:
Take immediate steps to prevent additional damage — turn off the source of water, electricity, or gas as the situation requires.
Notify The Realty Medics by submitting a maintenance request through your tenant portal and calling our 24/7 emergency maintenance line at (407) 584-7186. Please attach photos and/or video.
File a claim with your renter’s insurance for any personal belongings and notify us of the claim.
Provide emergency reports (police, fire, etc.) to The Realty Medics within 5 days of the incident.
Provide access for insurance adjusters and repair personnel and notify us of any delays or issues.
Please keep in mind that roof leaks cannot be repaired until the area is completely dry. Our maintenance team will schedule repairs as soon as weather conditions allow. Power outages should be reported directly to your electric provider, as utility restoration is outside of our control.
Helpful Resources
Stay informed throughout hurricane season using these official sources:
Florida Division of Emergency Management: www.floridadisaster.org
Florida Department of Health Emergency Information: www.floridahealth.gov/about/emergency.html
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration: www.noaa.gov
Note: Save this blog so you can easily reference it if needed.
From all of us at The Realty Medics — stay safe, stay prepared, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you need us.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What should renters do before a hurricane?
Renters should prepare an emergency kit, review their renters insurance policy, secure outdoor belongings, charge electronic devices, store important documents in a waterproof container, and stay informed through local weather alerts. It's also important to know evacuation routes and emergency contact information before a storm approaches.
2. Does renters insurance cover hurricane damage?
Renters insurance typically covers personal belongings damaged by wind, rain, or other covered perils caused by a hurricane. However, most standard policies do not cover flood damage. Renters living in flood-prone areas may need a separate flood insurance policy to protect their belongings.
3. Can a tenant stay in a rental property during a hurricane?
Tenants should always follow local emergency management guidance and evacuation orders. If authorities issue a mandatory evacuation, residents should leave immediately for their safety. Even if an evacuation order is not in place, tenants should assess their risk and follow recommendations from local officials.
4. What should tenants do if their rental home is damaged during a hurricane?
After the storm has passed and it is safe to do so, tenants should document any damage with photos and videos, take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage, and notify their property management company as soon as possible. Avoid entering areas that may have structural damage, flooding, or electrical hazards.
5. What should be included in a hurricane emergency kit for renters?
A hurricane emergency kit should include at least three days' worth of water and non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, cell phone chargers, important documents, cash, pet supplies, and any essential personal items. Having these supplies ready before a storm can help renters stay safe during power outages and emergency situations.
