A parking lot or field where you wait out a short hazard, most often a tsunami warning. Not staffed, no supplies, primarily outdoors. Restrooms opened where possible. Go only if you have nowhere else safe to wait.

A building an engineer has assessed as least vulnerable to storm damage. It is not built or retrofitted to a hurricane shelter standard. There is no backup power, so bring batteries for medical devices and a cooler for refrigerated medication. Bring your own food and water. Pets allowed leashed or crated, and you supply everything they need.

Opened when a hazard forces you out or blocks you from getting home. Usually a gym or multi-purpose room. Supplies are limited at first, so bring your own food and necessities. Cots and food may appear if it stays open a while. Restrooms and water available.

Opened after a disaster when people cannot return home for an extended period. Stocked with food, hygiene items and blankets. Showers available. Staffed to register people, support basic needs and connect you to recovery resources.