In response to an incoming hurricane, alligators usually find shelter where they can move in and out easily, usually in caves or burrows under mud or a canal. To stay safe, some alligators might altogether change foraging patterns before the storm.

Alligators are remarkably resilient to hurricanes, thanks to sensors in their skin that detect subtle changes in barometric pressure and water vibrations. When a storm approaches, they typically "hunker down" by retreating to deep water or seeking shelter in burrows, caves, and holes under mud or canal banks. These locations offer stability against high winds and flying debris. While they are powerful swimmers, smaller alligators can still be displaced or swept away by storm surges and heavy flooding. Once the storm passes and floodwaters rise, alligators often appear in unexpected places, such as residential swimming pools, flooded streets, or drainage ditches, as they move through the temporary "water highways" created by the rain. Experts emphasize that they are generally not more aggressive during this time, but they are often stressed and disoriented, making it crucial for Florida residents to maintain a safe distance during the post-storm cleanup.