New to Grassy Key and wondering how storm prep really works here? You’re not alone. Living in the Middle Keys means planning ahead for hurricane season, understanding local evacuation rules, and setting up utilities the right way. This quick-start guide gives you the exact steps, links, and local tips you need to prepare, ride out watches and warnings, and return safely after a storm. Let’s dive in.

Know your storm season and location

Grassy Key sits within the City of Marathon around mile markers 57 to 60 on U.S. 1. That location matters for evacuation timing and re-entry. Hurricane season runs June 1 through November 30, so set reminders to refresh supplies and update plans each spring. Keep your property records and insurance info handy all year.

How Monroe County evacuations work

Monroe County uses a timed, phased evacuation by zone. The goal is to reduce traffic backups and help you leave safely.

Find your zone and leave early

Learn your official evacuation zone and follow County orders when issued. The County posts zone updates and timing on its Evacuation Information page. If conditions look bad, it’s smart to leave before crowds build. Fill your tank, choose a mainland destination, and bring meds, cash, IDs, and a go-bag.

Shelters and pets

For Category 1 to 2 storms, Monroe County operates general population shelters, and they are pet-friendly. Check current sites and rules on the County’s Shelters page and review pet requirements on Pets at Shelters. For Category 3 or higher threats, evacuation to the mainland is mandatory and the County does not open in-county shelters.

Re-entry stickers

Staged re-entry helps first responders restore critical services. Get your barcoded resident re-entry vehicle sticker before any emergency is declared. Details are on the County’s Resident Re-entry Sticker page. Keep the sticker, your ID, and a utility bill in the vehicle you plan to use.

Routes out of the Keys

U.S. 1 is the only continuous road through the Keys, with Card Sound Road as an alternate connection to the mainland. During evacuations, expect heavy traffic and possible fuel shortages. Leave early and do not start driving without a chosen destination.

Utilities and communications

Storms can interrupt power, water, sewer, and communications. Set up accounts and save outage resources now.

Power: Florida Keys Electric Cooperative (FKEC)

The Middle Keys, including Marathon and Grassy Key, are served by FKEC. Outages are common after high winds and surge, and full restoration can take time. Review member tips and outage reporting on the FKEC member information page. Keep flashlights, battery chargers, and a plan for refrigerated meds.

Water and sewer: FKAA

The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority supplies drinking water and can operate emergency reverse-osmosis plants if the mainland pipeline is disrupted. Pressure and service can be intermittent after a major storm. See service details and advisories on FKAA drinking water. Store extra water and follow any boil-water notices.

Internet and phone

Service can be spotty after a storm. Many residents keep a backup like a charged hotspot or satellite unit. Keep cords, power banks, and a car charger ready so you can receive alerts and check local updates.

Quick setup checklist for week one

• Create online accounts for FKEC and FKAA and save outage-report links and your account numbers.
• Assemble a paper folder with IDs, insurance, mortgage, and utility info.
• Photograph your home and boat as a baseline.
• Stock a basic go-bag for each person and pet.
• Decide where you will go on the mainland if an evacuation is called.
• Get your resident re-entry sticker and keep it in your primary vehicle.

Secure your home and boat

Small steps now prevent big losses later.

Wind protection and permits

Use approved hurricane shutters or impact-rated windows and doors. Follow City of Marathon and Monroe County permitting for any improvements. Clear gutters, trim dead limbs, and secure outdoor furniture before a watch turns into a warning.

Flood and insurance basics

Much of the Keys sits in coastal flood zones, and storm surge is a real risk. Review your flood policy, elevation documents, and any downstairs enclosure rules that may affect coverage or permits. Keep digital and paper copies of policies and recent photos.

Your go-bag and supplies

Pack at least 72 hours of essentials: water, shelf-stable food, medications, first aid, copies of IDs and insurance, cash, chargers, flashlight, and a NOAA weather radio. Use the Ready.gov family plan guide to create contacts and meet-up plans.

After the storm: return and recovery

Only return when officials say it is safe. Expect checkpoints and staged re-entry.

Safety and documentation

Bring your re-entry sticker, ID, and protective gear. Photograph and video all damage before making permanent repairs. Tarp or dry out only what you must to prevent further loss and save receipts for your insurer.

Assistance and avoiding scams

If a disaster is declared, you may be able to register for assistance through state and federal programs. Start with Florida’s information hub at FloridaDisaster.org for updates on FEMA registration, SBA loans, and local Disaster Recovery Centers. Hire only licensed contractors, get written estimates, and be cautious of door-to-door offers.

Debris and water safety

Follow County instructions for debris sorting and placement. Watch for FKAA and local boil-water advisories and avoid floodwater. Expect phased restoration of trash service and sewer systems.

Owner tip: rentals and guest communication

If you operate a vacation rental, build storm-ready procedures into your house manual. Prepare prewritten guest messages for watches, warnings, evacuations, and post-storm status. Clear instructions reduce confusion and protect your property and your guests.

Ready to feel confident about buying, owning, or renting in Grassy Key? Connect with local expertise and a practical plan through Jessica Borraccino so your property is prepared now and market-ready when you need it.

FAQs

When does hurricane season affect Grassy Key residents?

• Hurricane season runs June 1 through November 30 each year. Prepare in spring, refresh supplies monthly, and track County updates during active systems.

How do I know when to evacuate from Grassy Key?

• Follow Monroe County’s phased orders for your zone and leave when your zone is called or earlier if conditions worsen. Check the County’s Evacuation Information page for official updates.

Are Monroe County shelters pet-friendly during storms?

• For Category 1 to 2 events, general population shelters are pet-friendly. Review current sites and pet rules on Shelters and Pets at Shelters.

Where do I get a resident re-entry sticker?

• Pick up your barcoded sticker before any emergency is declared. See program details at the County’s Re-entry Sticker page and local issuance locations via the Monroe County Tax Collector.

Who provides power and water service in Grassy Key?

• Power is provided by Florida Keys Electric Cooperative; water is provided by Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority. Review account setup and outage resources at FKEC member info and FKAA drinking water.

What should I pack in my hurricane go-bag?

• Include 72 hours of water and food, medications, copies of IDs and insurance, cash, chargers, flashlight, first aid, NOAA radio, and pet supplies. Use the Ready.gov checklist to customize it for your household.