Where Should You Park Your Car During a Hurricane?

Where you park your vehicle before a hurricane can determine whether it remains available for evacuation, recovery and everyday transportation after the storm.

The best location is generally:

A dry, enclosed and structurally sound garage located outside areas at risk from storm surge or flooding.

But that answer comes with an important condition.

An enclosed garage is not a safe location if the garage itself is likely to flood. In that situation, moving the vehicle to higher ground before conditions deteriorate may provide better protection.

Your decision should account for three primary threats:

1. Flooding and storm surge
2. Falling trees and large debris
3. Wind-driven objects and structural damage

The safest choice will depend on your property, evacuation zone, local elevation and the specific storm.

Protecting your car is important, but it should never delay an evacuation.

If officials order your area to evacuate, leave.

Do not remain in a storm surge zone because the vehicle is parked in a garage. Do not drive through deteriorating weather to find a better parking space. Do not enter floodwater to move or retrieve a vehicle.

Move the vehicle early, while roads are open and conditions remain safe.

A parking plan should be made before a hurricane threatens your area, not during the final hours before landfall.

A properly constructed enclosed garage can protect a vehicle from:

• Tree branches
• Wind-driven debris
• Hail
• Falling signs
• Roof materials
• Broken glass
• Minor flying objects

Before parking inside, confirm that:

• The location is not expected to flood
• The garage door closes completely
• The garage door and tracks appear secure
• The roof and structure are in reasonable condition
• The vehicle fits without contacting the door
• Tools and storage items are secured
• Shelving cannot fall onto the vehicle
• Hanging objects are removed or secured
• Chemicals and fuel containers are stored safely
• You can reach the vehicle and keys quickly if evacuation becomes necessary

A garage full of loose tools, building materials and overhead storage may introduce its own hazards.

Secure anything that could fall, roll or become airborne inside the garage.

The garage door is often one of the largest openings in a home.

If it fails during extreme winds, the opening can allow wind and rain into the structure. That can increase pressure on walls, doors and the roof.

Before hurricane season:

• Inspect the garage door
• Check rollers, tracks, hinges and fasteners
• Look for visible damage or corrosion
• Confirm that any approved reinforcement system is available
• Learn how to install the reinforcement correctly
• Follow the door manufacturer’s instructions
• Make sure the manual release works

Do not wait until tropical-storm-force winds begin to attempt repairs or install unfamiliar equipment.

If you are uncertain about the garage door’s condition or wind rating, have it evaluated by a qualified professional before hurricane season.

An enclosed garage does not protect a vehicle from rising water.

Avoid parking in:

• Underground garages
• Below-grade parking areas
• Low spots
• Coastal storm surge zones
• Areas with repeated street flooding
• Garages near canals, bays, rivers or drainage problems
• Structures where water has entered during previous storms

Storm surge can travel inland through bays, rivers, canals and other waterways. Heavy rainfall can also flood locations outside the immediate coastal surge zone.

Do not assume a garage is safe simply because it is enclosed.

Check:

• Your evacuation zone
• Local flood maps
• The National Hurricane Center’s storm surge information
• Local emergency-management instructions
• Previous flooding around the property
• The elevation of the garage relative to nearby roads and waterways

If you have reason to believe the garage could flood, relocate the vehicle early.

If your home or normal parking area is vulnerable to flooding, identify a safer location before hurricane season.

Possible options include:

• A friend or relative’s property on higher ground
• An inland location outside the evacuation zone
• An approved public parking facility
• A private parking garage that permits storm parking
• An employer’s elevated parking structure
• Another secure location specifically opened for residents

Confirm permission before leaving a vehicle on private property.

Do not assume a parking garage will remain open or allow hurricane storage. Facilities may have:

• Access restrictions
• Closing times
• Height limits
• Towing policies
• Payment requirements
• Security limitations
• Rules against overnight parking
• Different emergency procedures

Save the facility’s address, entrance instructions and contact information before the storm.

A multilevel parking structure may provide elevation above floodwater, but not every level offers the same protection.

