Meteorology Matters

January Cold Snap: Accuracy, Limits, and the Looming Winter WeatherMeteorology Matters analyzes recent weather reporting regarding forecast accuracy, the intrinsic limits of predictability, and the potential for a severe cold snap in early to mid January 2025.

Briefing Document: Holiday Traditions with a Military TwistThis document reviews two unique holiday traditions involving the US military: NORAD Tracks Santa and Operation Christmas Drop.NORAD Tracks SantaOrigin: The tradition began in 1955 when a Sears advertisement mistakenly printed the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD) hotline number as Santa's phone number. Colonel Harry Shoup, the commander on duty, received calls from children and, rather than dismissing them, decided to provide updates on Santa's location.Operation Christmas DropOrigin: Operation Christmas Drop started in 1952 when a WB-29 aircrew, seeing islanders waving from Kapingamarangi, decided to drop a bundle of supplies attached to a parachute.

The Long Road to Recovery: How Hurricanes Helene and Milton Continue to Impact Tampa Bay ResidentsMeteorology Matters examines the ongoing challenges faced by residents in the Tampa Bay area in the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Even in December 2024 area residents are dealing with hurdles months after the hurricanes, we are focusing on the struggles residents are encountering with FEMA, housing instability, and supply shortages.Key Themes:FEMA's 50% Rule and Damage Assessment InconsistenciesHousing Instability for RentersSupply Shortages and Extended DelaysFinancial and Emotional Strain

Christmas 2024 Travel Briefing: Weather Impacts and White Christmas PredictionsThis briefing summarizes key weather information for the Christmas 2024 holiday period, drawing from several weather forecasts and news articles.Main Themes:Unsettled weather leading up to Christmas: Many regions will experience rain, snow, and potentially disruptive weather in the days preceding Christmas.Warmer temperatures for many on Christmas Day: A warming trend is expected across much of the US, bringing above-average temperatures and reducing the likelihood of snow in many areas.Limited White Christmas potential: While higher elevations in the West and areas near the Canadian border have the best chances, widespread snow cover on Christmas morning is unlikely across the contiguous US.Travel disruptions possible: Travelers should anticipate potential delays due to weather, especially in the days leading up to Christmas.

Meteorology Matters examines Miami and Tampa's vulnerability to hurricanes and climate change. Miami, despite its booming population and development, faces significant climate risks, including rising sea levels and increased flooding, yet many residents remain, prioritizing lifestyle over potential dangers. Tampa, similarly situated in a low-lying area, presents a high-risk scenario due to its rapid growth and the potential for catastrophic storm surge, with the upcoming Hurricane Milton posing an imminent threat. Both cities highlight the complex interplay between economic growth, environmental risks, and individual choices in the face of climate change. Experts express serious concern about the preparedness of both cities for extreme weather events.

Meteorology Matters examines the environmental impact of suburban sprawl, contrasting it with denser, more walkable urban neighborhoods. We explore the trade-offs between walkability, affordability, and living space, highlighting public preference for sprawling suburbs despite their higher carbon footprint. We look at the effects of suburban development on natural habitats, noting both habitat loss and surprising animal adaptations. Finally we examine strategies to reduce the climate footprint of suburban areas, suggesting policy changes, technological upgrades in homes and transportation, and individual actions to mitigate emissions.

Meteorology Matters looks at a Washington Post investigation into the deaths of six Impact Plastics employees during Hurricane Helene's flooding in Erwin, Tennessee. The investigation highlights the role of both the severe weather and allegedly inadequate employer responses in the fatalities, contrasting this with the successful rescue of hospital staff and patients. We also examine the deaths of workers at an Amazon warehouse and a Kentucky candle factory during a tornado. The lack of union representation contributed to the workers' inability to leave their workplaces before the disaster and emphasizes the importance of unions in ensuring worker safety and fair treatment. This boils down to the tragic consequences of prioritizing profit over worker safety in the face of extreme weather events.

