We are at the end of our severe weather series and for our big finale, we will be talking about our most infamous weather phenomena, Hurricanes & tropical storms!
The scariest weather phenomenon in Florida During the summer and early fall are tropical storms, hurricanes, and tropical cyclones. Since we’re geographically situated around the tropics and surrounded on three sides by warm water, Florida’s unique location makes it particularly vulnerable for these systems as they extend across the Atlantic, Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. Our terrain is relatively flat which can also make it vulnerable to flooding.
Florida has a long history of hurricanes. Records indicate that About 145 hurricanes and about 164 tropical storms have affected the state since 1851. It is safe to assume that there were a ton of storms before these records even existed! Unfortunately, there is no magic switch to turn off hurricanes for a year or more. That would be nice!
Did you know?
No other state in the country has more hurricanes than average each year than Florida. Nearly 40% of hurricanes that make landfall in the United States make landfall in Florida.
Hurricane season in the North Atlantic officially begins June 1 and lasts until November 30. Since we are almost getting to that half of the year, be proactive and follow the local weather advisories. Tropical systems can still form outside of hurricane season as early as May and as late as December. Although the number of tropical cyclones and typhoons usually peaks in August, and September, it is important to remember that Florida can be affected by tropical weather systems at any time of the season.
Residents and visitors should plan ahead and be prepared for storm effects. As a tropical system approaches, The National Hurricane Center will issue information, alarms or helpful watches and warnings. Storm watches are usually issued 48 hours in advance when there may be dangerous winds or strong winds in the specified area. Warnings are given 36 hours before the time of damage Wind or storm surge is expected.
When a watch or warning has been issued, your family should act fast and decide where is safest in the storm. Strong winds can easily destroy poorly constructed structures and mobile homes. A hurricane plan doesn’t have to be something extremely complex, but must include at least the following two things.
First, let’s define if you live in an evacuation area. FloridaDisaster.org will give you all the information you need to know about what your designation zone is, its letter, and more useful evacuation information. This is most commonly determined if your area has surge flooding. If you live in an evacuation zone, know when and where you will weather the storm.
Second, have a disaster ready supply kit with non-perishable food, batteries for electronic devices like your NOAA weather forecast Radio and enough supplies for 7 days. Assess your property to ensure that the landscape and trees do not become a hazard to the wind.
While hurricanes are known and feared for their fierce winds, historically, it has been the culprit responsible for the most deaths, injury and destruction surrounding Florida weather. About 90% of all hurricane deaths occur in high tides or freshwater floods. The widespread flooding caused by Tropical Cyclone Fay in 2008 and Hurricane Ida in 2021 is a reminder that these storms can cause more damage than expected!
Stay tuned for more Hurricane information as we are working on our Harris Insurance 2022 Hurricane Handbook! With that being said, every year we learn more about how these storms operate, which allows for free guides to be produced, and distributed, like ours!
Starting in 2020, we developed our Hurricane Handbook to make preparation easier for longtime Floridians as well as newcomers! Our guide provides everything you need to know before, during, and after any storm, minor or major. If our old friend Mr. Hurricane decides to blow in our direction, you’ll be ready! Hurricanes are serious business and being ahead of the curve when it comes to preparation allows you to calmly be as prepared as possible for the many storms that could head our way. The information inside is easy to read and will come in handy in the event a storm veers in our direction.
We would like to thank you for following our Severe Weather Series! We aim to provide as much information as we can to ensure you have a nice time in our state. Whether you live here full time or are looking to visit, our blog will keep you informed about the latest happenings with our company, major insurance news, weather, homeowners tips & advice and so much more related to Florida Lifestyle!
As always, reach out to your Harris Insurance Agent for information of all kinds! We shop insurance for you and provide quotes that can save you money and keep you safe.
LEGAL DISCLAIMER
Views expressed here do not constitute legal advice. The information contained herein is for general guidance of matter only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice. Discussion of insurance policy language is descriptive only. Every policy has different policy language. Coverage afforded under any insurance policy issued is subject to individual policy terms and conditions. Please refer to your policy for the actual language.
