How to Travel During a Tropical Storm in Florida

The state of Florida is a popular tourist destination, with more than 80 million vacationers visiting Florida each year. With a hurricane season that spans 6 months, from June 1 through November 30, people who visit Florida during hurricane season risk having to travel during a tropical storm. Though the cyclones that often accompany the storms aren't considered hurricanes till they reach 74-miles-per hour, even a mild storm can throw a wrench in your plans. Anticipate and plan for the possibility you could be traveling during any kind of tropical storm in Florida. Take proper precautions to ensure that everyone stays safe.

Instructions

1

Contact your airline if you are already in Florida when a tropical storm is approaching. Ask the airline how the storm could affect your dates to travel home, and what accommodations, if any, will the airline make should your flight be cancelled. The airline's response may require you to fly out of Florida earlier than you planned. If you are planning your trip in the heart of hurricane season, prepare a contingency plan in case you are unable to fly out when you need to, i.e., take contact information for car rental car agencies in the area or ask your hotel if you can extend your stay should your flights be cancelled.

2

Stop by the hotel desk on the way out to ensure that local attractions are still open if a tropical storm is in the area. Many coastal sites will have to close, but destinations located further inland typically stay open. Only the most severe of storms will close destinations such as Disney World or Universal Studios. If these theme parks do have to close, they will reopen as soon as possible, sometimes later the same day.

3

Drive cautiously and be aware of the increased risk of hydroplaning during heavy rain. Be prepared for frequent lightening strikes. Florida is widely known as the lightning capital of the United States and has a very high strike rate. The metal barriers used along the edges of highways can attract these stunning bolts. You're safe while in your car, but you should be prepared for these distractions and focus on the road ahead.

4

Stay informed and alert to about upcoming weather conditions and evacuation requirements. If you are vacationing in a coastal area, be prepared to evacuate. The Florida Keys are typically the first area to require an evacuation and tourists will be asked to leave before residents. Some coastal areas in Florida have developed emergency communications programs to assist tourist when evacuations occur. Most of these programs provide coordination with emergency management, the the tourism bureau and hotels to assure important information is shared with visitors. Some areas set up hotlines with specific instructions how to safely leave the area. If you don't have transportation, shuttles and buses are widely available during these situations, and your hotel should be able to direct you to one of these resources.