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Hurricane-Season Car & Boat Prep Guide for Hampton Roads
Atlantic hurricane season runs June 1 to November 30 (National Hurricane Center). This free checklist covers what to do with your cars, boats and trailers before a storm, and what to check after one, with links to the official sources.
Before the storm: vehicles
- Find your evacuation zone now at Know Your Zone (VDEM), and follow local officials when they call an evacuation.
- Make a plan and gather documents in a waterproof bag: title, registration and insurance cards (Ready.gov).
- Photograph and video each vehicle inside and out, with the odometer, for insurance records.
- Fill the gas tank or charge the EV before the storm; stations can close or lose power.
- Park on higher ground or in a garage, away from trees, power lines and low spots that flood.
- Close windows and sunroof fully and remove loose items from truck beds and roof racks.
Boats and trailers
BoatUS has detailed storm plans for boat owners. The basics:
Haul out or double up
- If your marina allows it, hauling out and storing ashore is usually the safest choice; book it early.
- If the boat stays in the water, double the dock lines, add chafe protection and leave room for the surge to rise.
Strip the deck
- Remove canvas, biminis, sails, cushions and anything that can catch wind.
- Take electronics and documents off the boat.
Trailer boats
- Store the boat and trailer away from trees and low ground.
- Strap the boat to the trailer and tie the trailer down; chock the wheels.
After the storm
- Never drive through flooded roads. The National Weather Service warns that just 12 inches of water can float a car or small SUV, and 18 inches can carry away large vehicles.
- If water reached the floor or higher, do not start the vehicle.
- Photograph the water line and damage, then call your insurer before cleaning or repairs so the adjuster can see it.
- Once your insurer says it's OK, rinse salt or brackish water, mud and silt off paint, wheels and underbody with gentle fresh water. Do not dry-wipe grit.
- Dry the interior fast: pull wet mats and open doors in a safe, dry place.
- Rinse boats, hardware and trailers with fresh water and check straps, lights and bearings.
Flood-car warning signs
Useful after a storm and when buying a used car later:
Look
- A water line or silt in the trunk, under seats, in the spare-tire well or glovebox.
- Rust on seat rails, pedals or screws that normally stay dry.
- Fog or moisture inside lights and gauges.
Smell and test
- Musty or mildew odor, or heavy air freshener covering it.
- Electrical problems: windows, locks, lights or warning lamps acting up.
- Ask for a vehicle history report and a pre-purchase inspection.
Shine My Ride 757, LLC · smrdetailing.com · 757-689-9821. This guide is general information, not legal, insurance or safety advice. Always follow official sources linked above and local emergency officials.