Meteorology Matters reports on a major Thanksgiving Weekend lake-effect snowstorm impacting upstate New York and parts of the Great Lakes region. Significant snowfall accumulations of up to five or six feet are predicted, especially near Watertown, NY, and along the shores of Lakes Erie and Ontario. Hazardous travel conditions and widespread disruptions are anticipated, prompting warnings and travel restrictions. State and local authorities are mobilizing resources, including the National Guard and transportation crews, to respond to the storm's impact. The storm is expected to last through early Monday.

Meteorology Matters presents an analytical framework for standardizing tropical cyclone wind characteristics (mean wind speed, turbulence intensity, integral scale, gust factor, and peak factor) from various measurement conditions to a common reference. This framework uses equilibrium boundary-layer theory and is applied to data from seven tropical cyclones (four typhoons, three hurricanes), comparing results to existing standards (ASCE 7-10 and AIJ-RLB-2004). We continue to. examine gust factor variations based on coastal tower measurements during three landfalling typhoons. We explore the relationships between gust factor and turbulence intensity, height, wind speed, and direction, finding that gust factors are smaller than those in national codes and influenced significantly by shoreline confinement on sea wave development.

Meteorology Matters discusses Thanksgiving week weather forecasts across the U.S., predicting potential travel disruptions. CBS News reports on severe storms impacting the Pacific Northwest and California, with ensuing power outages and fatalities, while also forecasting rain and snow in the East impacting Thanksgiving travel. Weather.com provides a more detailed, day-by-day forecast, highlighting potential travel issues due to snow in mountainous regions and lake-effect snow in the Great Lakes area, along with rain and thunderstorms in other parts of the country. The overall message is one of caution and preparedness for holiday travel.

Meteorology Matters provides details onthe Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) aid available to Florida residents affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. We explain how to apply for FEMA assistance and appeal denials, highlighting challenges faced by applicants. We also focus on DUA application procedures, deadlines, and eligibility requirements for individuals whose employment was impacted by the hurricanes. We go over supplemental information on DUA, including eligibility criteria, application methods, and appeal processes, emphasizing the importance of meeting deadlines and providing necessary documentation. We aim to inform and guide individuals seeking aid after the hurricanes before time runs out!

People express concern over the potential impact of a second Trump presidency on US science policy. They highlight anxieties regarding potential budget cuts to scientific research, increased focus on research security potentially hindering international collaboration, and a diminished respect for scientific consensus in policy decisions, particularly concerning climate change and public health. The appointment of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to a key position is cited as a cause for alarm due to his controversial views on public health. Finally, there are discussions of proactive strategies for the scientific community to engage with the new administration and advocate for continued funding and the preservation of independent scientific agencies.

Meteorology Matters looks at how Climate change significantly intensified the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season. Multiple reports, including one from Climate Central and a peer-reviewed study in Environmental Research: Climate, confirm that human-caused ocean warming increased the wind speeds of all eleven hurricanes. This resulted in seven hurricanes being upgraded to higher Saffir-Simpson categories and two tropical storms becoming hurricanes. The increased intensity led to substantial damage and economic losses, with climate change attributed to a significant portion of the damage caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. A separate analysis by a hurricane expert highlights the unusually active 2024 season, noting record-breaking ocean temperatures and the occurrence of three simultaneous hurricanes in October.

A potential tropical storm, dubbed Invest 99L, is forming in the Caribbean and has a high chance of developing into Tropical Storm Sara within the next few days.Multiple weather models are forecasting Sara to potentially become a hurricane and threaten Florida's Gulf Coast next week, although the track and intensity of the storm remain uncertain. MeteorologyMatters discusses the rarity of November hurricanes, with only three recorded landfalls in the US since 1850, but warn that warm water temperatures in the Atlantic basin are fueling an unusually active hurricane season.

