Are you Hurricane Ready? Get Prepared for Hurricane Season

BELLE GLADE, Fla – Are you hurricane ready? If not, prepare now! The 2025 hurricane season is predicted to bring 17 named storms, 9 hurricanes, and 4 major hurricanes. This week is National Hurricane Preparedness Week, and we are kicking off our hurricane preparedness series to make sure you are ready and safe this hurricane season. Being prepared for a hurricane can save your life and property. This series will provide essential tips and resources to prepare you for the 2025 hurricane season!

Understanding Hurricanes

What is a Hurricane?

Tropical cyclones are low-pressure weather systems that have organized thunderstorms but no fronts. When a tropical storm’s maximum sustained wind speed is over 74 mph, it becomes classified as a hurricane. Hurricanes are rated on a 1 to 5 scale based on wind speeds, with 5 being the most severe and most likely to cause property damage. A major hurricane is any hurricane that is a category 3 or above. The scale does not account for other deadly hazards such as storm surge, rainfall flooding, or tornadoes. See the table below for the hurricane categories and the types of damage each can cause.

Table showing hurricane severity and damage based on sustained wind speeds. — Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale from https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/aboutsshws.php

Why Preparation is Vital

Downed concrete power line due to Hurricane Milton in front of a parking lot and building, surrounded by down or damaged trees. — Concrete powerline knocked down by Hurricane Milton at the St. Lucie County Extension’s Hurricane House captured by Robin Koestoyo

57% of Americans report that they are not yet prepared for a disaster, such as a hurricane. With 3 hurricanes making landfall in Florida in 2024, 2 as major hurricanes, preparing for a storm is essential. It is not a matter of preparing for if a storm will impact you; it is preparing for when a storm will impact you.

For perspective: Hurricane Milton made landfall as a Category 3 in October of 2024. Hurricane Milton caused at least 45 confirmed tornadoes across South and Central Florida, 5 to 10 foot storm surges, 32 deaths, and an estimated 34.3 billion dollars in damage. Having a plan and supplies well before a storm is announced ensures you have everything you need for a hurricane while supplies are still available.

Being hurricane ready protects you, your family, and your home!

Stay Tuned

In our next post, discover the essentials needed for your hurricane kit and how to create a family emergency plan!