Petition to Bring Back Publix “Hurricane Cakes” Surges in Florida: What They Are, Why They Stopped, and Where to Get Your Storm-Season Sweets
A fast-growing Change.org petition is asking Publix to bring back its famously cheeky hurricane cakes; storm-track-inspired buttercream creations that once flew off Florida bakery shelves ahead of landfalls. Publix discontinued them in 2023, citing a policy against products that “make light of a natural disaster.” Fans say they were morale boosters and want them back this season. We break down the history, the petition, where to buy alternatives, and how this ties into Florida cake culture, competitions, and hurricane-themed merch.
The News: Nearly 40K Signatures and Climbing
A Change.org petition started by Florida resident Tim Lawler has racked up ~39–40K verified signatures calling on Publix to resume selling hurricane cakes across its Southeast footprint. The organizer frames the cakes as “edible morale boosters” during storm prep.
Local and national outlets have amplified the campaign, noting the petition’s rapid growth throughout late August.
Yahoo News summarized the push and recapped how the tradition took off, helping the story spread beyond Florida.
What Is a Publix Hurricane Cake?
Think sheet cakes, tall buttercream cakes, and cookie cakes decorated like a radar spiral; often with tongue-in-cheek phrases (“Go Away,” “Leave Florida Alone”). They became a viral Florida ritual during Hurricane Dorian (2019) and resurfaced every season; until the discontinuation.
Why Did Publix Stop Making Them?
In August 2023, Publix confirmed it would no longer create cakes that resemble or make light of natural disasters. A company spokesperson told ABC News, “it is our company policy to not produce bakery cakes that would make light of a natural disaster.” That policy has been communicated to stores.
Where to Buy a “Hurricane Cake” in Florida Right Now
Short answer: Not at Publix, the policy remains in force.
If you still want a storm-themed centerpiece for your hurricane-party spread, here are legit alternatives:
Independent bakeries & cake studios: Many Florida cake shops accept custom designs; including radar spirals, cone-of-uncertainty motifs, and punny storm names. (Ask for a custom “weather cake” if you want to avoid the specific term.)
DIY cake-making: Home bakers can replicate the look with a round or tall cake and gel colors for the storm bands; a simple ring of fondant or piped royal icing can mimic the forecast “cone.”
Cookie-cake version: The viral look started with cookie cakes, easier to decorate for beginners and great for office hurricane-supply runs.
Note: Some Publix fans report even custom hurricane themes are declined due to the policy; don’t be surprised if a decorator politely says no.
Cake Culture, Competitions, and Community Fun
Florida has a vibrant cake competition scene, from county fairs to pro-am challenges, where decorators routinely riff on local themes. If you’re craving the tradition without the policy friction, consider hosting a neighborhood “Hurricane Cake-Off” (best radar bands, most realistic eye, funniest slogan). It channels the same morale-boosting spirit the petition celebrates; minus the retail policy barriers.
Hurricane Merch: Stickers, Tees, and Florida-First Flair
Whether the cakes return or not, the hurricane-season merch absolutely will. Floridians lean into storm humor with stickers, shirts, magnets, and posters (think: spaghetti models, “cone of uncertainty,” and cheeky storm names). That zeitgeist is part of why the petition resonates: hurricane-themed Florida merchandise is a thing—and people want the cake version back, too.
How to Support or Track the Campaign
- Sign/Share the petition (“Bring Back Publix Hurricane Cakes!”). The signature count updates in real time.
- Follow local coverage for updates and community response across Florida.
- Watch for an official Publix response. As of now, the 2023 policy is the latest on record.
Hurricane FAQ
Does Publix still make hurricane cakes?
No. Publix discontinued hurricane-themed cakes in 2023 and has a policy against bakery items that make light of natural disasters.
Why were the hurricane cakes discontinued?
Publix cited sensitivity concerns and a company policy not to produce cakes that could be seen as downplaying natural disasters.
How many people have signed the petition?
As of publication, ~39–40K verified signatures and rising. (Counts change frequently; check the petition page for the latest.)
Where can I buy a hurricane cake in Florida now?
You won’t find them at Publix under current policy. Look to independent Florida bakeries for custom designs or try a DIY hurricane cake at home. Some shoppers report custom hurricane designs are declined at Publix even on request.
What is a “hurricane cake,” exactly?
A cake (or cookie cake) decorated like a storm radar; often with a colorful spiral, a “cone” outline, and storm-season quips. The look went viral during Hurricane Dorian (2019).
Is there a cake-making competition for hurricane cakes?
Official Publix competitions aren’t part of this petition. But many communities host local cake competitions or charity bake-offs; perfect venues for a hurricane-themed “cake-off.”