There are many things that Florida is known for: its hot summers, beautiful wildlife, vast wetlands, sunny beaches, and most of all, its erratic and rainy weather. The wet season in Florida runs roughly from mid-May to mid-October according to the National Weather Service. For those who have grown to know Florida’s personality like the back of their hand, the random rain and intense heat don’t seem to phase them at all. But those folks also know the importance of properly preparing for a natural disaster. One kind being the most common disaster of the Florida rainy season that the locals know all too well: hurricanes.
https://www.weather.gov/media/mfl/news/RainySeasonOutlook2024.pdf
As we slowly approach the end of the wet season here in Florida, it is important to keep all of your family’s hurricane supplies well-stocked and up to date. Just because we are nearing the end does not mean we are invincible! In fact, almost all the major hurricanes to make landfall in or near Florida in the past two decades have occurred during the months of August-October. Hurricanes Wilma, Ian, and Michael were all very intense hurricanes and proved the importance of hurricane preparedness. Hurricane Andrew, occurring in August 1992, was one of the most dangerous ones in United States history and remains the seventh-costliest hurricane to hit the U.S.
One of the foremost things to do to prepare for hurricane season is to stay in the know. Knowing what storms have been spotted in the Atlantic Ocean and which ones are at risk of making landfall is going to give families plenty of time to prepare. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) provides great updates as the hurricane season continues. Here is the latest update on how our current hurricane season is turning out:
https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/highly-active-hurricane-season-likely-to-continue-in-atlantic
Many people will prepare for a hurricane by having a constant supply of materials in case a storm was to hit at any point. It is important to make sure these items are necessary and non-perishable. Although a hurricane kit can look very different to different people, especially to those living in different parts of Florida or different states, there are a few essential items that should be included in every preparation kit. Some of those items being batteries, non-perishable foods, water, flashlights, battery-operated radios, and much more. It’s also critical to note that animal and pet safety is just as important! Many people would agree that their pets are part of their family, so it is necessary that, during a hurricane, their safety is prioritized too. Make sure to add non-perishable pet food, extra water, and maybe some of your critter’s favorite toys to your hurricane kit. Here is a great link including all kinds of lists, tips, and tricks to create your own hurricane kit.
https://www.stateofflorida.com/articles/hurricane-preparedness-guide
Although nothing major has hit us south Floridians this season yet, there is always time to prepare for a hurricane at any moment to keep you and your family safe! Here at the Sawgrass Nature Center, we hope you stay up-to-date, prepped and safe this hurricane season!