What to Do With Your Pool After a Hurricane or Tropical Storm
By Judson, owner of Manasota Pool Service | Last updated November 2026
Quick answer: After a hurricane, check for electrical hazards before touching the pool or equipment. Then remove large debris by hand or net, lower the water level if it overflowed, clean the baskets and filter, and only restore power once the equipment is dry. Shock and rebalance the water, and don't swim until the water is clear and chemically safe.
Step 1: Make sure the area is safe
Safety comes before cleanup:
- Look for downed power lines near the pool, deck or enclosure. If you see any, stay away and call your utility.
- Don't touch pool equipment if it's wet, underwater, or was flooded.
- Check the screen enclosure for bent frames, loose panels or overhead hazards before walking underneath.
- Watch for wildlife. Snakes, frogs and other animals often end up in pools and on decks after storms.
Step 2: Remove debris from the pool
Use a leaf rake or skimmer net to pull out leaves, branches and trash. Don't run the pump to clear heavy debris, because it can clog the plumbing and damage the pump. Get the big stuff out by hand first.
Step 3: Check the water level
Heavy rain often overfills pools. If the water is above the middle of the skimmer opening, lower it to a normal level once equipment is safe to run. Never drain the pool completely, since high groundwater after a storm can lift an empty pool out of the ground.
Step 4: Inspect and restart the equipment
Before turning power back on:
- Make sure the pump, motor, heater and electrical components are completely dry.
- If equipment was submerged, have it inspected by a licensed pool contractor or electrician before using it.
- Empty the skimmer and pump baskets.
- Clean or backwash the filter, which will likely be packed with debris.
Once it's safe, restore power and run the pump continuously until the water clears.
Step 5: Shock and rebalance the water
Storm water brings in dirt, organic matter, phosphates and contaminants that use up chlorine quickly.
- Test the water.
- Shock the pool with a heavy dose of chlorine.
- Balance pH and alkalinity.
- Brush the walls and floor, then vacuum once the debris has settled.
Expect it to take a few days of filtering and treatment for the water to clear fully.
Can you swim in your pool after a hurricane?
Not right away. Wait until the water is clear, debris is removed, and chlorine and pH are back in safe ranges. Floodwater can carry sewage, bacteria and chemicals, so don't swim if your pool was flooded by outside water until it has been properly treated.
Why does my pool turn green after a storm?
Rain dilutes chlorine, and storm debris adds organic matter and nutrients that feed algae. Combined with Florida heat and power outages that stop circulation, algae can bloom within a day or two. A green pool after a storm is common and fixable with shock, brushing and filtering.
Post-storm pool cleanup in Englewood and South Venice
Manasota Pool Service helps homeowners throughout Englewood, Manasota Key and South Venice recover after storms. Our Peace of Mind plan includes priority cleanup after storms, and we send a photo report after every visit, which is especially helpful for seasonal residents checking on their homes from up north. For equipment damage, we'll let you know right away so a licensed pool contractor can make repairs.
Get a free quote or see our plans.
Frequently asked questions
Should I run my pool pump after a hurricane?
Only after removing large debris and confirming the equipment is completely dry and safe. If it was submerged, have it inspected first.
Should I drain my pool after a hurricane?
No. Lower an overfilled pool to normal level, but never drain it fully. Groundwater can lift an empty pool.
When is it safe to swim after a hurricane?
When the water is clear, debris is gone, and chlorine and pH are in safe ranges. Flooded pools need full treatment first.
How do I fix a green pool after a storm?
Remove debris, clean the filter, shock the pool, balance the water, brush, and run the pump continuously until it clears.
What if my pool equipment was underwater?
Don't turn it on. Have a licensed pool contractor or electrician inspect it before restoring power.