For students across the Northern Hemisphere, those who don’t want to go to school pray and hope for a snow day the night before. Us Floridians wish for hurricane days.
As summer reaches its end, residents of Florida are bracing for the peak of hurricane season, a time of year notorious for powerful storms, high winds, and torrential rain. For students and families alike, understanding what this season entails and preparing for the potential risks is crucial. With Florida located in the heart of the Atlantic hurricane belt, the state’s residents know all too well how unpredictable and devastating these storms can be.
Hurricane season officially begins on June 1 and lasts until November 30, but the most dangerous period usually occurs between mid-August and late October. This is when conditions in the Atlantic Ocean are most favorable for tropical storms to develop and intensify. Warm ocean waters, low wind shear, and increased atmospheric instability create a perfect recipe for hurricanes to form. Historically, September 10 marks the statistical peak of the season, but storms can strike before and after this date, as we see with Hurricane Helene,
Schools in the majority of Florida have been shut down due to Hurricane Helene, with wind speeds of above 30 miles per hour in our area.
Kiera-Ann Tillmon, a Health academy junior shares her perspective: “Honestly, I was happy when they announced that there was no school due to the hurricane. It allowed me to get some extra study time and not have to worry about the weather in school.
For students and schools across Florida, the peak of hurricane season means more than just the possibility of missing classes due to closures. Hurricanes pose serious risks to homes, infrastructure, and safety. Power outages, flooding, and displacement are common consequences.
Tips to stay safe
It’s essential to discuss with your family what to do in the event of a hurricane, including knowing your evacuation zone and establishing a communication plan in case you get separated. Creating an emergency kit is crucial; this should include essentials like non-perishable food, water, flashlights, batteries, first-aid supplies, and important documents, while also considering the needs of any pets or special items you may require. Staying informed by monitoring local news and weather updates can help you make timely decisions. Prior to a storm, securing your property by checking for loose items and considering storm shutters can protect against debris. Additionally, creating a family emergency plan, practicing drills, and reviewing your insurance coverage for hurricane damage are vital steps in ensuring safety. By preparing in advance and staying informed, you can help protect yourself and your loved ones during hurricane season.
Other than the obvious—flying coconuts and potential roof damage—peak hurricane season can mess with our daily routines. Schools may close, power might go out, and you could be left asking, “Did we remember to buy batteries this time?” On a more serious note, these storms can cause flooding, damage to homes, and disrupt communities. So, a little prep goes a long way when it comes to avoiding mishaps during a power outage.
“For this hurricane, I made sure to charge all of my stuff and pack up anything important, in case our house flooded. Hurricanes happen all the time in Florida, but it’s still important to prepare. Stay safe guys!” says Trevin Le, a sophomore.
The peak of hurricane season serves as a reminder of the importance of preparation and awareness for families across Florida. Hurricanes, though Florida’s ‘snow days’ are not something to be taken lightly, and ensuring that your family is ready and knows how to respond can make a crucial difference during times of crisis. As we navigate this challenging season, prioritize safety and resilience, reinforcing our ability to weather the storm together.