Hurricanes Debby, Helene, and Milton hit Tampa Bay in the same season. That doesn't happen often – and it exposed something most property owners here hadn't fully reckoned with: the gap between what they thought they were prepared for and what the storms actually did.

Most critical 24-hour hurricane preparations for Tampa Bay homes: secure outdoor items, install hurricane shutters/plywood (allow 2-3 hours), stock emergency supplies (water, non-perishable food, medications), and prepare evacuation plan. Start when storm is 24-36 hours out. Read on for complete emergency checklist ...