Hurricanes

Florida has a long history with Hurricanes, and as a visitor to the state, it is important to be aware of these storms. Floridas tropical location makes it vulnerable to Hurricanes, for the westerly wind that blows off of the African Coasts along the Equator and tends to swoop up into the Caribbean and Southern United States. The word “Hurricane” probably comes from via Spanish Conquistadors, who picked up the term from the Taino Indian word “Huracan” (Evil Spirit), which they received from the Mayan word, “Huraken” (God of Storms and Bad Weather). As this history of the word shows us, people have long been aware that Hurricanes can hammer Florida, and this well known history actually works to your advantage.

Hurricane Season lasts from June 1st to November 30th. Some years are more active than others. Hurricanes must be taken seriously, but having said that, since Hurricanes are a fact of life in Florida, the damage they do are generally not that severe. Florida has learned how to minimize/prevent catastrophe over the course of its many run-ins with Hurricanes. The buildings are built to withstand these storms, there are easy evacuation routes, there is ample warning time (usually days in advance), and even the palm trees are resilient to the high winds. There are highly trained people to help you prepare for the Hurricane, such as your concierge, police department, fire department, newscasters, and radio broadcasters. Strange to say, but if you are in Florida during a Hurricane, you’re relatively not in much danger. Provided of course, you take these simple precautions.

If waiting out a violent storm is not your cup of tea, you can always leave. Warnings come days in advance, and Airlines are very accommodating in sending more planes to Florida airports to evacuate vacationers. Call your airline directly and see what flight they can put you on. It is perfectly reasonable to leave Florida in the case of a Hurricane – we recommend it. Common sense says the further you get away from the Hurricane, the better off you’ll be. If it is at all possible, leave the state.

Yet if you can’t leave the state and you are staying in a hotel, ask the front desk or concierge what their policy is with Hurricanes. Some hotels have a mandatory policy where everyone must evacuate – but they usually have an evacuation spot for all of its patrons. One night in this safety location is not the end of the world. If you have questions or concerns, express them to the concierge. They will help you find a place to wait out the storm, or will assist you in finalizing your plans to leave the state early.

While hotels are built to withstand minimal to no structural damage due to Hurricanes, RV Parks, Campsites, and Trailer homes are at risk. Do not stay in these areas during a Hurricane. These flimsy abodes are no match for the high winds and debris. Evacuation is mandatory for people living in these conditions.

If you cannot leave the state, it is imperative you leave the coast. The ocean swells and becomes extremely violent during a Hurricane. Houses on the coast are at risk of extreme damage. To not evacuate the coast is foolish; it is usually mandatory, and staying is akin to wrestling Mother Nature, who is a lot more powerful than you. Going inland greatly reduces any risks of danger.

Hurricane Guarantees are becoming more popular. Say you waited out the Hurricane – what about all that money you spent on your vacation? Some places will reimburse you. Check with your lodging to see if they have a policy similar to this.

If your vacation to Florida falls during the Hurricane Season, don’t fret too much over it – none of the locals do. There is a great chance that you won’t see a Hurricane during your trip! Yet if a Hurricane does develop, we hope our helpful pointers will guide you to safety.

Florida Tourists Guide