How to Protect an Above-Ground Pool During a Storm
Updated: Oct 15
Storms can make a mess of an above-ground pool surprisingly quickly.
One afternoon, your pool is clean and ready for swimming. By the next morning, the water is full of leaves, the pool cover has disappeared across the yard, or the pump is sitting in standing water.
And if you're dealing with a tropical storm or hurricane, the concerns go well beyond a messy pool.
The good news is that a few sensible precautions can reduce the risk of damage. You don't need to buy expensive storm-proof accessories or completely drain your pool every time bad weather approaches.
In fact, some common storm-preparation tips can do more harm than good.
Here's what to check before the weather arrives, what to leave alone during a storm, and how to get your above-ground pool back into shape afterward.
Quick Answer: How Do You Protect an Above-Ground Pool During a Storm?
To protect an above-ground pool during a storm, remove loose accessories, store the solar cover, secure nearby furniture, check the pool's water level and protect electrical equipment before dangerous weather arrives. For severe storms, follow the manufacturer's instructions and avoid draining the pool unnecessarily, as the water helps support the structure.
The most important precautions are:
Remove pool toys, floats, loose accessories and removable ladders.
Store the solar cover so strong winds cannot lift it.
Switch off pool equipment safely before severe weather or flooding.
Keep the pool at its normal recommended operating water level.
Remove loose items from the surrounding yard.
Check chlorine and pH before an extended period without filtration.
Wait until conditions are safe before inspecting or cleaning the pool.
If the storm is already approaching, concentrate on the steps you can complete safely. Never risk injury trying to save a pool cover, pump or accessory.
What Should You Do Before a Storm Hits Your Above-Ground Pool?
The best time to prepare your pool is while the weather is still calm.
You don't need to do everything on this list for a passing rain shower, but stronger winds, lightning, heavy rainfall and possible flooding call for more preparation.
Step 1: Remove Loose Pool Accessories
Start with the easiest job: remove anything that could blow around the yard.
This includes:
Pool floats, inflatable toys and loungers
Skimmer nets, vacuum hoses and cleaning poles
Floating chlorine dispensers
Removable pool fountains and lights
Loose solar-cover reels or unattached accessories
Removable ladders and steps, where practical
Store these items in a garage, shed or another secure location.
A lightweight inflatable toy might not seem dangerous, but a strong gust can send it into the pool, fence or nearby equipment. Larger objects can damage the liner, top rail or surrounding property.
If your ladder or steps are permanently attached, don't attempt to dismantle them immediately before the storm. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and make sure the surrounding area is secure.
The same applies to removable robotic pool cleaners. Take them out of the water, clean and store them safely rather than leaving them in the pool throughout severe weather.
Step 2: Secure Furniture and Other Items Around the Pool
Sometimes the biggest danger to your pool isn't the weather itself.
It's everything the weather can blow into it.
Look around the backyard for patio chairs, umbrellas, plant pots, lightweight storage boxes, loose deck boards and other unsecured objects.
Bring smaller items indoors. Secure larger items only where they can be properly anchored without creating another hazard.
Don't throw patio furniture into the pool to keep it from blowing away.
Metal furniture can puncture or scratch a vinyl liner, damage pool fittings or introduce contaminants into the water.
Also check that gates and nearby storage units are securely closed.
If you have overhanging trees, remove dead or hazardous branches well before storm conditions arrive. Larger tree work is best handled by a qualified professional.
Step 3: Decide Whether to Remove Your Pool Cover
This is where the type of cover matters.
A solar cover, a winter cover and a lightweight debris cover aren't designed to handle the same conditions.
Solar Covers
If your pool has a floating solar blanket, remove it and store it before strong winds arrive, while conditions are still safe.
Solar covers are designed to float on the water, not withstand strong wind.
A gust can lift the edge, bunch the cover together or blow it completely out of the pool.
Don't try to secure a normal solar blanket with bricks, ropes or improvised weights.
Lightweight Debris Covers
A lightweight debris cover may help during ordinary weather when it's properly fitted and approved for outdoor use.
However, strong winds can turn a poorly secured cover into a large sail.
For a severe storm, follow the cover manufacturer's wind guidance. Removing and storing a lightweight cover in advance may be safer than trying to hold it down with additional weights.
Avoid improvising with ordinary plastic sheeting or tarps. They can trap water, tear or come loose during strong winds.
