As the state begins bracing itself for the annual season of severe weather, Florida Polytechnic University reminds the campus community to take proactive steps to prepare for possible storm impacts. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30.
This year, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center forecasts an above-average season, with 13 to 19 named storms, including 6 to10 hurricanes. Up to five of these storms could become major hurricanes with winds of 111 miles per hour or higher.
The following resources can help the University community prepare and stay informed:
- Sign up for Florida Poly Alerts. This is the University’s primary channel for emergency communication and where you will receive immediate information if a hurricane or any other serious event affects Florida Poly. University email is used as a follow-up to the emergency alerts with more detailed information. All students are automatically enrolled in Florida Poly Alerts using their current contact information in CAMS and employees are enrolled using their current information in Workday.
- Download the Florida Poly Phoenix Safe app from the Apple or Android app store. The app sends users important alerts and provides instant access to campus safety resources.
- Build a disaster supply kit to last yourself and everyone in your household, including pets, for seven days. This checklist can help you and your loved ones remain safe through a hurricane or other emergency.
- Make a plan. Those who have a disaster plan in place can minimize confusion and worry during a hurricane.
- Stay informed. In addition to listening to the battery-operated radio in your emergency kit, it’s important to monitor resources such as the National Weather Service, the National Hurricane Center, and local weather resources. You also can call 211 during a disaster to get information about emergency shelters, food distribution, grief counseling, clean up and more.
- For more local information, visit Polk County’s disaster preparedness website.
- Monitor Florida Poly’s website and social media for important information that may affect you as storms approach throughout the season. Follow us on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
Contact:
Lydia Guzmán
Director of Communications
863-874-8557
