Food Safety and Inspection Service: Severe storms and hurricanes

Hurricanes and severe storms may cause extended power failures, flooding, and disruptions to water supplies. A closed refrigerator generally maintains safe temperatures for about four hours; a full freezer may last approximately 48 hours if unopened.

Food contaminated by floodwater or held at unsafe temperatures can remain hazardous even if it smells normal. Use USDA and public-health guidance to decide what must be discarded.

RECOMMENDED RESOURCES

USDA FSIS — A Consumer’s Guide to Food Safety: Severe Storms and Hurricanes

Food-safety planning and recovery guidance for severe storms and hurricanes.

USDA FSIS — Food Safety in an Emergency

USDA advice for evaluating food safety during and after emergencies.

CDC — Food and Water Safety During Power Outages and Floods

Public-health guidance for food and drinking water following disasters.

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