Winter Covers
If your pool is already closed for winter, the cover should have its own securing system.
Check its condition and fastenings during calm weather, but don't assume that adding more clips or weights will make it hurricane-proof.
For normal seasonal winds, our guide to keeping an above-ground pool winter cover from blowing off explains how to deal with loose edges, slipping cables and repeated flapping.
During a hurricane or tropical storm, follow the cover manufacturer's specific severe-weather guidance. Never go outside during dangerous winds to adjust a cover.
Step 4: Protect the Pool Pump, Filter and Electrical Equipment
Your pump and filter deserve particular attention when strong storms or flooding are forecast.
Pool equipment may include:
A cartridge or sand filter pump
A saltwater chlorinator
A pool heater or heat pump
Timers and electrical control units
Pool lighting or other powered accessories
If severe weather, flooding or an evacuation is expected, shut down the equipment using the appropriate controls and circuit breaker while the area is still dry and safe.
If equipment is designed to be disconnected and stored, you may be able to move it to a dry location before the storm, following the manufacturer's instructions.
Never operate a pool pump while it is wrapped tightly in plastic. Pump motors need appropriate ventilation, and trapping heat can cause damage.
Similarly, don't attempt to unplug equipment, operate switches or disconnect hoses while standing in water.
If flooding is already occurring around the electrical supply, stay away and contact a qualified electrician.
What if You Have a Saltwater Pool?
Saltwater pool owners should also protect the chlorinator and its electrical control unit.
A saltwater system won't continue producing chlorine when the power is off.
Before an expected extended outage, check the pool's chlorine level while the circulation system is still working. Don't wait until the pool is already cloudy or green before discovering that chlorine has dropped.
Once the storm passes, inspect the pump, cell housing, wiring and control equipment before restoring operation.
Step 5: Check the Pool Water Level, but Don't Drain It
One of the biggest mistakes you can make before a severe storm is draining your above-ground pool unnecessarily.
It might seem logical to remove water if heavy rain is coming, but the water inside an above-ground pool plays an important role in supporting the walls and liner.
Removing too much can leave the structure more vulnerable.
For most installed above-ground pools, the sensible approach is to maintain the normal operating water level recommended by the manufacturer.
If your pool uses a skimmer, that often means the water sits around the middle of the skimmer opening during normal operation. The exact level depends on the pool and filtration system.
Don't completely drain or substantially lower your pool just because a hurricane or heavy rain is forecast.
If the water level rises above the normal range after the storm, you can assess whether any adjustment is necessary once the surrounding area is safe.
What About an Intex or Bestway Frame Pool?
The same general warning applies: don't suddenly empty a filled frame pool in preparation for high winds without following its manufacturer's instructions.
However, some seasonal pools are designed to be disassembled and stored rather than left outdoors in severe conditions or freezing weather.
Check your particular model's instructions. If dismantling is required, it should be planned well ahead of dangerous weather, not attempted when a storm is already arriving.
Step 6: Test the Water Before an Extended Storm
Strong storms can bring debris, rainwater and power outages that affect pool-water quality.
If you have enough time before the weather arrives, test the water.
Check:
Free chlorine
pH
Total alkalinity, if needed
Cyanuric acid (CYA), particularly if chlorine levels have been difficult to maintain
If chlorine is already below the appropriate level for your pool, correct it while your circulation system is operating normally.
For a routine check, EASYTEST 7-Way Pool Test Strips are a convenient option.
If you need more precise chlorine measurements or you're troubleshooting unusual readings, our Taylor K-2006 Pool Test Kit review explains when a liquid testing kit is worth considering.
You may see advice telling pool owners to add large amounts of shock before every hurricane. That isn't automatically necessary for every pool.
If an extended outage is expected, you may need to prepare the sanitizer level in advance, but the treatment should reflect your test results, pool volume and the product's instructions.
Don't add a large chemical dose immediately before switching off circulation, and never mix pool chemicals together.
If you're unsure whether shocking is appropriate, our Pool Shock 101 guide explains when shock is useful and how to apply it correctly.
Step 7: Check Drainage Around the Pool
Heavy rain can cause problems outside the pool as well as inside it.
Pay particular attention to areas where rainwater regularly collects near the pool wall, support legs or foundation pads.
If the surrounding ground becomes saturated, you may notice:
Water collecting against the pool wall
Soil washing away around support legs
Foundation blocks becoming exposed
Water running toward the pool from a higher part of the yard
Drainage from the roof or patio flowing directly toward the pool
These are problems worth addressing before storm season, rather than waiting until heavy rain is forecast.
