Jacksonville Tropical Storm Preparedness – Essential Safety Checklist

Living in Jacksonville, Florida, means enjoying sunny beaches, rich culture, and a laid-back lifestyle. But when tropical storm season rolls in, from June through November, it’s a different story. Sudden downpours, high winds, and flying debris can cause significant damage to homes and vehicles alike.

For residents, tropical storm preparedness isn’t just a good idea, it’s a necessity. And if you drive regularly, safeguarding your windshield and auto glass should be at the top of your storm safety checklist. A cracked or shattered windshield during a storm can turn a minor inconvenience into a major safety hazard.

Let’s walk through an essential checklist to prepare for tropical storms in Jacksonville, one that protects your home, vehicle, and peace of mind.

Understanding Jacksonville’s Tropical Storm Risks

Tropical storms may not always reach hurricane strength, but they can still pack a serious punch:

• Wind speeds up to 73 mph can topple trees and fling debris.
  
• Storm surge and flooding often occur along the St. Johns River and coastal neighborhoods.
  
• Flying debris is one of the leading causes of broken windows and auto glass damage.
  

Whether it’s a tropical depression or a full-blown storm warning, being prepared helps minimize damage and protect your family and your car.

Essential Safety Checklist for Jacksonville Tropical Storms

Here’s a comprehensive list of precautions you should take before, during, and after a tropical storm:

1. Secure All Windows and Doors

Use storm shutters or plywood to board up windows and glass doors in your home. Even strong gusts of wind can hurl loose objects into the glass, causing dangerous shattering.

Pro Tip: Check your vehicle’s windows and windshield for any existing chips or cracks. Even a small imperfection can become a large break when exposed to high wind pressure or flying debris.

2. Inspect and Protect Your Auto Glass

Your car’s windshield is a crucial safety feature, especially in storm conditions. If it’s chipped or cracked, it may not hold up under stress.

That’s where NuVision Auto Glass comes in. We offer free mobile windshield replacement in Jacksonville, plus ADAS calibration for newer vehicles to ensure your driver assistance features work correctly post-installation.

Related Services You May Need:

• Windshield Replacement in Jacksonville
  
• ADAS Calibration
  

3. Trim Trees and Secure Outdoor Items

Remove dead limbs from trees and store patio furniture, grills, and lawn tools indoors. These are among the most common projectiles during tropical storms in Northeast Florida.

4. Prepare an Emergency Kit

Your kit should include:

• Flashlights and batteries
  
• First-aid supplies
  
• Bottled water and non-perishable food (3-day supply)
  
• Important documents (insurance, ID)
  
• Car charger or power bank
  
• Basic tools
  

Make sure the kit is accessible in both your home and vehicle.

5. Park Smart

Whenever possible, park your vehicle:

• In a garage
  
• Under a covered carport
  
• Away from trees or utility poles
  

No garage? Consider covering your vehicle with a heavy-duty tarp to minimize glass and paint damage.

6. Review Your Insurance

Verify that your car insurance policy includes comprehensive coverage. In Florida, windshield replacement is fully covered under most comprehensive plans, with no deductible. NuVision Auto Glass works directly with insurers to help you file claims quickly and easily.

Why Auto Glass Damage Increases During Tropical Storms

Even if you’re parked or driving slowly, tropical storm winds can carry:

• Tree limbs
  
• Construction debris
  
• Roadside signs
  
• Loose gravel and dirt
  

When these objects strike your windshield or side windows, the glass can crack or completely shatter, impairing your visibility and safety.

Tip: After any storm, do a full inspection of your car’s exterior. If you notice even a small chip in the windshield, schedule a repair immediately before it spreads.

Final Thoughts: Stay Safe, Stay Ready

Tropical storms in Jacksonville are unpredictable, but your safety doesn’t have to be. From securing your home to inspecting your auto glass, every step counts.

If you spot any windshield damage or want to be proactive before the storm hits, NuVision Auto Glass is just a call or click away. We’ll help you protect your vehicle and restore your peace of mind.

FAQ: Jacksonville Tropical Storm Preparedness

1. Does Florida insurance cover windshield damage from tropical storms?

Yes. If you have comprehensive coverage, your windshield can be repaired or replaced at no cost to you. NuVision works directly with most major insurers to process your claim quickly.

2. Can I drive with a cracked windshield after a storm?

It’s not recommended. A cracked windshield can compromise visibility and may collapse under pressure. Book a mobile windshield repair with NuVision as soon as possible.

3. How do I know if my ADAS system needs recalibration after a replacement?

If your car has features like lane departure warnings or automatic emergency braking, chances are it needs ADAS recalibration after any windshield work. NuVision offers this service as part of your replacement process.

4. How soon should I schedule repairs after the storm?

Immediately. Even small chips can worsen due to Florida’s high humidity and temperature swings. NuVision offers next-day appointments and mobile service throughout Jacksonville.

5. What if I can’t get to the shop?

We come to you. NuVision’s mobile service covers all of Jacksonville and surrounding areas, so you don’t need to leave home to get your glass repaired.