Hurricane Season Internet Prep Guide

Stay connected when storms threaten Florida

Updated: January 2025 12 min read Category: Florida Specific

Pre-Season Preparation (May - June)

Florida's hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. Smart preparation before the season starts can mean the difference between staying connected and losing critical communication abilities.

Essential Pre-Season Steps

  • Document Your Setup: Take photos of your modem/router configuration and cable connections
  • Save Account Information: Screenshot or print account numbers, support phone numbers, and login credentials
  • Test Backup Options: Verify mobile hotspot capabilities and data limits before you need them
  • Update Contact Methods: Ensure your provider has current phone numbers for outage notifications

Miami Resident Experience

"After Hurricane Irma, I couldn't log into my account to report outages because I didn't have my account number saved offline. Now I keep a hurricane folder with all provider info printed out." - Carlos M., Miami Beach

Backup Internet Options

Having multiple connectivity options is crucial when primary services fail.

Mobile Hotspot Solutions

Provider Hotspot Plan Monthly Cost Hurricane Benefits
Verizon 50GB Hotspot $85 Best cell tower backup power
AT&T 40GB Hotspot $75 COWs (Cell on Wheels) deployment
T-Mobile 50GB Hotspot $70 Emergency data allowances

Satellite Internet Backup

Satellite services continue working when ground infrastructure fails:

  • Starlink: $599 equipment + $110/month - Portable option available
  • HughesNet: $299 equipment + $70/month - Florida-wide coverage
  • Viasat: $399 equipment + $100/month - Storm recovery programs

Important Satellite Consideration

Satellite dishes must be removed or secured before hurricane-force winds. Plan for temporary service interruption during the storm itself.

Protecting Your Equipment

Florida's storms bring multiple threats: power surges, flooding, and wind damage. Proper protection saves both money and downtime.

Surge Protection Strategy

  1. Whole-House Surge Protector: $300-500 installed
    • Protects all electronics from main panel
    • Required by Florida building code in many areas
  2. UPS Battery Backup: $150-300
    • Maintains internet during brief outages
    • Clean power for sensitive equipment
    • Recommended: APC or CyberPower 1500VA minimum
  3. Equipment Elevation: Free - Critical!
    • Move equipment above potential flood levels
    • Second floor or high shelves preferred

Tampa Bay Experience

"During Hurricane Ian, my neighbor's modem fried from a surge. My $200 UPS saved my entire setup. The battery even kept my internet running for 3 hours after we lost power." - Jennifer K., St. Petersburg

During the Storm

Safety first, connectivity second. Follow these guidelines when storms approach:

24-48 Hours Before Landfall

  • Charge all devices and backup batteries to 100%
  • Download offline maps and important documents
  • Test backup internet connections while primary service still works
  • Enable WiFi calling on all capable phones

12-24 Hours Before Landfall

  • Unplug and waterproof-bag all network equipment
  • Remove or secure outdoor equipment (satellite dishes, antennas)
  • Switch phones to maximum battery saving modes
  • Send "I'm OK" messages while networks are still reliable

During the Storm

  • Keep equipment unplugged until storm passes
  • Use phone sparingly - text instead of call when possible
  • Monitor battery levels constantly
  • Have backup charging methods ready (car chargers, power banks)

Post-Storm Recovery

Restoring connectivity after a hurricane requires patience and the right approach.

Immediate Steps (First 24 Hours)

  1. Safety Check: Ensure no water damage or electrical hazards before powering equipment
  2. Visual Inspection: Check for damaged cables, water intrusion, or displaced equipment
  3. Gradual Power-Up: Connect equipment one piece at a time
  4. Network Priority: Mobile networks typically restore first, then cable/fiber

Provider Communication

Provider Storm Reporting Method Typical Restoration Time
Xfinity Text "OUT" to 266278 3-7 days urban, 7-14 days rural
AT&T myAT&T app or text 2-5 days priority areas
Spectrum 1-833-267-6094 5-10 days average

Fort Myers Recovery Experience

"After Hurricane Ian, Xfinity was down for 3 weeks in our neighborhood. My T-Mobile hotspot became our lifeline. The cell towers came back in 4 days, but cable took forever." - Robert D., Fort Myers