Keep existing drainage channels clear and redirect ordinary roof runoff away from the pool where practical.
Don't dig around the support legs or attempt emergency ground repairs during a storm.
If your pool has a recurring drainage or erosion problem, have the site assessed before the next period of severe weather.
Step 8: Photograph the Pool Before Severe Weather
If a major storm or hurricane is forecast, take a few photographs of the pool and equipment while conditions are safe.
Capture the pool wall, frame, top rail, pump, filter, nearby decking and the ground surrounding the structure.
If something is damaged, those photographs may help you compare its condition before and after the storm and document a possible insurance claim.
This only takes a few minutes and can save a lot of uncertainty afterward.
What Should You Do During a Thunderstorm or Hurricane?
Once dangerous weather arrives, pool preparation is finished.
Your priority is staying safe, not trying to rescue equipment or keep leaves out of the water.
If you hear thunder, leave the pool and surrounding area immediately and move to a suitable enclosed building.
The National Weather Service recommends staying in a safe shelter for at least 30 minutes after the last thunder before returning outdoors.
Don't go outside to:
Retrieve a cover that's blowing away
Empty a skimmer basket
Adjust pool water levels
Secure a loose ladder
Inspect the pump during flooding
Remove branches that have fallen into the pool
A damaged pool cover is frustrating, but it can be replaced.
If local authorities issue an evacuation warning or order, follow their instructions rather than spending additional time preparing the pool.
How to Check and Clean Your Above-Ground Pool After a Storm
The storm has passed, the wind has settled, and you're finally able to see what happened to your backyard.
It's tempting to grab the skimmer net and start pulling leaves out immediately.
Before doing that, check the pool and surrounding area for damage. There may be problems that aren't obvious until you look more closely.
Step 1: Check the Area for Safety Hazards
Before approaching the pool, look for fallen power lines, broken branches, damaged fencing, standing floodwater and exposed electrical equipment.
Don't approach fallen electrical cables or touch anything that may be electrically energized.
If the area has flooded, avoid walking through standing water to reach the pump, filter or electrical controls.
Also check that the pool's ladder, gate and other access barriers are secure. Keep children and pets away until you're satisfied the area is safe.
If there is any possibility of electrical damage, arrange a professional inspection before touching or using the equipment.
Step 2: Inspect the Pool Wall, Frame and Liner
Once it's safe to approach, walk around the outside of the pool and look carefully at its structure.
Check for:
Bent or displaced metal-frame legs
A steel wall that appears buckled or unusually bowed
A top rail that has shifted or separated
Support blocks that have moved or sunk into the ground
Soil washed away from underneath the pool
Tears, leaks or unusual wrinkles in the liner
Water escaping near seams, fittings or hoses
A pool that appears to be leaning or has a visibly damaged support structure should not be used.
Don't attempt to straighten a bent frame or reinforce a failing pool wall while it's full of water without professional advice.
If the surrounding ground has washed away, the pool may need an inspection even if the water still looks perfectly clean.
Step 3: Inspect the Pump and Filter Before Restoring Power
If the pump and filter were shut down before the storm, don't automatically switch everything back on.
First, check for visible damage to the pump housing, electrical cords, connections, hoses and filter tank.
Look for:
Cracked pump housings
Damaged electrical cables or plugs
Loose or disconnected hoses
Water inside equipment compartments
Broken fittings or leaking unions
A sand filter tank or valve that has shifted
If electrical equipment was submerged or may have been exposed to floodwater, do not switch it on.
Have it inspected by a qualified electrician or suitable service professional. Equipment can remain dangerous even when the outside appears dry.
If everything is safe and undamaged, restore operation according to your equipment manufacturer's instructions. Prime the pump if required and check that water is flowing properly through the filter and return jet.
Don't allow the pump to run dry.
Step 4: Remove Leaves, Branches and Other Debris
Now you can begin cleaning up the pool.
Start with the larger debris floating on the surface.
A telescopic leaf rake or deep-bag skimmer net is particularly useful after a storm because it can collect larger amounts of leaves and small twigs than a flat surface skimmer.
Remove loose debris before it sinks or breaks down in the water.
If branches have damaged the liner or fallen onto equipment, deal with the damage before attempting normal cleaning.