When permitted, consider parking:

• Above known flood levels
• Away from open exterior edges
• Away from ground-level entrances where water may enter
• Below the exposed rooftop level
• Away from loose signs, landscaping or unsecured equipment
• Where the vehicle will not block emergency access

The rooftop level may provide elevation, but it also leaves the vehicle exposed to wind and debris.

Lower and underground levels may provide wind protection but can collect floodwater.

An interior space on an elevated level may offer a better balance, but no parking structure is risk-free.

Never use a parking garage as a substitute for an approved hurricane shelter. Do not plan to remain in the vehicle during the storm.

Choose the least exposed location available.

Park away from:

• Large trees
• Dead or damaged branches
• Power lines
• Utility poles
• Construction areas
• Temporary signs
• Fences
• Carports in poor condition
• Dumpsters
• Loose outdoor furniture
• Low-lying areas
• Storm drains that frequently back up
• Canals, retention ponds and waterways
• Buildings with visibly damaged roofs or siding

Look above the parking space as well as around it.

A location may appear protected at ground level while sitting directly beneath a tree limb, power line, satellite dish or unsecured structure.

If possible, choose firm, level pavement on higher ground.

A substantial building may reduce some direct wind exposure, but parking against a building creates other risks.

Windows can break.

Roofing materials can fall.

Signs, awnings, gutters and wall coverings can detach.

Water may collect near the structure.

Avoid parking directly beneath:

• Windows
• Roof edges
• Balconies
• Signs
• Awnings
• Solar equipment
• Satellite dishes
• Decorative structures

Do not assume every side of a building will remain protected as the storm changes direction.

Hurricane winds rotate, and the most exposed side can change as the storm moves through the area.

Shade makes trees attractive parking locations during normal Florida weather.

During a hurricane, they can become one of the greatest threats to a vehicle.

Avoid parking beneath or immediately beside:

• Large trees
• Tall palms
• Trees with visible decay
• Trees with leaning trunks
• Trees with shallow or exposed roots
• Branches extending over the vehicle
• Trees growing in saturated soil
• Previously damaged trees

Healthy trees can still fail in hurricane winds, especially after the ground becomes saturated.

Moving the vehicle a short distance away from an overhanging branch can prevent major damage.

Do not park beneath or near:

• Overhead power lines
• Utility poles
• Transformers
• Communication lines
• Temporary utility equipment

Lines and poles may fall during the storm.

Afterward, assume every downed wire is energized. Stay inside the vehicle if a live wire falls across it unless fire or another immediate danger requires you to leave. Contact emergency services and follow their instructions.

Never touch a vehicle that is in contact with a downed power line.

A standard car cover offers little protection from falling trees, floodwater or substantial wind-driven debris.

In strong winds, an improperly secured cover may:

• Tear
• Damage the paint
• Block access
• Detach from the vehicle
• Become additional debris

Use a cover only when the product is designed for the expected conditions and can be installed according to its instructions.

Do not attach blankets, tarps, plywood or other improvised coverings to a vehicle. They may detach, hold moisture against the finish or create additional hazards.

Relocating the vehicle is more effective than trying to armor it with loose materials.

Before placing the vehicle in its storm location:

• Fill the fuel tank or charge the battery
• Check tire pressure
• Close all windows
• Close the sunroof
• Close and latch the trunk or liftgate
• Fold exterior mirrors if appropriate
• Remove roof cargo
• Remove temporary racks or accessories if practical
• Secure antennas according to manufacturer instructions
• Remove loose objects from the truck bed
• Lock the vehicle
• Set the parking brake
• Place an automatic transmission in Park
• Place a manual transmission in the appropriate gear
• Photograph the vehicle
• Photograph the parking location
• Keep the keys accessible

Do not leave the keys inside the vehicle.

Keep them in a consistent location where all responsible household members can find them quickly.

Anything mounted outside the vehicle can be affected by wind.

Inspect:

• Roof boxes
• Cargo baskets
• Bicycle racks
• Kayak racks
• Awnings
• Flags
• Magnetic signs
• Temporary antennas
• Spare-tire covers
• Truck-bed cargo
• Tonneau covers
• Trailer accessories

Remove nonessential accessories when practical.

If equipment remains installed, confirm that it is correctly mounted and rated for normal road use. Road-use ratings do not guarantee that an accessory will withstand hurricane-force winds while parked.