Emergency Communication Plans

When traditional internet fails, these alternatives keep you connected:

Free WiFi Locations (Post-Storm)

  • Xfinity WiFi Hotspots: Free during emergencies for everyone
  • Public Libraries: Usually first to restore with generator backup
  • Home Depot/Lowe's: Often provide free WiFi in parking lots
  • Emergency Shelters: County-provided internet access

Alternative Communication Methods

  • Ham Radio: No internet required, works when all else fails
  • Satellite Messengers: Garmin inReach ($15/month) for emergency texts
  • Mesh Networks: GoTenna devices create local networks without infrastructure

Provider Hurricane Policies

Florida ISPs have specific storm policies that can save you money and hassle:

Major Provider Storm Policies

Xfinity/Comcast

  • Automatic service credits for outages over 24 hours
  • No disconnect for non-payment during declared emergencies
  • Free equipment replacement for storm damage (with documentation)
  • Waived late fees for affected areas

AT&T

  • Unlimited mobile data during emergencies
  • Free HBO Max to affected customers during extended outages
  • Priority restoration for hospitals and emergency services
  • Equipment replacement programs

Spectrum

  • Prorated credits for service outages
  • Extended payment arrangements available
  • Free WiFi hotspots opened to public
  • Mobile service units deployed to affected areas

Florida Resident Experiences

Hurricane Michael - Panama City

"We lost cable internet for 6 weeks after Michael. I bought a Verizon hotspot the day after the storm - it was the best $200 I ever spent. Work-from-home was possible again in 3 days while neighbors waited weeks." - Sarah L., Panama City

Hurricane Irma - Florida Keys

"Starlink literally saved my business after Irma. Traditional ISPs said 2-3 months for restoration. I had Starlink running in 2 days once power returned. Yes, it's expensive, but it paid for itself immediately." - Mike T., Marathon

Hurricane Ian - Fort Myers Beach

"The storm surge destroyed everything on the first floor, including our cable hookup. AT&T Fiber runs overhead in our area, so they restored service weeks before Xfinity could repair underground lines." - Linda R., Fort Myers Beach

Hurricane Prep Cost Analysis

Basic Hurricane Internet Kit ($300-500)

  • Surge protector power strip: $50
  • Portable phone charger (20,000mAh): $40
  • Waterproof equipment bags: $30
  • Mobile hotspot device: $150
  • One month hotspot service: $70

Comprehensive Protection ($1,000-1,500)

  • UPS battery backup system: $250
  • Whole-house surge protector: $400 installed
  • Portable generator (3,500W): $500
  • Mobile hotspot with 3-month service: $280
  • Weatherproof equipment storage: $100

Premium Backup Solution ($3,000+)

  • Starlink kit with mount: $599
  • 3 months Starlink service: $330
  • Standby generator installation: $2,000+
  • Professional surge protection: $500
  • Multiple backup devices: $300

Cost-Saving Tip

Many phone plans include hotspot data you're already paying for. Check your plan before buying separate hotspot devices. During emergencies, carriers often provide unlimited data temporarily.

Hurricane Internet Checklist

May (Pre-Season)

  • Review and update insurance coverage for equipment
  • Test all backup power sources
  • Verify mobile hotspot capabilities
  • Document all equipment serial numbers
  • Save provider contact info offline

72 Hours Before Storm

  • Charge all devices to 100%
  • Download offline content and maps
  • Test backup internet connections
  • Enable low-power modes on devices
  • Notify remote work/family of potential outages

24 Hours Before Storm

  • Unplug all network equipment
  • Waterproof-bag sensitive electronics
  • Secure or remove outdoor equipment
  • Final backup of important data
  • Send safe location updates to contacts

After Storm Passes

  • Check for water/electrical hazards
  • Inspect all cable connections
  • Power up equipment gradually
  • Report outages to providers
  • Document any damage for insurance

Stay Connected During Hurricane Season

Don't wait until a storm is approaching. Prepare your internet backup plan today.