Florida Hurricane Season - Must Know Tips Before You Go on Your Vacation
We have never experienced a hurricane first hand, however Hurricane Katrina almost hindered our trip when it hit. See, we were heading to Sarasota Florida for the week when she was barreling through The Keys. The experts thought it was going to turn back, but it headed out to the Gulf and halted. Well, come Sun/Mon we turn on the TV and notice this monster turned into a whopping category 5. We watched from our Florida beachfront condo, the devastation and unfortunate events thattook place (as most of America watched this disaster unfold). I wouldn't have been so disappointed if our trip was ruined after seeing what Katrina did to the Gulf Coast due to the shear destruction caused, but many times Florida storms can hinder the vacation plans we've looked forward to for so long. So, we thought it would be best to at least advise you about Florida hurricane history, the season, and some travel tips so you're armed and prepared.
Florida Hurricane History & Tips...Since the 1960's, there have been about a dozen major Florida hurricanes to hit the great state.Some of the more recent ones include, Charley, Frances, Jeanne, and Ivan - all hit within 2 months time in 2004. The damage by one was a major blow, but the devastation compounded by four really nailed Florida. Update: In recent years the hurricanes have been tame which has been a good thing, but it is always a great idea to be prepared. As usual, they bounced back and Floridians along with Florida beach lovers built up stronger and kept the beautiful state alive. Just when you thought it was over, the 2005 season came with Hurricane Dennis, a strong category 3/4 hitting the Florida Panhandle. Then as we saw, the destruction of both Katrina and Wilma leaving the Gulf Coast in shreds. And how can we mention hurricanes without Florida Hurricane Andrew. A category 5 when it hit Florida, Andrew is known as "The Legend." This is just a bit of history touching on the hurricanes that many of us would like to forget, but if you would like to learn more about each one, visit Wikipedia.org for all kinds of info regarding any Florida hurricane that has hit the state since 1960. Planning a Trip to Florida & Hurricane Season...So, you are heading to Florida for your discount Florida vacations? It is late spring, summer, or fall and you know that Florida's hurricane season has been ferocious the last decade - and running longer.The worries of a hurricane bring fuel concerns, travel concerns, and resident concerns. As a traveler you have the option to stay home, but if you get caught in the midst of a nasty hurricane while on your trip, then you should be prepared. According to some rough odds, the best chances of a Florida hurricane are in the spots you would expect, Southeast Atlantic Coast, The Keys, and all along the Gulf Coast/Panhandle due to the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. If you happen to get caught in a Florida hurricane while on vacation, the best tip is to get out as fast as possible (and listen to local authorities) and if that isn't an option pack your stuff and drive to a shelter as far away from the "possible path" as you can. Therefore, you should know the evacuation routes, have a kit of supplies and first aid, know your vehicles abilities & have plenty of fuel, have extra cash on hand, and be ready to leave at the drop of a hat. Don't try to ride it out and risk serious harm to you and your family if you don't have to. I even read an article that some booking agencies are offering a type of Florida hurricane insurance for your trip. I am not sure which ones are offering this or what the fine print is, but it doesn't hurt to ask when you book. Final Thoughts on Florida Hurricanes...Again, this article isn't to scare you or be an expert guide on the hurricane season (June through October).However, it is a reminder that hurricanes do hit, and are very dangerous - don't mess with Mother Nature! As a Florida traveler, be informed if you are heading there during the summer and fall months. Take a few minutes, do your homework and have a plan if the weather man tells you a hurricane is roaring towards your beach of choice. I know it will be frustrating and disappointing, but you can always come back to enjoy Florida again. Just remember those who don't have the luxury to pick up and leave. Make sure to visit our Florida weather section before you leave! This Just In - Report Your News Stories & Florida Updates Here!Do you have a newsworthy report or story to share? Do you see information that needs to be added or updated on our site? Please Share it for other travellers! We hope this article shed some light when it comes to hurricane season and travel. It's easy to search here for storm & weather info...
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