Yes, Publix's infamous hurricane-themed cakes (those frosted storm systems in buttercream form) are the subject of a viral Change.org petition that has already collected more than 34,696 signatures. The petition, dramatically titled "Bring Back Publix Hurricane Cakes!", is just 300 signatures shy of its 35,000 goal as of the morning of Friday, August 22. Because nothing unites Floridians quite like gallons of water, hours in line for gas, batteries, sandbags, and cakes decorated like devastating natural disaster-causing storm systems.
The Change.org petition to bring back the Publix hurricane cakes has nearly 35,000 signatures as of Friday, August 12, at noon.
Screenshot via Change.org
“Once upon a time, Publix gave us something magical: Hurricane Cakes. Not just delicious — these cakes were edible morale boosters. A wink, a laugh, and a little comfort as we stocked up on bottled water and batteries.The post goes on to rally Floridians, Georgians, Carolinians, and even Kentuckians (bless their storm-battered souls) to unite for one common cause: cake.
For reasons unknown, Publix stopped making them. And frankly, we don’t care why — we just know they made hurricane prep a little brighter. They were a sweet reminder that even when the wind howls and the rain pours, folks across the Southeast keep their sense of humor.”
The discontinued hurricane cakes sold at Publix ahead of hurricanes in years past.
Photos via Change.org/Reddit
How The Infamous 'Hurricakes' Came About
For years, Publix's "hurricakes" were a cheeky staple of South Florida's annual hurricane season. They featured edible storm radars in swirling blue, green, and red icing, sometimes with messages like "Go Away" or "Leave Florida Alone." They were funny, tasty, and gave hurricane parties an official dessert sponsor.But in 2023, after Hurricanes Ian and Nicole, Publix discontinued the cakes, citing concerns that they might make light of tragedy. It was the end of an era, and the beginning of a very long hurricane season with no comic relief in the bakery aisle.
Still, as this petition shows, many Floridians would rather face 100 mph winds than another storm season without cake. Reddit threads have begged for their return, social media has mourned them, and now, Change.org is turning nostalgia into activism.
Whether Publix listens remains to be seen. But with signatures climbing by the minute, one thing is clear: in Florida, prepping for a storm isn't just about sandbags and gas cans — it's about clinging to traditions that make chaos just a little sweeter.
So, Publix, the people have spoken. We've got our flashlights, plywood, and candles. Now, hand over the hurricane cakes.