A loose roof box, rack or cargo item can damage your vehicle, your home or someone else’s property.

There is no universal direction that guarantees protection.

Hurricane winds can change direction as the storm passes, and surrounding buildings can redirect airflow in unpredictable ways.

Prioritize:

1. Staying outside flood-prone areas
2. Avoiding trees and power lines
3. Using a secure enclosed structure
4. Avoiding loose objects and damaged buildings
5. Keeping the vehicle accessible

If the vehicle may still be needed for evacuation, parking nose-out can make departure faster. Do this only when it fits the parking location safely and does not create another hazard.

Do not depend on vehicle orientation as the primary form of protection.

If your household has more than one vehicle, decide whether every vehicle needs to be protected or moved.

Consider:

• Which vehicle is most reliable
• Which vehicle will be used for evacuation
• Passenger capacity
• Cargo capacity
• Fuel economy
• Accessibility needs
• Pet transportation
• Towing requirements
• Insurance coverage
• Flood vulnerability
• Available secure parking

Place the evacuation vehicle where it can leave without moving another vehicle first.

Keep its keys, documents and essential equipment immediately accessible.

If secure parking is limited, prioritize the vehicle your household depends on for evacuation and recovery.

Before the storm:

• Charge the vehicle
• Move it away from areas at risk of saltwater flooding
• Avoid below-grade garages in flood-prone locations
• Follow manufacturer guidance
• Keep charging equipment dry
• Do not leave charging cables where water can reach them
• Disconnect charging equipment if instructed by the manufacturer or local authorities

If an electric or hybrid vehicle is exposed to floodwater, especially saltwater:

• Do not attempt to start it
• Do not attempt to charge it
• Do not touch damaged high-voltage components
• Contact the manufacturer, dealer or qualified emergency personnel
• Arrange professional towing and inspection

NHTSA advises that a flood-damaged vehicle with a lithium-ion battery should not be stored in a garage or within 50 feet of a structure, another vehicle or combustible materials because damaged batteries may create shock and fire risks.

That advice applies after suspected flood damage. Before the storm, the priority is preventing the vehicle from being flooded in the first place.

Take clear photographs or video of:

• All four sides
• The roof
• Windshield and windows
• Wheels and tires
• Interior
• Cargo area
• Current mileage
• Existing scratches or damage
• License plate
• Vehicle identification number
• The surrounding parking location

Save the images somewhere you can access if your phone or computer is lost.

Also confirm:

• Insurance contact information
• Policy number
• Deductible
• Comprehensive coverage
• Roadside-assistance information
• Lender information, if applicable

Do not assume every type of storm or flood damage is covered. Review your individual auto policy or contact your insurer before hurricane season.

The time to reposition your vehicle is before:

• Tropical-storm-force winds arrive
• Streets begin flooding
• Bridges close
• Emergency services suspend operations
• Visibility becomes poor
• Officials tell residents to stay off the roads

A better parking spot is not worth driving through dangerous conditions.

Once the storm begins, remain in a safe shelter and monitor official information.

Do not immediately walk to or start the vehicle after conditions improve.

First look for:

• Downed power lines
• Floodwater
• Unstable trees
• Hanging branches
• Broken glass
• Nails and roofing materials
• Fuel leaks
• Structural damage
• Displaced wildlife
• Emergency crews
• Local access restrictions

If the vehicle was surrounded by floodwater, assume it may have been flooded even if the water has receded.

Do not start a flood-damaged vehicle. Starting it can cause additional mechanical or electrical damage and may create a safety hazard.

Photograph the condition before moving or cleaning anything, then contact your insurer and a qualified repair professional.

Assuming Every Garage Is Safe

A garage in a storm surge or flood-prone area can trap water around the vehicle.

Parking Under a Tree for Protection

The tree may become the greatest threat to the vehicle.

Moving the Car Too Late

Driving after winds or flooding begin creates more risk than leaving the vehicle where it is.

Depending on a Car Cover

A cover does not stop floodwater, falling trees or major debris.

Using an Underground Garage Near the Coast

Below-grade parking areas can fill with water.

