When Floridians prepare for hurricane season, most people think about batteries, flashlights, bottled water and plywood. But have you ever wondered what happens behind the scenes to keep safe drinking water flowing before, during and after a storm?

Water and wastewater utilities are considered critical infrastructure, meaning utility professionals are preparing for hurricanes long before a storm appears in the forecast. As we enter the heart of this year’s hurricane season, the Florida Governmental Utility Authority (FGUA), is taking the necessary steps to prepare and protect its water systems and infrastructure for the next possible storm. 

Here are a few things every resident should know:

Before the storm

• Utility crews prepare well in advance. Treatment plants, pumping stations and wastewater facilities are inspected and secured before severe weather arrives.
• Backup generators are tested and fueled. Many critical facilities have emergency power systems to help maintain operations during power outages.
• Emergency response plans are activated. Staff monitor storms closely and prepare equipment and personnel so they can respond quickly if damage occurs.

During the storm

• Your utility continues operating whenever it is safe to do so. Employees work around the clock to monitor water and wastewater systems.
• Water quality remains a top priority. Drinking water continues to be treated and tested to meet strict state and federal safety standards.
• Crews respond as conditions allow. Once it is safe, FGUA personnel begin inspecting infrastructure and making repairs as quickly as possible.

After the storm

• Most customers continue receiving safe drinking water. However, if a significant loss of pressure or damage to the distribution system occurs, a precautionary boil water notice may be issued until testing confirms the water is safe. All water outages are posted immediately to the FGUA website.
• If a boil water notice becomes necessary, you'll be notified. FGUA uses a Reverse 911 calling system, its website, local news outlets, and other communication channels to keep customers informed.
• Water service restoration may take time in heavily impacted areas. Utility crews work continuously to restore normal operations as safely and quickly as possible.

How you can prepare

Before hurricane season reaches its peak, take a few simple steps to protect your home and family:

• Know where your home's main water shutoff valve is located.
• Store at least one gallon of drinking water per person, per day, for several days as recommended by emergency management officials.
• Follow your local utility on social media for important updates.
• Charge electronic devices before the storm arrives.
• Report water main breaks or wastewater overflows if it is safe to do so.
• Never remove manhole covers or attempt to access utility equipment after a storm.

Remember the basics

Even after a hurricane, it's important to continue using water wisely.

• Delay unnecessary irrigation until normal conditions return.
• Check your home for leaks that may have developed during the storm.
• Follow any boil water notices exactly as directed.
• Stay informed through official FGUA communications rather than rumors on social media.

Hurricanes can test every part of our community's infrastructure, but they also demonstrate the importance of preparation. While residents are protecting their homes and families, FGUA’s utility professionals are working behind the scenes to help ensure one of life's most essential resources…safe drinking water…continues to be there when you need it most.

The Florida Governmental Utility Authority (FGUA) owns and operates almost 100 water and wastewater utility systems in 15 Florida counties, providing service to more than 120,000 connections (water and/or sewer.) Counties served by FGUA include Citrus, Hillsborough, Lake, Marion, Orange, Pasco, Polk, Seminole, Hardee, Lee, Alachua, Flagler, Putnam, Volusia and Nassau.