This hurricane season has been pretty active already but it still isn’t the time to feel relieved. Hurricane Ian has been one of the worst disasters in Florida’s history, but as previous information shows it is still possible for more hurricanes. Hurricane season officially ends on November 30 of each year. Although hurricanes aren’t common around November, it has happened before and it’s best to stay prepared. 

Preparations throughout the entire hurricane season is essential. Running the risks of last-minute preparations isn’t worth it. Noticentro WAPA Chief Meteorologist Ada Monzón discusses the importance of staying prepared. She says, “Our resilience to atmospheric phenomena depends on our preparation to face the loss of basic services such as water and power, and to have a safe home.” Monzon also says that with climate change, it’s more important than ever to stay prepared because hurricanes are becoming stronger each year.

Florida is certainly no stranger to hurricanes. In 2004, a total of four hurricanes made landfall in the state. Hurricanes Charley, Frances, Ivan and Jeanne are names that most Floridians haven’t forgotten. These systems occurred in a span of just six weeks. The damage left by the hurricanes reached into the high billions. 

Since Florida is exposed to such events, remaining safe is a priority. Tornadoes are also a concern. With winds so strong they can destroy nearly anything in their way. Tornadoes are destructive because of their slow ground speed and high wind speeds, traveling at about 10-20 miles an hour with winds of several hundred miles an hour. 

There is still more than a month left of hurricane season. Some systems can even last until early December. It’s dangerous to think what could happen if people aren’t prepared for the remainder of hurricane season. The good thing is to learn from each season and figure out what can be done better to prepare. Never forget, safety is the most important thing to keep in mind during a hurricane.