The 2026 Atlantic hurricane season started off surprisingly quietly. By early August, only two named storms had formed, and forecasters were predicting a 75% chance of below-normal hurricane activity. That’s welcome news for commercial facility owners, but remember, it only takes one storm to turn a quiet season into a costly one. And hurricane season isn’t officially over until November 30.
The Best Time to Prepare Is Before a Storm Is Named
When a major storm starts making headlines, the race for supplies begins. Things like plywood, sandbags, and even extra hands to help secure property become hard to find. Meanwhile, the clock is steadily ticking as the storm approaches.
That’s why Professional Retail Services (PRS) recommends owners get ahead of the forecast. For exterior retail storefronts and other exposed commercial properties, this means making arrangements for protective boarding and sandbags before they’re needed. PRS can help get these protective measures in place proactively for the season, rather than waiting until a storm is approaching.
Of course, there’s more to storm preparedness than boarding up windows and placing sandbags. Now is also a good time to inspect your roof for leaks or weak spots, clear gutters to prevent water buildup and make sure outdoor signage and rooftop equipment are properly secured.
Think Beyond the Storm Itself
Getting your building ready for severe weather is only part of the plan. Knowing what happens afterward is just as important. If your facility sustains damage, how quickly can your team assess the situation? Who will coordinate repairs? What needs to happen before employees and customers can safely return? These are decisions you don’t want to be making for the first time while standing in a flooded store.
Before severe weather arrives, establish a clear chain of command so everyone knows who’s responsible for making decisions and coordinating recovery efforts. Make sure critical business documents are backed up and that your maintenance provider is aware of potential flooding or planned shutdowns. That kind of planning can save a lot of headaches after a storm, especially if you’re responsible for getting multiple facilities back up and running.
Your Storm Preparedness Checklist Starts Here
PRS has put together a Storm Preparedness Checklist to help commercial facility owners and managers identify what needs attention before severe weather strikes. From securing doors and windows to protecting equipment and preparing critical business records, it’s a practical resource for getting your facility ready.
Download our Storm Preparedness Checklist and start checking things off while there’s still time.
Need help getting your facilities ready? Contact the PRS team to discuss proactive storm preparation and emergency response services.