Meteorology Matters addresses Tucker Carlson’s bizarre assertion that abortions cause hurricanes, dismissing scientific explanations for their increased frequency and intensity, and instead linking them to a supposed “human sacrifice.” We examine these claims through a scientific lens, presenting evidence that contradicts their religious justifications and highlights their potential harm in influencing public opinion on scientific and social issues. We look back at televangelist Pat Robertson’s claims over the years that he can control the weather and that God is punishing the U.S. for its increasing acceptance of homosexuality, specifically targeting Disney World and abortion supporters.

Meteorology Matters looks at the potential impact of Donald Trump’s return to the presidency on science and environmental policy. Currently, the Biden administration is trying to solidify its environmental policies, such as those regarding greenhouse gas emissions and vehicle electrification, before Trump takes office. We examine the uncertainty surrounding Trump’s potential return to power and how it might influence scientific research, particularly concerning climate change, vaccine skepticism, and the role of government funding in science. There’s the potential for conflict between Trump’s agenda and the goals of the scientific community.

Meteorology Matters compares and contrasts the climate change policies of Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. We explore their records on climate change, examining their stances on issues such as the Paris Agreement, renewable energy investment, electric vehicles, and fossil fuel projects. We look at the broader implications of their positions for the future of U.S. climate policy, highlighting their contrasting views on the urgency of climate action and their approaches to clean energy transitions. The candidates' foreign policy platforms, including their views on the war in the Middle East, the NATO alliance, climate change, trade with China, aid for Ukraine, and immigration. Delving into the potential impact of a Harris or Trump administration on climate and energy policy, we analyze the challenges and constraints they will face in implementing their agendas.

Meteorology Matters discusses the possibility of tropical development in the Atlantic basin during the final month of hurricane season. We look at three specific areas of interest: the southwestern Caribbean Sea, the northeastern Caribbean Sea and Greater Antilles, and the North Atlantic. We also emphasize the importance of monitoring these systems as their development and movement could potentially bring heavy rainfall and flooding to various regions.

Meteorology Matters explores the devastating consequences of flooding across the globe, highlighting the increasingly frequent and intense events driven by climate change. We examine how different countries are responding to this challenge, focusing on strategies such as building barriers, adapting to flooding, and relocating communities. We look at the World Weather Attribution report that analyzes the recent flooding in Sudan, concluding that human-induced climate change has significantly increased the likelihood of such extreme rainfall events. There’s been a record-breaking number of flash flood emergencies in the US, emphasizing the role of climate change in intensifying heavy rainfall events. The damage inflicted by Tropical Storm Helene on the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, showcases the destructive power of flooding on natural landscapes and infrastructure. Recently severe flooding in Italy and Spain, show the significant human and economic toll these events have taken. We address the unfolding tragedy in Valencia, Spain, highlighting the devastating impact on the country and the ongoing efforts to provide aid and rescue stranded individuals.

Meteorology Matters discusses the flooding of the Withlacoochee River in Central Florida, which has been at its highest levels since 1960 due to excess rainfall during the rainy season and Hurricane Milton. We explain the river's course, how the flooding has impacted local communities, and the efforts by authorities to help residents. We also address concerns from the public about the causes of the flooding and whether water management structures could be used to alleviate it.

Meteorology Matters explorers the rising trend of billion-dollar weather disasters in the United States. NOAA provides a comprehensive overview of the events in 2023, highlighting the record number of disasters and the significant financial and human costs. The Washington Post examines the debate surrounding the role of climate change in this trend. While acknowledging the potential influence of global warming, the article emphasizes the significant impact of population growth and development in hazard-prone areas. a complex set of natural factors and human activity is exacerbating the risks associated with extreme weather events

Urology matters uncovers the history of hurricanes in Florida, particularly focusing on the significant impact of the 1848 Tampa Bay hurricane. There have been many years with multiple major hurricane landfalls in Florida, highlighting the state's vulnerability to these natural disasters. We also look the 2024 and recent hurricane seasons, analyzing the frequency and intensity of storms in relation to climate change, while also acknowledging that hurricanes are a natural part of Florida's coastal environment. The 1848 Tampa Bay hurricane had devastating effects on the region and its lasting impact on the local geography but the population in the area was very small at the time. Additionally, discuss how Florida has always been a hurricane hot spot, but only in the last half century has the population blossomed along the coast to really affect massive numbers of people and damage the more developed infrastructure.