Avoid climbing into the pool to retrieve heavy or sharp objects, especially if the water is cloudy and you cannot see the bottom.
After removing larger debris, use a suitable pool vacuum to collect settled dirt and fine material from the floor.
For regular cleanup around smaller pools, you can compare options in our Handheld Pool Vacuums section.
If the storm has left the water muddy or heavily contaminated, don't assume vacuuming alone will make it safe.
Step 5: Check the Water Level After Heavy Rain
Heavy rainfall can raise the water level above its normal operating range.
A high water level isn't automatically a reason to panic.
Once the storm has passed, check the level against the manufacturer's recommended operating range.
If the water is too high, you may need to remove a controlled amount using the appropriate drain or waste function, a suitable utility pump, or another manufacturer-approved method.
Take care where the discharged water goes.
Don't pump water directly against the pool wall, underneath support legs or toward the house foundation.
Stop when the correct operating level is reached.
Avoid draining more than necessary, particularly if the ground is still saturated from heavy rain.
Step 6: Test and Balance the Pool Water
Rainwater itself isn't automatically a reason to shock the pool.
What matters is how the storm has affected the water.
Heavy rain can dilute sanitizer, introduce debris and change water chemistry. The effects will depend on how much rain entered the pool, the original chemistry and whether runoff brought in additional contaminants.
Once conditions are safe, test:
Free chlorine: Check that enough sanitizer remains in the water.
pH: Make sure it's within the appropriate range before swimming.
Total alkalinity: Check if pH has changed significantly or the water has become difficult to balance.
Cyanuric acid (CYA): Consider retesting after substantial dilution or water replacement, particularly if you use stabilized chlorine.
For residential pools, the CDC recommends a pH of 7.0 to 7.8 and at least 1 ppm free chlorine, increasing to at least 2 ppm when cyanuric acid or stabilized chlorine is used. Your pool's chemical products may specify a higher normal operating target.
If chlorine is low, correct it according to your test results.
If the pool is properly sanitized, clear and balanced, adding shock simply because it rained may be unnecessary.
For more detailed treatment advice, follow our Pool Shock 101 guide.
Step 7: Run the Filter and Clean It as Needed
Once the equipment has been checked and the water chemistry addressed, filtration can help remove fine debris left behind by the storm.
How much filtration you'll need depends on how dirty the pool has become and how well your pump and filter are working.
A pool with a few leaves may return to normal fairly quickly.
A pool full of fine dirt, pollen or dead algae can take considerably longer.
For cartridge filters, inspect the cartridge and clean or replace it when necessary.
For sand filters, monitor pressure and flow. Backwash when the filter condition and manufacturer instructions indicate it's needed.
Don't assume that adding more chlorine will clear cloudy water if the filtration system isn't working properly.
If the water remains dull or hazy, follow our How to Clear Cloudy Water in Above-Ground Pools guide for a more detailed cleanup process.
Step 8: Make Sure the Pool Is Safe Before Swimming Again
Just because the storm has passed doesn't mean the pool is immediately ready to use.
Before allowing anyone back in, make sure:
The pool wall, liner and frame are undamaged.
Ladders, steps and access barriers are secure.
Electrical equipment has been checked and is operating safely.
The pump and filter are working normally.
The water is clear enough to see the pool bottom.
Chlorine and pH are within the correct operating ranges.
There is no evidence of sewage, floodwater or other serious contamination.
If floodwater or sewage entered the pool, keep everyone out and seek appropriate professional or local health-department guidance. Normal filtration and a routine shock dose may not be enough to make contaminated water safe.
What if a Hurricane or Tropical Storm Is Approaching?
A normal thunderstorm and a major hurricane shouldn't be treated as the same problem.
For an ordinary storm, removing loose items, checking the water and protecting equipment may be sufficient.
A hurricane can bring sustained high winds, flying debris, prolonged power outages and flooding that affect the entire pool structure.
There are three particularly important differences.
Don't Attempt Last-Minute Structural Changes
An above-ground pool is designed to hold a large amount of water within a particular wall or frame system.
If that structure isn't suitable for the expected conditions, attaching makeshift braces, drilling extra holes or adding heavy anchors at the last minute isn't a reliable solution.
Follow the pool manufacturer's instructions and seek professional advice if you're concerned about its structural condition.
Prepare for Power Outages and Flooding
A hurricane may leave your pump and chlorinator without power for an extended period.