Leaving Roof Cargo Installed

Roof boxes, racks and loose equipment increase exposure to wind.

Parking Where Another Vehicle Blocks Your Exit

The evacuation vehicle should remain accessible.

Leaving Important Supplies in a Different Vehicle

Medications, documents and essential equipment should travel with the vehicle your household will use.

Ignoring Previous Flooding

Past street, driveway or garage flooding is an important warning.

Before the storm:

• Check your evacuation and flood risk
• Choose a parking location
• Confirm permission if using someone else’s property
• Move the vehicle before weather deteriorates
• Fill the tank or charge the vehicle
• Remove roof cargo and loose exterior accessories
• Remove loose items from truck beds
• Close every window and the sunroof
• Secure objects inside the garage
• Avoid trees and power lines
• Avoid underground or low-lying parking
• Photograph the vehicle
• Save insurance information
• Lock the vehicle
• Set the parking brake
• Keep the keys accessible
• Make sure the evacuation vehicle can leave first

Is a garage the safest place for a car during a hurricane?

A dry, enclosed and structurally sound garage is generally the best option for protection from wind and debris. It is not the best option if the garage is vulnerable to storm surge or flooding.

Should I park my car in a parking garage during a hurricane?

An approved elevated parking facility may be useful when your home is flood-prone. Confirm that storm parking is permitted. Avoid underground levels and exposed rooftop spaces when a safer interior elevated level is available.

Is it safe to park under a carport?

A well-constructed carport may offer limited protection from rain and small debris, but it is less protective than an enclosed garage. Do not use a visibly damaged or poorly secured carport.

Should I park close to my house?

Parking near a substantial structure may reduce some wind exposure, but avoid windows, roof edges, awnings, signs and anything that could fall. Do not park close to the house if the area is vulnerable to flooding.

Is it safe to leave my car in the driveway during a hurricane?

A driveway may be your best available option if it is on higher ground and clear of overhanging trees, power lines and objects that could fall or blow into the vehicle. Check whether the driveway or nearby street has flooded before. If it is low-lying or exposed to storm surge, move the car to a permitted location on higher ground early, while travel is still safe. Never delay an evacuation or drive through floodwater to protect a vehicle.

Can I leave my electric vehicle in the garage during a hurricane?

Before the storm, a dry garage outside the flood-risk area may protect an undamaged EV. If the vehicle is exposed to floodwater or its battery may be damaged, do not charge or start it. Follow NHTSA and manufacturer guidance and keep a damaged lithium-ion vehicle away from structures and combustible materials.

Should I cover the vehicle with a tarp?

No. An improvised tarp can detach, damage the vehicle or become windblown debris. Moving the vehicle to a safer location is more effective.

Should I park on the grass to get away from trees?

Grass and soil may become saturated, muddy or unstable. Firm pavement on higher ground is generally preferable when available.

What if I cannot move the vehicle somewhere safer?

Choose the least exposed available location. Avoid flood-prone areas, trees, power lines, damaged structures and loose objects. Secure the vehicle, photograph it and do not put yourself at risk once conditions deteriorate.

Use this guide with:

• Vehicle Preparation for preventive maintenance and seasonal planning
• Vehicle Prep List for the complete inspection checklist
• What to Keep in Your Car During Hurricane Season for permanent and grab-and-load supplies
• How Much Gas Do You Need for a Hurricane Evacuation? for fuel calculations
• Vehicle Gear for roadside and recovery equipment
• Vehicle Loadout for organizing passengers and cargo
• Vehicle Readiness for final departure preparations
• Evacuation Planning for destinations, timing and alternate routes

The best place to park your car during a hurricane is not simply the closest garage.

It is the safest available location that addresses the actual threats facing your property.

Choose a dry, enclosed garage when it is structurally sound and outside the flood-risk area.

If flooding is the greater threat, relocate the vehicle to approved higher ground before conditions deteriorate.

Avoid trees, power lines, loose objects and damaged structures.

Prepare the vehicle, photograph it and keep the keys accessible.

Then leave it where it is once the storm begins.

A vehicle can be repaired or replaced.

Your safety cannot.

Prepare early. Evacuate smart. Recover safely.