Florida State Emergency Response Team Information Blog

FLORIDIANS ARE ENCOURAGED TO HELP RECENT U.S.TORNADO AND FLOOD SURVIVORS

2011-05-20T14:08:00.002-04:00

The Florida Division of Emergency Management, along with the Governor’s Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service (Volunteer Florida) and Florida’s Disaster Fund (Florida’s Foundation) are encouraging Floridians to assist the Southeastern and Central United States that were impacted by tornadoes late last month and are still facing devastating damage from flooding. However, these agencies encourage Floridians to donate wisely to ensure donations are helpful and effective.

“Floridians know, based on our own history of hurricanes and other disasters, that the coordination of volunteers and donations is essential to recovery,” said Bryan W. Koon, director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management.

“I have spoken to our counterparts in these states and they are working around the clock to coordinate volunteers and donations,” said Volunteer Florida CEO Wendy Spencer. “Floridians want to do their part to help out, and by donating cash or sending donations through an experienced relief organization they can be sure their assistance is meeting the most critical needs.”

Volunteer Florida, one of Florida’s lead agencies responsible for the coordination of donations and engagement of volunteers in disaster relief, and Florida’s Disaster Fund offer the following tips on how to donate wisely to support the Southeastern and Central states:

Financial Contributions are Critical and Effective
Cash donations help to avoid the labor and expense of sorting, packaging, transporting and distributing donated goods, and voluntary relief agencies can use cash to meet disaster survivors’ specific needs more quickly.

Donate to an Experienced Disaster Relief Organization
Relief agencies prefer the versatility of cash donations; however, experienced disaster relief organizations frequently have the infrastructure in place to store and distribute donated goods. To prevent waste, donations of goods should be made only to agencies that have requested specific items.

Confirm Needs Before Collecting
Donors should be wary of anyone who claims that “everything is needed.” A community hit by disaster does not have the time, staffing or money to dispose of unneeded donations. Many groups have been disappointed that their efforts and the goods they collected were not appreciated. Get precise information and confirm the need before collecting any donated goods.

Assistance Needed State-By-State
Thirteen states in the U.S. Southeastern and Central regions have been impacted by recent floods and tornadoes: Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Wisconsin. Donations can be made to each of these specific states through the National Donations Management Network, www.aidmatrixnetwork.org; additional points of contact for select states are listed below.

Alabama: www.servealabama.gov or 888-421-1266
Tennessee: www.volunteertennessee.net
Mississippi: www.mcvs.org or toll-free number 888-353-1793
Louisiana: www.volunteerlouisiana.gov or toll-free 866-286-3835

The Florida Division of Emergency Management and Volunteer Florida have also provided trained disaster personnel to assist impacted states in recovery from the recent severe weather.

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The Governor’s Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service, Volunteer Florida, was established in 1994 by the Florida Legislature to administer grants under the National and Community Service Trust Act of 1993. The Commission grants funds to Florida AmeriCorps and National Service programs; coordinates volunteerism in disaster preparedness, response and recovery; and helps to strengthen and expand volunteer engagement for everyone from youths to seniors to people with disabilities. For more information, visit: www.volunteerflorida.org.

The Florida’s Disaster Fund is managed by Florida’s Foundation, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable organization. The mission of the Florida’s Disaster Fund is to raise funds to help Floridians with recovery from natural disasters through strengthening families and rebuilding communities. For more information, visit: www.fladisasterrecoveryfund.org.

For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org . Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsert and on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/FloridaSERT.

DIGITAL BILLBOARD OPERATORS ACROSS FLORIDA TO BROADCAST TEST EMERGENCY ALERTS DURING STATEWIDE HURRICANE EXERCISE MAY 23 - 26, 2011

2011-05-20T12:12:00.002-04:00

The Florida Division of Emergency Management, in partnership with the Florida Outdoor Advertising Association (FOAA) and its operator members, will sponsor important test emergency alerts to be broadcast on digital billboards across Florida. This will occur in coordination with the start of the State Emergency Response Team’s Statewide Hurricane Exercise on May 23, 2011.