Meteorology Matters looks into how HAARP and Cloud Seeding did not create or drive Hurricanes Helene and Milton by providing a review of 43 studies published between 2012 and 2021 that examine conspiracy theories related to weather modification and climate change. The review provides insights into the prevalence, characteristics, and potential consequences of weather and climate change conspiracy theories, as well as exploring the science that debunks those theories. We identify knowledge gaps in existing research, emphasizing the need for greater geographic representation, improved conceptualization of the topic, and a more integrative approach that considers multiple factors and processes involved in the interplay between conspiracy theories and weather/climate change.

Meteorology Matters explores the growing problem of insurance companies failing to adequately cover homeowners after hurricanes in Florida, specifically focusing on issues since a Governor DeSantis supported law change. We highlight the challenges facing homeowners, insurance companies, and policymakers in the wake of increasingly severe weather events. We examine the implications of Florida’s insurance law changes, which are intended to reduce litigation but are further disadvantaging homeowners. Additionally, we talk about the importance of flood insurance and how the lack of adequate coverage is leaving many homeowners financially vulnerable.

Meteorology Matters examines the increasing vulnerability of low-income communities and communities of color to weather impacts, specifically hurricanes. They highlight how these groups are disproportionately affected by storm surges, flooding, and power outages due to their location in high-risk areas and lack of resources for preparedness and recovery. We discuss the need for better federal disaster relief and recovery policies that prioritize these vulnerable communities, including increased funding, streamlined application processes, and more comprehensive climate resilience measures. We also showcase examples of innovative solutions, like the Hunters Point community in Florida, which is designed to withstand hurricanes with features like solar panels, battery systems, and elevated construction but affordability keeps homes like these out of reach for almost everybody.

Meteorology Matters breaks down the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) "50% rule," a regulation that impacts homeowners in flood-prone areas. This rule states that if a home (structure itself excluding the land) sustains damage exceeding 50% of its market value, it must be brought into compliance with current floodplain management standards, usually by elevating the structure. The rule is designed to discourage rebuilding vulnerable properties in flood zones and prevent the government from bearing the cost of repeated damage. The sources explain the details of the rule, how it is applied, and the debate surrounding its implementation, particularly in Florida, where communities face an ongoing threat of hurricanes and rising sea levels. Homeowners and local officials often find themselves in a difficult position, balancing the need for rebuilding with the financial burden of complying with the rule, which can make it challenging to afford housing in flood-prone areas.

Meteorology Matters examines the impact of hurricanes and extreme weather on residential buildings. Many Europeans believe their older buildings are stronger than American’s when in reality they’re not engineered to handle extremes, while survivorship bias may play a role in their perception. While many think the “Three Little Pigs” are the end all and be all of tough building examples, engineering plays a vital role in how those materials actually perform. Wood can actually perform better than concrete if it’s engineered better than brick for example. We analyze different building materials and construction techniques, exploring their resistance to high winds, storm surge, and flooding. Then dive into the importance of strong connections between building components, such as roofs and walls, and explore vulnerabilities in different types of construction, such as wood-framed homes. Highlighting the importance of understanding regional wind vulnerabilities and using building codes and design practices that meet local needs, research emphasizes the need to address the growing problem of residential building failures due to extreme weather events, particularly in areas prone to hurricanes and tornadoes.

