| |
Florida Hurricane Season - Must Know Tips Before You Go on Your Vacation
IWhen the endt of spring approaches (May time frame), Florida hurricane season is upon us. We debated
mentioning such a dismal topic, but with how bad things have been over the last
few years, we felt it our duty to at least provide some insight.
We have never experienced a hurricane first hand, however Katrina almost
hindered our trip when it hit. See, we were heading to Sarasota 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 hulted.
Well, come Sun/Mon we turn on the TV and notice this monster turned into a whopping
category 5.
We watched from our beachfront condo, the devastation and unfortunate events that
took place. I wouldn't have been so disappointed if our trip was ruined after seeing
what Katrina did to the Gulf Coast.
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 weather can be found here
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.
As usual, they bounced back and Florididans 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 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.
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
couple of years- 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 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.
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!
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...
Return to read more Trip Advisor articles here
Done reading about Florida hurricane season? Head home to plan your trip!!
|
