The FEMA 72-hour kit recommendation is the absolute minimum for hurricane preparation in areas where Category 3+ storms are possible. This list covers 14 days — the realistic recovery window after a major hurricane — with specific quantities by person and household. The evacuation decision framework and storm surge information are in hurricane preparedness: evacuation decision, storm surge, and 14-day supply list.
Water: The Non-Negotiable First Priority
Municipal water systems fail during hurricanes — either from power loss to pumping stations or from infrastructure damage causing contamination. Plan for water supply to be unavailable for 7–14 days after a Category 3+ impact.
| Household size | 7-day supply (minimum) | 14-day supply | Storage space (14 days) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 people | 14 gallons | 28 gallons | ~4 cubic feet (one 55-gal barrel, half-filled) |
| 4 people | 28 gallons | 56 gallons | ~7 cubic feet (one 55-gal barrel + extras) |
| 6 people | 42 gallons | 84 gallons | ~11 cubic feet (two 55-gal barrels) |
Fill storage containers when the Hurricane Watch is issued — not when it becomes a Warning. By Warning time, stores are sold out and water pressure may already be affected. Bathtub liners (WaterBOB, 100-gallon capacity) fill in 20 minutes from tap.
Food: 2,000 kcal/Day × 14 Days Per Person
| Food category | Per person / 14 days | 4-person household / 14 days | Approx. cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canned proteins (tuna, chicken, beans, chickpeas) | 14 cans (5–6 oz each) | 56 cans | ~$55 |
| Canned vegetables and soups | 10 cans | 40 cans | ~$40 |
| Peanut butter (18 oz jars) | 1.5 jars | 6 jars | ~$24 |
| Crackers, bread (shelf-stable) | 2 boxes/loaves | 8 boxes | ~$32 |
| Oatmeal, grits (instant) | 1 lb | 4 lbs | ~$12 |
| Rice or pasta (dry) | 3 lbs | 12 lbs | ~$18 |
| Snacks (nuts, bars, dried fruit) | 3 lbs | 12 lbs | ~$36 |
| Total food cost (4 people, 14 days) | ~$217 | ||
Fuel: Generator and Cooking
- Generator fuel (14 days at 8 hrs/day operation): A 2,200W inverter generator at 50% load uses approximately 0.10 gal/hr. 8 hours × 0.10 gal × 14 days = 11.2 gallons. Store in 5-gallon approved cans with fuel stabilizer.
- Cooking fuel (14 days): 1 lb propane cylinder per 1.5–2 hours of high-heat cooking. At 30 minutes of cooking per day: approximately 7–8 × 1 lb cylinders for 14 days, or 1 × 20 lb tank (provides 40+ hours of cooking).
Medical and Prescription Supplies
- All prescription medications: 30-day supply. Request early refills before hurricane season. Pharmacies may be closed for weeks after a major storm.
- OTC: acetaminophen, ibuprofen, antihistamine, anti-diarrheal (Imodium), antacid
- First aid kit with extra wound care supplies — injuries spike during post-storm cleanup
- Mosquito repellent: standing water after storms produces severe mosquito conditions
Documents and Financial
- Copies of: driver’s licenses, insurance policies (homeowner and vehicle), property deed/lease, medical records, prescription information — stored in a waterproof container
- Cash: $300–500 in small bills — ATMs and card readers fail after power loss
Tools and Shelter Repair
- Tarps (two 20×30 ft, heavy-duty 6-mil): Roof damage temporary mitigation
- Chainsaw (and fuel) or bow saw: Tree removal is the #1 post-storm task
- Work gloves (leather or coated), safety glasses, boots
- Bug spray, sunscreen: Post-storm outdoor work in heat and mosquitoes
Where to Go Next
The complete hurricane preparedness guide — evacuation decision, storm surge tables, and action timeline — is in hurricane preparedness: evacuation decision, storm surge, and 14-day supply list. Long-term water storage sizing and chemical treatment is in long-term water storage: tank sizing, rotation protocol, and chemical treatment.
