Hurricane Milton: Prepare, Stay Safe, and Informed
As Florida faces the threat of Hurricane Milton, we want to share essential resources and information to help you prepare and protect your family, farm, and market before, during, and after the storm.
Emergency Resources for Farmers Impacted by Hurricanes
If your farm has been affected by Hurricane Helene or you are bracing for potential damage from Hurricane Milton, follow these steps to document and report losses:
- Document all damages
Take photos and videos of the damage, and obtain third-party verification if possible (non-family members preferred). - Report to USD
Take photos and videos of the damage, and obtain third-party verification if possible (non-family members preferred). - Keep detailed records
Write down all damage descriptions, necessary repairs, expenses, and save receipts for potential reimbursement. - Hold off on permanent repairs
Emergency repairs (like gates and fencing) can be made, but permanent fixes require FSA authorization.
USDA Support for Farmers Affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton
The USDA provides a variety of programs to support farmers recovering from natural disasters, including:
- Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-Raised Fish
- Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP)
- Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP)
- Tree Assistance Program (TAP)
- Emergency Conservation and Forest Restoration Programs
- Farm Loans and Emergency Watershed Protection
- Emergency Relief Program (ERP)
Before the Storm
Farmers
- Register with the USDA Farm Service Agency to access disaster programs and loans.
- Learn about USDA assistance programs suitable for you at Farmers.gov/recover
- Document your assets: Keep receipts, proof of purchase, photos, and videos.
- Plan to secure equipment and manage livestock and crops (e.g., pruning and harvesting).
Residents and Business Owners
- Create a disaster plan for your family or business.
- Generate a business disaster plan using the FloridaDisaster.biz Disaster Planning Toolkit
- Prepare a disaster supply kit
- Print copies of the Food Assistance Replacement Form for SNAP shoppers if your outlet may be impacted.
- Save documentation of power outages for SNAP Replacement.
- Document everything: Take before and after photos of property and assets, and note all recovery efforts to assist in claims processes.
During The Storm
Stay Updated: For real-time updates on Hurricane Milton, including shelter information and evacuation zones, visit the Florida Division of Emergency Management
Learn MoreAfter the Storm
Access food, housing, and essential recovery resources after Hurricane Milton. Feeding Florida and HOPE Florida are here to help those affected.
Feeding Florida’s Network
Locate your nearest food bank to access water, MREs, and food. Stay updated on distribution schedules and resources to aid in recovery.
Find Your Local Food Bank
HOPE Florida Resources
Get support for food assistance, housing, and more through HOPE Florida. Follow updates on the Florida Department of Children and Families Facebook page or call 833-GET-HOPE for immediate help.
Learn About HOPE FloridaRecovery takes time, but you’re not alone. Explore available resources, connect with your community, and take the first steps toward rebuilding. Stay safe!
Related Resources
HOPE Florida Updates
Florida Division of Emergency Management
Disaster Planning Toolkit
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