Hurricane

Whether you're a longtime Florida resident or a recent transplant, we all have to navigate hurricanes. This beginner’s guide to hurricane season in South Florida will break down the difference between storm watches and storm warnings; what not to do as a storm develops and what to put in your hurricane kit.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said a looming El Niño weather pattern could help produce a below average season, but warned uncertainty about the forecast put the odds for a slow season at just 55%.

There’s no consensus on what’s driving Florida’s soaring insurance rates. A national report points to increasingly costly weather events — many of which are intensified by climate change — but some industry experts blame years of rampant litigation and soaring reinsurance costs.

Insurance is supposed to soften the blow when homes burn or flood. With some preparation, you can better your odds of a smoother recovery if disaster strikes.

Forecasters expect 8 to 14 storms will form in the Atlantic between June 1 and November 30. But the danger is more serious than the numbers suggest.

Every year, Americans rely on accurate forecasts when hurricanes might be developing to know when to stock up on supplies, prepare for power outages or evacuate. Those forecasts have improved dramatically in recent decades, but the improvements can’t be taken for granted.

During its annual storm drill, Florida Power & Light practiced rapid response for a mock Category 2 hurricane to keep customers in power during an extreme storm.

With hurricane season approaching, the National Hurricane Center is preparing to test a new forecast cone and mobile-friendly web pages. Meanwhile, the Trump administration has again proposed eliminating offices that investigate hurricanes and improve forecasts.

Clear skies can be misleading. In Florida, some of the most dangerous hurricane hazards begin after the storm—during cleanup, return, and recovery.

During storm season focusing on protection during the storm is mission critical. And in Florida, that can mean wind, water, and tornadoes all unfolding at the same time.

In Florida, evacuation and final preparations need to happen before conditions deteriorate—because the safe window often closes faster than expected.

The best time to prepare in Florida is before hurricane season ramps up—when supplies, insurance decisions, and evacuation plans can be made without pressure.