We debunk the claim that Hurricanes Helene and Milton were artificially engineered or manipulated by the government, HAARP, or other individuals or groups. Experts in meteorology, geoengineering, and atmospheric research confirm that the technology needed to control or create hurricanes does not exist. They attribute the intensity of these storms to natural processes, emphasizing the role of climate change in intensifying hurricanes. We further expose the spread of misinformation online, particularly among right-wing influencers and accounts, highlighting the potential dangers of these unfounded theories. They underscore the importance of critical thinking and reliance on credible scientific sources in the face of such misinformation. While climate change may be influencing hurricanes in some ways, most notably by rapid intensification, these conspiracy theories lack real evidence and have no basis in science.

Joseph Malinowski, is the Florida man who went viral for his decision to ride out Hurricanes Helene and Milton on his small sailboat. He was dubbed "Lieutenant Dan" after the character in Forrest Gump because he was missing a leg among other similarities with the movie character and garnered considerable attention online. While he initially received support and even donations, Malinowski was eventually arrested for trespassing and failing to appear in court. We detail his legal troubles, as well as the concerns of his daughter who fears the attention will negatively impact her father.

Florida is facing a number of issues related to the insurance market and hurricanes. Insurance premiums are at an all-time high, with many homeowners facing an increase of up to 400%. The recent hurricanes, Helene and Milton, have caused billions of dollars in damage, further straining the insurance market. Some insurers are raising rates, while others are pulling out of the state entirely, leading to a shortage of insurance options. This is leading some homeowners to sell their properties at a loss, while others are hesitant to buy homes in Florida due to the risk of hurricanes. Despite the challenges, some residents are choosing to stay in Florida, citing the benefits of the state's weather, attractions, and overall lifestyle as outweighing the risks of hurricanes. There is also a growing interest in building hurricane-resistant homes, particularly domed structures, which have been proven to withstand even category 5 hurricanes. However, the high cost of building these homes presents a significant barrier for many.

The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) has published a report titled “Rating the States” that evaluates the building code enforcement and administration systems, as well as contractor licensing practices in the 18 Atlantic and Gulf coast states most vulnerable to hurricanes. Each state is assigned a score from 0 to 100 based on the state’s adoption, implementation, and enforcement of building codes designed to minimize windstorm damage. The report highlights states with the most effective building code systems, identifies areas for improvement, and emphasizes the importance of adopting modern building codes to reduce the devastating impacts of hurricanes. The IBHS report provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of state-level building codes and serves as a resource for policymakers to make informed decisions regarding building code regulations.

We explore the phenomenon of king tides and their increasing impact on coastal cities, particularly Miami. King tides are naturally occurring high tides that occur during specific lunar phases, amplified by the sun's gravitational pull. We discuss how these tides, exacerbated by rising sea levels due to climate change, are causing frequent sunny-day flooding in Miami and other coastal areas. We highlight the growing threat of these floods to infrastructure, businesses, and the overall well-being of coastal communities. The need can’t be emphasize enough for proactive planning and investment in mitigation strategies to address the escalating problem of king tides.

We examine the mental health consequences of hurricanes, specifically focusing on the hurricane fatigue, prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression in hurricane-affected populations. We highlight the compounding effects of repeated hurricanes on mental health, as well as the role of environmental factors like green space and social support in mitigating those effects. We also provide recommendations for individuals and communities on how to cope with hurricane-related stress and trauma, and emphasize the importance of seeking professional help when needed.

The sources discuss the impact of Hurricane Helene on the housing markets in Florida, particularly in the Tampa Bay area. Several articles note that, following the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene and previous hurricanes, home prices tend to increase, as wealthier buyers move in and take advantage of the reduced housing supply. However, this influx of wealthier buyers can displace longtime residents, causing a shift in the social fabric of the community. The articles also highlight the challenges faced by homeowners with limited resources and how insurance rates and government assistance contribute to these trends.

