Get the Facts on How Severe Weather Can Affect Cancer Treatment

The uncertainty of hurricanes and tropical storms can add to the stress of cancer treatment. Patients often worry whether appointments will be canceled, medications will be available or if missing treatment could affect their care. 

The good news? Cancer centers like Moffitt Cancer Center have comprehensive emergency preparedness plans designed to protect patients and ensure continuity of care whenever possible. 

Here are some common myths and the facts patients should know before, during and after a storm. 

Myth: My treatment will automatically be canceled if a hurricane is approaching. 

Fact: Decisions are made carefully based on patient safety and storm conditions. 

Not every storm results in canceled appointments. Clinical teams continuously monitor weather conditions and work closely with emergency management officials to determine whether it is safe to continue operations. 

If schedule changes become necessary, patients are contacted directly with instructions about rescheduling or alternative care plans. 

What patients should do: 

• Keep your contact information up to date.  

• Monitor MyMoffitt, text messages, phone calls and email for updates.  

• Avoid assuming your appointment has been canceled unless you are notified.  

Myth: Missing one treatment will affect my outcome. 

Fact: Your care team carefully evaluates every treatment schedule. 

While cancer treatments are designed to follow a specific schedule, an occasional delay caused by severe weather does not automatically reduce the effectiveness of treatment. 

If weather disrupts your appointment, your oncology team will review your treatment plan and determine the safest way to resume therapy as quickly as possible. 

Every decision is individualized based on: 

• Cancer type  

• Treatment plan  

• Overall health  

• Length of the delay  

Your care team will communicate any changes and explain next steps. 

Myth: I’ll run out of my medications if the storm causes closures. 

Fact: Planning ahead helps prevent interruptions. 

Patients should avoid waiting until the last minute to refill medications. 

Before storm season or whenever severe weather is forecasted talk with your care team or specialty pharmacy about: 

• Refilling prescriptions early when appropriate  

• Keeping an updated medication list  

• Storing medications properly during power outages  

• Knowing who to contact if medication questions arise  

Myth: Every patient is affected the same way by treatment delays. 

Fact: Every treatment plan is different. 

Some therapies can safely be delayed, while others may require more immediate attention. Your oncology team considers multiple factors before making any scheduling decisions. 

Patients should never stop medications or change treatment schedules without first speaking with their care team.