Test and prepare the water while circulation is still available and conditions remain safe, but don't prioritize pool chemistry over personal safety.
Afterward, inspect everything before reconnecting it.
If electrical equipment was flooded, have it professionally checked before restoration.
Don't Assume a Cover Will Survive Hurricane-Force Winds
A cover that works perfectly during ordinary summer rain may not withstand a hurricane.
Large, loose cover surfaces can catch wind and transfer considerable force to straps, cables or attachment points.
Follow the manufacturer's severe-weather guidance, and never attempt to adjust a cover once dangerous conditions have begun.
If your pool is already closed for winter, our winter-cover wind protection guide covers normal winter conditions in more detail.
Which Pool Supplies Are Worth Having Before Storm Season?
You don't need a separate collection of expensive storm-specific equipment.
A few ordinary maintenance items are much more useful, particularly when it comes to cleaning up afterward.
A good leaf rake or skimmer net: Useful for removing branches, leaves and floating debris before they sink.
Reliable pool-water testing equipment: Essential for checking chlorine and pH after heavy rain. Quick test strips are convenient, while a liquid test kit is useful when precise readings matter.
A pool brush and vacuum: Help remove dirt and debris that settle on the walls and floor.
Working filtration equipment and appropriate spare parts: Having a clean replacement cartridge or common consumables can save time if the filter becomes heavily loaded after a storm.
A suitable cover pump: Worth considering if your pool is already closed with a solid winter cover that collects rainwater. You can compare options in our Best Pool Cover Pumps guide.
You don't need to replace a working pool pump, buy a new cover or spend money on extra chemicals simply because severe weather is forecast.
Start with what you already own and make sure it's in good working condition.
Keep Your Pool Ready for the Next Storm
Storm preparation is much easier when you aren't rushing around the yard trying to secure everything as the wind picks up.
Keep loose accessories stored properly, maintain a safe water level, check the surrounding drainage and make sure your pump and filter are in good condition.
If severe weather is forecast, remove items that could blow into the pool and protect electrical equipment before conditions become dangerous.
Afterward, inspect the pool structure and equipment before worrying about leaves or water chemistry.
And remember, a messy pool is usually easier to fix than a damaged one.
For help with ongoing maintenance, water testing, pool chemicals and troubleshooting, visit our Chemicals & Water Care section.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I drain my above-ground pool before a hurricane?
No. Generally, you should not drain or substantially lower a filled above-ground pool simply because a hurricane is approaching. The water provides important support to the pool walls and liner. Keep the normal operating level unless your pool manufacturer provides different instructions for your specific situation.
Should I cover my above-ground pool during a storm?
It depends on the cover and the severity of the storm. Floating solar covers should usually be removed before strong winds. Lightweight covers may also need to be stored. A properly installed winter cover can remain suitable for ordinary seasonal weather, but follow its manufacturer's instructions for severe storms or hurricanes.
Should I turn off my pool pump during a thunderstorm?
If lightning, severe weather, flooding or a significant power outage is expected, plan to shut down pool equipment safely before dangerous conditions arrive. Never approach electrical controls while standing in water or during unsafe storm conditions. Equipment exposed to flooding should be professionally inspected before being switched on again.
What happens if my above-ground pool overflows during heavy rain?
Rain can raise the pool above its normal operating water level. Once conditions are safe, check the level and remove excess water if required by the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid draining water against the pool wall, support legs or surrounding foundations.
Do I need to shock my pool after heavy rain?
Not automatically. Test free chlorine and pH first. If chlorine is too low, the water is contaminated or algae is developing, additional chlorine or shock may be necessary. If the pool is already clear, properly sanitized and balanced, you may not need to shock it.
Can strong winds damage an above-ground pool?
Yes. Strong winds can blow debris into the pool, damage covers, move loose accessories and place additional stress on the structure. Heavy rain can also wash away supporting soil. After a severe storm, inspect the wall, frame, liner and ground before using the pool.
Can I use my pool pump after it has been flooded?
Do not turn on a pump or electrical equipment that has been submerged or potentially damaged by floodwater. Have the equipment inspected by a qualified professional before restoring power.
When is it safe to swim after a storm?
Only return to swimming when the weather is safe, the pool structure and electrical equipment are sound, filtration is working, the water is clear enough to see the bottom, and sanitizer and pH levels are within the proper range. Floodwater or sewage contamination requires additional precautions and professional guidance.
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