Federal emergency response personnel in North Carolina were temporarily relocated due to reports of an "armed militia" threatening government workers involved in Hurricane Helene recovery efforts. Misinformation and rumors have been spreading throughout the affected areas, resulting in hostility towards federal agencies and a decline in the acceptance of aid offered by FEMA and the Forest Service. These incidents have also resulted in harassment and threats directed at federal employees. “Around 1 p.m. Saturday, an official with the U.S. Forest Service, which is supporting recovery efforts after Hurricane Helene along with the Federal Emergency Management Agency, sent an urgent message to numerous federal agencies warning that “FEMA has advised all federal responders Rutherford County, NC, to stand down and evacuate the county immediately. The message stated that National Guard troops 'had come across x2 trucks of armed militia saying there were out hunting FEMA.’” - Washington Post

Hurricane Milton is poised to severely impact Florida's already struggling property insurance market. This comes after the state faced record-breaking insurance costs and several insurance company failures, leading to the rise of Citizens Property Insurance Corporation, a non-profit that provides coverage to homeowners unable to find it in the private market. The state has been trying to stabilize the market through legal reforms and by encouraging private insurers to return, but Milton's potential devastation could push prices higher and further strain the system. Although Florida's real estate market remains resilient, a significant storm could lead to more insurers withdrawing from the state, leaving Citizens to cover a larger portion of the losses, potentially putting the state in a difficult financial position.

Advancements in hurricane forecasting with the introduction of the ECMWF EC-AIFS, a new artificial intelligence model does incredible job with Milton prediction. It boasts significantly higher accuracy compared to other models, predicting the landfall of Hurricane Milton with an error margin of only 13 miles. We emphasize the model's potential to save lives, resources, and time by pinpointing the most accurate landfall location. Additionally, the importance of continuously improving forecasting skills by analyzing past predictions and current atmospheric conditions to make the most informed decisions is an important part of hurricane forecasting today that need a human touch.

World Weather Attribution examines the effects of climate change on Hurricane Milton, which recently made landfall in Florida. The report from WA analyzes the hurricane's intensity, rainfall, and wind speeds, concluding that climate change significantly increased the likelihood and intensity of the storm. The report also discusses the impact of Hurricane Milton on Florida's infrastructure and preparedness, highlighting the vulnerability of low-income and minority communities. It then provides an overview of the effects of climate change on hurricanes globally, emphasizing the growing trend of more intense storms and the need for better preparedness and adaptation measures.

Claims are circulating on social media that former President Donald Trump is offering free lodging at his properties, including Mar-a-Lago, to Trump supporters displaced by Hurricane Milton. There are various posts from social media users, some claiming that Trump is offering shelter and others stating that the claims are false. It also includes a statement from a representative of Trump National Doral, saying that the hotel is fully booked. Do you think the claims about free lodging for Trump supporters at Mar-a-Lago are true?

We explore the spread of misinformation surrounding hurricanes, particularly the recent Hurricanes Helene and Milton.A Broward County School Board member has been spreading false claims about FEMA's response to Hurricane Helene, including that the agency was withholding aid and diverting funds. There are harmful effects of misinformation, specifically focusing on meteorologists who are facing threats and harassment from individuals who believe the government controls weather events. This misinformation is amplified during times of political polarization and heightened anxiety, particularly during election years. Brian McNoldy, a University of Miami meteorologist and reaseach scientist debunks conspiracy theories surrounding Hurricane Milton, including the claim that the government is manipulating weather patterns to steer the storm towards specific locations. These issues demonstrate the dangers of spreading misinformation during natural disasters, which can negatively impact relief efforts and potentially endanger lives. Cover photo from Miami New Times

The aftermath of Hurricane Milton, which hit Florida yesterday, and its impacts on different parts of the state will be memorable for years to comeThe storm's three phases, with intense tornadoes in the first phase, storm surge in the second, and strong winds and heavy rain in the third highlight that Hurricanes are not always one dimensional. The accuracy of the National Hurricane Center's forecasts, particularly for the storm's track were phenomenal, but challenges in predicting rapid intensification still exist. Florida hurricanes can come rapid fire, and while that’s not new, sea level rise and warming sea surface temperatures are bringing us new challenges. Increased preparedness and better construction standards should be the focus in order to weather these recurring hurricane threats.

