Blizzards, coastal storms, and flooding are a fact of life for residents of Boston. We have information to help you before, during, and after a natural disaster. Please note: if you're in the middle of an emergency, dial 9-1-1.
guide
Dealing with natural disasters
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Need help now?
Contact: 311
If you're experiencing an emergency, please dial 9-1-1. If you are dealing with a non-emergency situation in the City of Boston, please contact BOS:311.
REPORTING POWER OUTAGES
Please contact your utility company to report any outages. You can also call 3-1-1 with any concerns or questions.
Flooding
Contact: Environment
Preparing for a flood
We put together multiple resources to help you better protect your property.
Tips for dealing with a flood
We have tips in the event of a storm that creates a flooding event in Boston.
Becoming more flood resilient
There are many different ways to strengthen and protect coastal communities.
Understanding flood hazard areas
A functioning floodplain is important for the health of the surrounding ecosystem.
Learn about flood insurance
Trying to figure out flood insurance on your own can be frustrating. But we’re here to help.
Snowstorms
You can find more tips about dealing with snow in the City through our Winter in Boston guide:
What to do with your car when it snows
Be aware of what to do before, during, and after a snowstorm.
Snow emergency parking
We don't allow parking on certain roads during declared emergencies.
What to do with your trash when it snows
Crews have a tough time reaching trash barrels and recycling carts.
Preparing for a hurricane
Learn about what actions to take when you receive a Hurricane Watch or Hurricane Warning.
Maps
Emergency shelter map
Type in your address to locate the nearest neighborhood emergency shelter.
Federal flood hazard maps
Flood hazard maps, also called Flood Insurance Rate Maps, show levels of flood risk.
Hurricane evacuation map
Find out if your address is in a hurricane evacuation zone.
Restricted streets and snow emergency parking map
You can also find parking lots available during snow emergencies.
Cold and heat
Contact: 311
Stay safe during extreme cold
When you know severely cold weather is coming, remember to take steps to prepare:
- Take caution when using portable heating devices like space heaters.
- Cover exposed skin and watch out for frostbite.
- Make sure the exhaust pipe on your car is clear of snow, as well as your house's heater vent.
- To prepare for power outages, stock up on batteries, flashlights, and canned goods.
Heat emergencies
During periods of extreme heat, we'll declare a heat emergency and open community centers as cooling centers.
- BCYF Community Centers become cooling centers during a heat emergency.
- Never leave children and pets alone in cars. Cars heat up quickly even if the windows are slightly open.
- Drink more water no matter how active you are.
- Adults and children should use sunscreen containing an SPF-15 or higher and wear protective, loose-fitting clothing.
