Hurricane Travel and Evacuation: What Every Teen Driver (and Their Parents) Need to Know

Hurricane season can be unpredictable, especially if it’s your first time behind the wheel during one. This guide helps you stay safe, stay smart, and stay calm — even if conditions take a turn.

Hurricane Warnings, Decoded

Not all alerts mean the same thing. Here’s how to interpret them:

• Hurricane Watch = Conditions might happen within 48 hours. Time to prepare.

• Hurricane Warning = Conditions will happen within 36 hours. Time to act.

Hurricanes are ranked from Category 1 (least intense) to Category 5 (catastrophic) on the Saffir-Simpson Wind ScaleAboutsshws.php. For accurate updates, stick with sources like the National Hurricane Center.

Evacuation: Why Early Is Always Better

If officials issue an evacuation order, leave early. Roads fill quickly, and waiting can be dangerous. Coastal areas, in particular, are prone to storm surge — don’t risk it.

What to do:

• Follow official evacuation routes (no shortcuts).

• Let someone know your route and estimated arrival time.

• Choose destinations farther inland if possible.

Even if you feel safe in your area, hurricane impacts can extend well beyond the storm’s center. Don’t assume you’re out of danger.

Pack This in Your Teen’s Car Emergency Kit

Every vehicle needs a storm-ready kit, especially for less experienced drivers.

Checklist:

• Phone charger and backup power bank

• First-aid kit and flashlight

• Bottled water and non-perishable snacks

• Blanket and weather-appropriate clothes

• Copies of insurance, ID, and registration

• Paper maps in case of tech failure

• Comfort items like music, books, or games

Need help building the ultimate supply list? Check out our guide on what to include in your emergency car kit33 Items You Should Include In Your Emergency Car Kit Blog.

And don’t forget: a full tank of gas could save you hours of stress. Don’t risk waiting in post-storm fuel lines.

Driving in a Hurricane? Don’t — Unless It’s Life or Death

Visibility drops. Roads flood. Wind gusts make steering a nightmare. If you must drive:

• Reduce speed and keep headlights on.

• Never attempt to cross standing water — it’s deeper than it looks.

• Avoid bridges and open highways during high winds.

Learn what to do when driving through floodwaterDriving In Floodwater Safe Driving and other weather hazards.

Teens — even confident ones — should hand the wheel over to a more experienced adult if possible.

After the Storm: Stay Cautious

Once the skies clear, don’t assume it’s safe. Hazards can include:

• Downed power lines

• Flood-damaged roads or hidden sinkholes

• Debris, fallen trees, and misplaced signage

• Distracted drivers or malfunctioning traffic lights

Before heading out, check traffic updates and local road conditions. Then take it slow. Here’s how to protect your vehicle from storm-related damageProtecting Your Car And Yourself Storm Damage Blog.

Confidence Comes from Preparation

Whether you’re the parent of a teen or the teen behind the wheel, hurricane driving safety comes down to preparation and judgment. Practice evacuation routes together. Review emergency procedures. Repack that emergency kit every season.

Preparedness isn’t about panic — it’s about peace of mind.

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