TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—This National Preparedness Month, Attorney General Ashley Moody is urging Floridians to remain vigilant. National Preparedness Month raises awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies that could happen at any time. September also marks the peak of hurricane season. Currently, there are multiple tropical systems in the Atlantic Ocean, including Hurricane Lee. Florida just endured the effects of Hurricane Idalia late last month and recovery efforts will be ongoing for the foreseeable future. To help Floridians solidify storm-readiness plans, Attorney General Moody is highlighting the 2023 Hurricane Preparedness Guide.
Attorney General Ashley Moody said, “In emergency situations, proper preparations can make all the difference. As we recognize National Preparedness Month, move through the peak of hurricane season, and see heavy storm activity in the Atlantic, I encourage all Floridians to take another look at our 2023 Hurricane Preparedness Guide to solidify storm preparations.”
The Atlantic Hurricane season peaks between mid-August and mid-October. Hurricane Lee and Hurricane Margot are both strong storms currently moving through the Atlantic Ocean, and thankfully not forecasted to reach Florida. However, Floridians should still be prepared. On Aug. 30, Hurricane Idalia hit Florida’s Big Bend region, and residents are still recovering from the storm that caused billions of dollars in damage.
Below is a graph from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration showing hurricane and tropical storm activity from 1944 to 2020.
Preparedness tips provided in the guide include:
- Know evacuation routes and shelter locations;
- Stock up on enough food, water and emergency supplies for the entire household for at least seven days or more;
- Check that storm-related products are hurricane-proof or impact-proof before purchasing;
- Research recovery charities before donating;
- Beware of unsolicited contractors and extremely low or high prices for quotes; and
- Report price gouging during a state of emergency, including online or on the free No Scam app.
Floridians can stay informed about serious storm events using the Florida Division of Emergency Management’s website, FloridaDisaster.org. Floridians can monitor a storm’s progression and the latest weather alerts using the NOAA’s Hurricane Center by visiting NHC.NOAA.gov.
In the event of an incoming tropical storm or hurricane, Floridians should look for further guidance from local officials and emergency managers.
To report potential price gouging during a declared state of emergency, use the No Scam app, call 1(866) 9NO-SCAM or file a complaint online at MyFloridaLegal.com.
