Palm Beach County Hurricane Shelter Options & Prep

Palm Beach County officials have outlined shelter options and preparedness resources for residents as hurricane season continues.

Residents requiring special assistance during a major emergency can register for the Special Needs Shelter. Early registration is essential before a storm approaches. Individuals with disabilities who do not qualify for the Special Needs Shelter Program, live in an evacuation zone, and only need transportation to a shelter should contact Palm Tran Connection for the Special Transportation Assistance Program at 561-649-9848 or 877-870-9849.

The Pet Friendly Shelter is located at the West Boynton Recreational Center, 6000 Northtree Blvd., Lake Worth. This shelter accommodates Palm Beach County residents in mandatory evacuation zones, mobile homes, or substandard housing and requires proof of residency. Due to COVID-19 protocols, pet owners cannot stay at the Pet Friendly Shelter. Owners may drop off pets and then proceed to the general population shelter at Park Vista High School, adjacent to the pet facility. The shelter does not accept equines, livestock, small barnyard animals, exotic pets, or reptiles. Aggressive dogs may be refused if deemed unsafe. More information and pre-registration are available through PBC Animal Care and Control.

Palm Beach County operates multiple general hurricane evacuation shelters designed to withstand hurricane-force winds and storm surge. These shelters serve as a refuge for those unable to remain home or find alternative accommodations. Shelter opening times and specific locations can vary based on storm circumstances, and not all shelters open for every event. Residents should monitor local media for updates. Palm Beach County and Palm Beach County Schools jointly manage these shelters. Basic meals and beverages are provided; individuals with special dietary needs must bring their own supplies. Shelters offer basic first aid only; cots and medical care are not provided.

Residents planning to use a shelter should prepare a go-bag. Essential items include personal protective equipment (face coverings, gloves, hand sanitizer), a three-day supply of water (three gallons per person), prescription and emergency medications, special-diet foods and snacks, bedding materials, at least two changes of comfortable clothing, a flashlight with extra batteries, a cellphone with a charger, a battery-powered radio with headphones, and important documents such as identification, medical records, insurance information, and birth certificates. Photocopied valuable documents, eyeglasses, hearing aids, toiletries, and entertainment items are also recommended. Include special items for elderly or disabled family members. Due to limited electrical outlets, chargers and cables for electronic devices are essential.