The ultimate IT hurricane preparedness guide for businesses

Explore our top tips for preparing your business’s technology for hurricane season

 

The Atlantic hurricane season is here, and NOAA is predicting another above-normal season in 2025: between 17 and 25 named storms, 8 to 13 hurricanes, and 4 to 7 major hurricanes (Category 3 or higher). With severe storms more frequent and powerful than in years past, your business must be well-prepared. [1]

Even if you’re not in the direct path of a hurricane, the ripple effects, power outages, flooding, and network disruptions can wreak havoc on your computers, communication systems, and IT infrastructure. These disruptions can cost you in the short term and also damage customer trust long after the storm passes.

It’s estimated that 25% to 40% of small businesses do not reopen after a disaster. [2] That’s why having a clear IT preparedness plan is essential to protect your business and ensure you can resume operations as quickly as possible.

Continue reading to learn the steps you should take to prepare and protect your business before disaster strikes. 

 

1. Create an IT inventory

In the event of a hurricane, all of your business’s assets are at risk: critical data, networks, IT equipment, and more.

Creating a detailed IT inventory helps your team recover faster. Your inventory should include:

• Where your technology assets are located
• Which assets are critical to operations
• Whether assets are owned, leased, or insured
• Responsibilities and coverage for leased assets if they are damaged

 

2. Backup all critical data

High winds and flooding can easily destroy on-site servers and computers. To safeguard against on-premises damage, ensure that all data is backed up offsite.

Many businesses rely on scheduled backups, but when a storm is approaching, it’s wise to run extra backups to ensure nothing is missed. Consider a layered backup strategy that includes:

• Local backups for quick recovery
• Cloud backups for offsite protection
• Server and desktop backups to cover all endpoints

 

Working with an IT partner ensures your backup system meets your business’s needs and compliance requirements.

 

3. Consider the cloud

Cloud-based systems are one of the most reliable options for disaster recovery. By running software and storing data in the cloud, your team can securely access business-critical systems from anywhere with an internet connection.

The cloud helps you resume operations faster, even if your physical office is inaccessible or without power.

 

4. Keep your team and IT partner informed

Communication is critical during a disaster. Implement a clear communication system so your team can:

• Stay informed about office closures or outages
• Share project updates
• Report their ability to work remotely

 

It’s also important to alert your IT partner in advance. A remote IT provider may not know about the storm unless you notify them, and giving them notice ensures they’re ready to assist with recovery if needed.

 

5. Prepare your team for remote work

Many businesses gained experience with remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic. Apply those lessons to hurricane preparedness. If your office is inaccessible, your employees should be ready to work from home or another safe location.

While you will want to resume business operations as soon as possible, an average power outage in Florida lasts three business days. [3] Keep in mind that if your office space has damage or is without power, your employees’ homes may also be experiencing these effects. Provide your team with the tools and clear instructions they need to communicate with you about their ability to work elsewhere successfully.

Be ready before the storm hits

Disasters like hurricanes are unpredictable, but preparing your IT systems doesn’t have to be. With the right technology, processes, and support in place, your business can weather the storm and recover quickly.

 

Looking for a managed IT partner to help protect your business? 

Our team of trained and experienced IT professionals has been providing IT services to small and medium-sized businesses across Central Florida for nearly 10 years.

We offer a wide range of services and packages, including our IT security package, professional IT package, and managed IT services.

 

 

Ready to protect your business before the next storm?
Contact us today

 

1: NOAA | NOAA predicts above-normal 2025 Atlantic hurricane season
2: FEMA | Stay in Business After a Disaster by Planning Ahead
3: GenerX Generators | The Truth About Power Outages in Florida