When planning a trip to northwest Florida during hurricane season, it's essential to take the necessary safety precautions. It's wise to contact airlines, hotels, car rental companies, and other travel providers to find out their policies in case of a hurricane. It's also important to note that the direct impact of a major hurricane on a given destination is an extremely rare event. The safety of visitors is the top priority when it comes to closing and opening Florida's state parks in bad weather.
A hurricane warning is issued when hurricane conditions are expected within 48 hours, and a warning is issued when a hurricane with sustained winds of 74 mph or more is expected to reach a specific coastal area in 36 hours or less. VISIT FLORIDA works closely with the Florida Division of Emergency Management, local tourism offices across the state, and local, state and national media to ensure that visitors have access to accurate and timely information to help them make the most informed travel planning decisions possible. More than a thousand miles away, communities in southwest Florida are still assessing the damage caused by Hurricane Ian, something that Puerto Rico knows all too well after Hurricane Maria hit the island five years ago. Here are answers to frequently asked questions from visitors who travel to or plan to travel to Florida during hurricane season.
When visiting a beach in northwest Florida during hurricane season, it's important to stay informed about the latest weather conditions. Check local news sources for updates on any potential storms or hurricanes that may be headed your way. It's also important to be aware of any evacuation orders that may be issued for your area. If an evacuation order is issued, it's best to follow it as soon as possible.
It's also important to be prepared for any potential storm or hurricane. Make sure you have an emergency kit with supplies such as food, water, flashlights, batteries, and first aid supplies. Have a plan for where you will go if an evacuation order is issued. It's also wise to have an emergency contact list with phone numbers of family members and friends who can help you if needed.
Finally, it's important to be aware of your surroundings when visiting a beach in northwest Florida during hurricane season. Pay attention to any changes in the weather or ocean conditions that could indicate an approaching storm or hurricane. Be sure to follow any instructions from lifeguards or other beach personnel if they advise you to leave the beach due to dangerous conditions.
