The Atlantic hurricane season starts on Saturday, June 1, bringing with it the potential for strong storms in Central Florida.
While the exact timing and strength of storms can’t yet be known, forecasters at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center again expect an above-average hurricane activity in the Atlantic with 17-25 named storms this season. Of those, eight to 13 are expected to become hurricanes, including four to seven major hurricanes at Category 3 or above.
Florida Polytechnic University urges students and employees to take early actions to prepare for possible storm impacts. Taking steps now before severe weather approaches can reduce anxiety and help everyone avoid potential dangers throughout hurricane season. These links can help you 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.
Take advantage of the annual Florida Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday from June 1-9. Click here to learn about what items are included.
Build a disaster supply kit to last yourself and everyone in your household, including pets, for seven days. This 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 (formerly Twitter), and Instagram.
Contact:
Lydia Guzmán
Director of Communications
863-874-8557
