Get Storm Ready: Disaster and Recovery Community Expo Set for June 13

With the 2026 hurricane season underway, Hillsborough County is inviting residents to take the next step in preparing their families, homes, and neighborhoods for severe weather. The Disaster and Recovery Community Expo will take place Saturday, June 13, from 9 a.m. to noon at Feeding Tampa Bay, 3624 Causeway Blvd., Tampa, FL 33619.

The free event will bring together more than 40 local agencies and community partners to help residents learn how to prepare for hurricanes, respond safely during storms, and recover afterward. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet emergency preparedness experts, explore disaster response vehicles and equipment, and receive valuable information about storm safety, evacuation planning, flood insurance updates, and recovery resources. From hands-on activities to engaging demonstrations, the event offers something for residents of all ages.

Meet the experts

Several agencies and organizations that play critical roles before, during, and after disasters will be on hand to answer questions and share preparedness tips. Residents can speak directly with officials from the Hillsborough County Office of Emergency Management to learn how the County protects residents during emergencies and Water Resources to learn how they can safeguard water supplies at home. Visitors can also get an up-close look at equipment used by Hillsborough County Fire Rescue (HCFR) and learn how first responders assist residents during emergencies and disaster recovery operations.

Learn more from:

• Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County
• Pinellas & Hillsborough United in Recovery (PHUR)
• Hillsborough Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)
• National Weather Service
• American Red Cross
• Tampa Electric and many more

Giveaways to help prepare

In addition to educational resources, the event will feature giveaways including dehumidifiers, portable Pack 'n Plays, and hurricane readiness kits designed to help families stay safe during emergencies.

The kits include:

• ProPac Backpack
• Polar fleece blanket
• First aid kit
• Portable AM radio
• Flashlight
• Emergency light stick
• Drinking water purification tablets and more

Prepare now and recover faster

The hurricane expo comes as Hillsborough County continues encouraging residents to make preparedness a year-round priority. Recent storms have shown how quickly conditions can change and how important it is to have a plan in place before a hurricane threatens the area. The Disaster and Recovery Community Expo provides residents with an opportunity to gather information, ask questions, and connect with experts to help prepare for the unexpected.

Learn more about what the expo has to offer, including opportunities to learn how to apply for the County's Rebuilding for Tomorrow federal funding for housing recovery. Stay hurricane and disaster ready at HCFL.gov/StaySafe.