“This FOAA public alert system will help us ensure our residents and visitors get critical information should a real hurricane threaten our state this season,” said Director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management, Bryan W. Koon. “We greatly appreciate this partnership with the FOAA and the dedication of its members to the safety and wellbeing of Floridians during disasters.”

The “TEST” emergency alert will be broadcast on May 23, 2011 between 12:00 – 2:00 p.m., and 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. In addition, FOAA members will also be donating space on their digital billboards statewide to raise awareness for hurricane preparedness by posting five different messages (based on space availability) from May 21 - May 31, 2011. The Division of Emergency Management will include the geo-location of each of these billboard sites on its publicly available GIS mapping tool – the Geospatial Assessment Tool for Operations and Response (GATOR) which is available at http://map.floridadisaster.org/gator/. This is an additional avenue for the public and emergency managers to access important information during any disaster event.

The goal of this test is to enable Florida’s general public to preview test emergency alerts for future reference in emergency situations. The list of all digital billboards in the state and a copy of the “TEST” emergency alert artwork are available upon request.

For more information on the Florida Outdoor Advertising Association, please visit www.FOAA.org, and for more about the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsert and on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/FloridaSERT.

FLORIDA RESPONDS TO MISSISSIPPI AND ALABAMA’S REQUESTS FOR ASSISTANCE IN TORNADO DISASTER RECOVERY

2011-05-06T09:40:00.002-04:00

The State of Florida has received requests from the states of Mississippi and Alabama to provide trained disaster personnel to assist in the recovery from recent severe weather that produced devastating tornados across the region. The Division of Emergency Management provides interstate assistance as a part of the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), which allows disaster-impacted states to request and receive assistance from other states quickly and efficiently.

“Our utmost concern is for the health and safety of the residents of the states impacted by this disaster,” said Bryan W. Koon, director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management. “In accordance with our Emergency Management Assistance Compact, we send our solemn support in this time of great need.”

The personnel requested will work to fill mission-critical needs identified by Mississippi and Alabama’s emergency managers. In Mississippi, Florida will provide technical support to the state and local emergency management agencies in the areas of disaster recovery operations, emergency housing, and individual assistance to tornado-affected areas. In Alabama, the State will send personnel to assist in the coordination of Amateur Radio communications, volunteers and donations, and public information. Under the EMAC agreement, any Florida agency that provides requested staff and resources will receive a complete cost reimbursement from the requesting state.

For more information on the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsert and on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/FloridaSERT.

FLORIDA RECEIVES FIRE MANAGEMENT ASSISTANCE GRANT FOR COLLIER COUNTY

2011-04-28T09:18:00.003-04:00

The State of Florida has received a Fire Management Assistance Grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), allowing the use of federal funds to reimburse response costs to fight the Slope Wildfire in Collier County.

“We are very grateful for the rapid response from FEMA to our request for assistance,” said Bryan W. Koon, director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management. “This Fire Management Assistance Grant will ensure that local and state responders have the resources they need to fight this wildfire and to help save homes and property.”

State emergency and Division of Forestry officials requested the Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) for Collier County late Wednesday afternoon and the request was granted early Thursday morning. The Slope Wildfire in Collier County has grown to more than 1,500 acres and is presently threatening Golden Gate Estates.

Federal fire management assistance covers seventy-five percent of eligible fire response costs such as field camps; equipment use; tools, materials and supplies; additional personnel; aircraft utilization, as well mobilization and demobilization activities.

For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsert and on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/FloridaSERT.

STRONG COLD FRONT TO BRING POTENTIALLY SEVERE WEATHER TONIGHT TO FLORIDA PANHANDLE AND BIG BEND AREAS

2011-04-15T16:57:00.002-04:00

State and local emergency management officials are encouraging residents and visitors in the Florida Panhandle and Florida Big Bend areas to stay alert and exercise caution as a potentially severe storm system moves into the area.