Hurricane Milton is expected to make landfall on the West Coast of Florida, bringing with it the threat of dangerous storm surge, strong winds, and heavy rainfall. The National Hurricane Center has issued warnings for the entire Florida peninsula, urging residents to prepare for the storm by evacuating low-lying areas, securing their homes, and stocking up on essential supplies. The storm's impact is expected to be particularly severe in the Tampa Bay Area and Southwest Florida where the surge could reach up to 13 feet. With saturated soil from the preceding rain, the storm is expected to cause extensive tree damage and power outages.

SummaryHurricane Milton is headed for the state of Florida and we dissect the analysis of the potential storm surge impact, drawing comparisons to Hurricane Michael's landfall in 2018. Counterclockwise rotation of hurricanes, the storm surge is significantly lower on the left side of the eye (north side in Milton's case). Two scenarios are presented, one with Milton making landfall north of the Skyway Bridge and the other with Milton making landfall south. Meteorologist Bryan Bennett, who came up with this analysis gives us surge heights for various locations under both scenarios, highlighting the significant difference in surge flooding depending on Milton's landfall location. Including places like Sanibel Island, Ana Maria Island, downtown Tampa, St. Petersburg, Madeira Beach, Tarpon Springs and New Port Richey.Ultimately, please remember the importance of staying informed by following official forecasts and evacuation orders.

Hurricane Milton, a rapidly intensified to a Category 5 hurricane yesterday, and is expected to make landfall on Florida's west coast late Wednesday/Early Thursday. The storm is predicted to cause significant storm surge, especially in the Tampa Bay area, with potential for flooding up to 15 feet above normal. The storm's forecast increase in size will also produce widespread strong winds and heavy rainfall, increasing the risk of flash flooding. The local emergency managers have issued evacuation orders for areas in the path of the storm, and it is imperative that residents heed these warnings and prepare for extended power outages.

With Hurricane Milton, approaching Florida here are flood specific tips to help you out. Partial list at the bottom…A survivor of Hurricane Ian's flooding shares valuable advice based on their experience. They emphasize proactive measures to prepare for potential flooding, such as raising valuables off the floor, securing important documents, and preparing essential items like flashlights, medication, and pet supplies. The source also provides post-flood guidance, focusing on prioritizing safety, organizing debris, and meticulously documenting repair expenses. It stresses financial responsibility by recommending against insurance fraud and encourages seeking assistance from various resources like FEMA, the Red Cross, and county programs. The author highlights the importance of remaining calm, acknowledging that while the situation may feel overwhelming, it is possible to rebuild and overcome the adversity.Facebook Post from Brandy Barber:As a Florida Shores Hurricane Ian Flood Victim— here are some things I’d wished I’d thought of/things we did. (Since you cant control it, youll want to have your head in the game. This isn’t to cause fear, it’s to equip people because we’ve been through it and wish we would’ve known. Hindsight is always 20/20). If you think your home could flood with recent happenings/track record, then maybe pay attention. We got through it and if you do flood, I promise you will too. These things may seem extreme but trust me, at the first site of our yard flooding, and this is what we are doing: 🌀 BEFORE YOU FLOOD/PREVENTIVE MEASURES: 🌀•have your volume on/download apps. A flash flood warning woke me up and saved me from losing way more than I could’ve. •Documents, books, things in low drawers, pictures or basically anything on lower ground, move to countertops. Know exactly where your important info is in case you need it. That includes for your car, we lost 3 of those too. •We lost all electric appliances because they were in our low kitchen cabinets. Move them up higher (food processor, crockpot, griddles). •dry food- get out of lower cabinets. You’re going to be hungry while you wait for rescue. We had hot cheese and grapes to eat. Don’t be us. •We kept our bandaids/sanitary stuff/meds/blow dryers in a low bathroom cabinet and lost it all. Anything you think you might need that isn’t in a bottle, move it up the night before. •Turn your breaker off as soon as you start flooding even if your power is already out because you won’t be thinking of it, trust me. Somehow my magical husband did, but I sure didn’t. This can hurt you or a lineman when it back feeds. •watch out for extension cords from your generator into the home with standing water. Seems silly to tell you that, but your brain is going to be in shock already, so let’s not shock the rest of you. •If you have gas cans ready for your generator, don’t set them on the ground!!! Ours floated away and created toxic water all around us and in our house. •have a bucket of some sort to keep anything electronic dry for immediate use. (Phone/flash lights). •Get your pet food off of the ground. Have leashes on the table next to your food to get ready to leave on a moment’s notice •Know where your paddle board/kayak is if you have one and be ready to use it. It saved us •if your dog crates are on the floor, put them on your kitchen table or anywhere off the ground. We did this trudging through two feet of water and it wasn’t fun… Search for this Post on Facebook as text is limited here… I’ve reshared on my personal Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/pontiac51

