Hurricanes in Florida

Titans of Nature

The geography of Florida makes it a frequent target:

• More than 2,100 kilometers of coastline exposed to the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico.
• Many areas with low elevation, which increases the risk of flooding.
• Warm ocean waters that fuel the development of storms.
• Its location as a "crossroads" for storms coming from the Caribbean, the Gulf, or the East Coast.

Some of the most devastating hurricanes in U.S. history have impacted Florida, including:

• Hurricane Andrew (1992) – Category 5, caused $27 billion in damages.
• Hurricane Irma (2017) – Affected more than 6.5 million people.
• Hurricane Ian (2022) – One of the most expensive hurricanes in history, with damages exceeding $112 billion.

Common dangers during a hurricane

• Storm surge: Rise in sea level that can flood coastal areas (the deadliest threat).
• Strong winds: They can destroy houses, knock down power lines, and turn debris into projectiles.
• Heavy rains and flooding: Even inland areas can experience sudden flooding.
• Tornadoes: Hurricanes often generate tornadoes when they make landfall.

How to prepare for a hurricane

Being prepared can save lives. Here’s what you need to do:

✅ Create an emergency kit:

• Water (1 gallon per person per day, for at least 3 days)
• Non-perishable foods
• Flashlights, batteries, and a hand-crank radio
• First aid kit
• Medications
• Important documents (in waterproof containers)
  
  

✅ Make a family plan:

• Know your evacuation zone.
• Identify shelters or safe places.
• Establish a communication plan with your family.

✅ Protect your home:

• Install storm shutters or cover the windows with boards.
• Trim trees and secure loose objects outside.
• Check your insurance (home, flood, wind).
• During the storm, stay indoors and away from the windows.
• Do not walk or drive through floodwaters — just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down; 12 inches can sweep away a car.
• Follow updates through local news or the NOAA Weather Radio.

After the hurricane

• Wait for official confirmation that it is safe to go out.
• Avoid fallen cables and report them immediately.
• Document the damages for your insurance.
• Be careful with contaminated water and spoiled food.

Hurricanes are a part of life in Florida. While we cannot stop them, preparation, awareness, and quick action can drastically reduce risks and save lives. Stay informed, prepare, and take care of yourself.

🔔 Regístrate para recibir alertas de emergencia en FloridaDisaster.org