Message From Highland Beach PD - Hurricane Preparedness

Hurricane season starts tomorrow and goes on until November 30^th, and the National Weather Association predicts for this hurricane season a “40% chance of a near-normal season, a 30% chance of an above-normal season and a 30% chance of a below-normal season. NOAA is forecasting a range of 12 to 17 total named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher)”. Regardless of predictions, it takes only one devastating storm to make it a “bad” hurricane season. Our message is clear - HAVE A PLAN & BE PREPARED!

With the season beginning tomorrow, it is important for all our residents to know that as a barrier island, Highland Beach is in a MANDATORY EVACUATION ZONE when a Category 2 Hurricane or higher is expected to impact our area. If an evacuation order is issued, it is in the best interest of everyone to do so. Emergency responders will not be able to respond in high winds or weather conditions that would put First Responders in danger. If you have an emergency during a storm, you may experience a very long wait for emergency response. It is imperative that planning and preparation to move off the barrier island during an evacuation order to someplace safe and secure are done now and not when a storm is threatening.

As the same with past storms, there is NO specific “pass or placard” required to return to Town after evacuating. Residents with identification with their home address will be allowed back if it is safe and conditions allow. Any workers or caretakers returning to the Town will need identification and the address and resident/condominium name they are going to.

In prior hurricane seasons, the Town’s CodeRED notification system has been the most effective means of disseminating critical and timely information to our residents. If you have not done so yet, please make it a priority to register for CodeRED, which can be done through the Town’s website.

Please contact us if we can be of any assistance in your planning and preparation as we are always available to meet with residents, HOA meetings, or your association’s staff. 

You can learn more information on Hurricane preparedness and resources on the Town’s website at www.highlandbeach.us. 

The Highland Beach Police Department’s top priority is to ensure the safety and security of our community before, during, and after any storm.