Florida officials urge residents to take necessary precautions, such as checking their evacuation zones, preparing disaster supply kits, and finding a safe place to stay. They also emphasize the importance of leaving early to avoid traffic congestion and delays, noting that it may also take several days to return home after the storm passes. Milton is now a category three major hurricane with winds of 120 mph and is still expected to continue strengthening. Although unfavorable upper level winds may cause the storm to weaken prior to landfall, 12 foot storm surge is still a deadly concern. Remember to run from the water and hide from the wind… you don’t have to evacuate far if you are in an evacuation zone as it’s best to stay as close to home as possible. Check out the state of Florida’s emergency management website for more information on preparation and linking you up to your counties evacuation zone maps. Of course you can always search for your county evacuation zone map directly. https://www.floridadisaster.org/

Hurricane Milton, currently over the Gulf of Mexico, is intensifying and projected to become a major hurricane. The hurricane is forecast to make landfall on the west coast of Florida, potentially bringing life-threatening storm surge, damaging winds, and heavy rainfall. Residents in the Florida Peninsula are advised to monitor the storm's progress and follow the guidance of local officials.

Sunday afternoon update on Hurricane Milton, which is rapidly intensifying in the Gulf of Mexico. Details on the hurricane's current location, movement, and projected path, indicating that it is expected to become a major hurricane and approach the west coast of Florida by midweek. Hazards, including storm surge and heavy rainfall which could lead to flooding, and dangerous surf conditions along the Gulf Coast are a concern especially near and south of the landfall location. Points to the north of the center of circulation could see stronger wins and rain then on the so-called “dirty side“ which would normally be on the southside interaction with a jet streak the storm could be a little bit different. We looked at scenarios with, the potential for one north of Tampa Bay and a scenario for south of Tampa Bay.

As Milton heads toward Florida, here’s some guidance on preparing for the storm, particularly focusing on the potential dangers associated with lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles. Understanding and mitigating the risks of battery fires, especially when vehicles are damaged by floodwaters is important to your safety. Will give you some tips on food storage, water conservation, and securing important documents. We highlight the importance of having a plan for evacuating, staying safe, and ensuring access to essential services in the aftermath of a storm.

Tropical Storm Milton is strengthening rapidly in the Gulf of Mexico and is forecast to become a major hurricane by the middle of the week. The storm is expected to make landfall on the west coast of Florida, bringing the potential for life-threatening storm surge and damaging winds. Heavy rainfall is also expected to affect portions of Florida, leading to the risk of flooding. The storm's exact track and intensity remain uncertain, but there is growing concern about the potential for significant impacts on the Florida Peninsula.