June is Start of Hurricane Season

Florida is included in the “Atlantic hurricane season,” which covers the northern Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of America. 

The Atlantic hurricane season starts June 1 and ends Nov. 30.

Test Your Knowledge

1. Since 1900, how many Category 5 hurricanes have made landfall in Florida?
2. Which state has been hit by the most hurricanes?
3. What is the minimum sustained wind speed for a storm to be classified as a hurricane?

       Answers at the bottom of the page

Get Moving When a Storm Threatens

1. Protect your home: cover windows, secure doors and loose items
2. Determine sheltering options and consider your pets
3. Ready your go-bag, meds & supplies, charge your phone, fill up/charge vehicle
4. Help your neighbors, especially the elderly & other vulnerable people
5. Follow evacuation orders, if given.

Here are some of the basics you should have on hand:

• Water
• Non-perishable food
• Two-week supply of medications
• Batteries
• Flashlight
• Cash
• A go-bag with essential supplies in case you need to leave quickly
• Portable cellphone chargers
• Battery-operated radio
• List of emergency phone numbers, including those for family members
• Copy of your insurance policy

Test Your Knowledge (Answers)

1. Three Cat 5 hurricanes have made landfall in Florida. Labor Day, 1935 with winds estimated at 150 to 200 mph; Hurricane Andrew, 1992 with winds estimated at 165 mph; and Hurricane Michael with winds estimated at 161 mph.
2. Records dating back to 1851 show Florida – by far – has been hit by more hurricanes than any other state.
3. 74 miles per hour (119 kilometers per hour)