“The NOAA Storm Prediction Center has placed all of the Florida Panhandle and Western Big Bend in an area for an enhanced risk of severe storms on Friday night into Saturday,” said Amy Godsey, State Meteorologist. “This severe weather threat may spread east through Saturday, and we encourage residents and visitors across the region to monitor this weather system and to be prepared to act if warnings are issued.”

This storm system will have the potential to produce large hail, damaging wind gusts and isolated tornadoes. Residents and visitors to the state should monitor local media outlets and ensure that their NOAA All-Hazards Weather Radio alert settings are turned on.

A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms. A Tornado Warning means a tornado has been reported as sighted, or been picked up on radar in the area.

For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsert.

Florida Division of Emergency Management Conducts a Successful Exercise with Turkey Point Nuclear Power Facility

2011-03-25T10:05:00.004-04:00

The Florida Division of Emergency Management received a draft evaluation this week from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) that the state, in coordination with county partners and Florida Power and Light, has conducted a successful exercise on February 23, 2011 with the Turkey Point Nuclear Power Plant located in Biscayne Bay, Florida.

“I applaud our state, local and private sector team’s dedication to successfully completing this annual exercise,” said Bryan W. Koon, Director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management. “Every individual who participated showed exceptional effort to make this exercise a success.”

The overall objective of the exercise was to assess the level of state and local preparedness in responding to a simulated radiological emergency at the Turkey Point Nuclear Power Plant. No Deficiencies or Areas Requiring Corrective Action were identified by the federal evaluators.

Each year, all nuclear power plants (Crystal River, Turkey Point, and Saint Lucie, as well as Farley in Dothan AL), conduct a full-scale exercise with the surrounding counties, state, FEMA, and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. These exercises ensure all levels of government are well-versed on the plans and procedures needed to respond to an emergency.

For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN! please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsert.

DEM Launches Online Continuity of Government Website to Make State and Local Disaster Planning Easier and More Efficient

2011-03-22T13:19:00.000-04:00

The Florida Division of Emergency Management announced today the launch of an online planning tool that will help state agencies, local governments, and non-governmental organizations create plans for the continuity of government during and after a disaster. This innovative tool will help ensure that all agencies and local governments can continue to meet the needs of its citizens after a severe emergency. Furthermore, this web-based planning resource makes it easier for state agencies and local governments to prepare for the potential needs of their citizens after catastrophic incidents.

Florida’s long experience with emergency situations teaches us that disasters can impact an organization’s leadership capabilities and ability to deliver crucial services. This interactive tool ensures that state agencies and local governments possess the necessary plans to provide continuous leadership and authority during a major event. A continuity of government plan reinforces an organization’s stability and legal authority to act in a crisis, and helps to ensure that the lifesaving mission of state and local agencies continue even after a severe disaster impact.

Planning for continuity of government operations maximizes the ability of state agencies and local governments to provide three critical services to residents during and after disasters, namely:

 Reducing and mitigating the disruption to essential government functions
 Ensuring that there are approved plans for the transfer of operational command and control
 Creating a pre-approved decision mechanism for delegations of authority

The Division conducted a series of BETA tests with several state and local agencies before officially launching the website. This testing enabled programmers to troubleshoot any potential problems with the system, and allowed agencies to provide valuable feedback to better the system.

To create your own family disaster survival plan, please visit FloridaDisaster.org. Once there, you can develop an individualized plan to keep you and your family safe during an emergency.

High Risk Of Rip Currents Expected Along Florida’s Southeast Coast Today And Tomorrow

2011-03-21T11:47:00.001-04:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are reminding beachgoers in Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade counties to be aware today through Tuesday as a high risk of rip currents is expected. There is also a moderate risk for beaches along the East Coast from Nassau County south to Martin County through Tuesday. Those traveling to the beach should stay out of the water where red flags are flying.

“Florida residents and visitors need to be aware that beach conditions could be rough along the state’s East Coast today and tomorrow,” said State Meteorologist Amy Godsey. “It’s important to check the beach warning flags before entering the water and to swim within sight of a lifeguard whenever possible.”

A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water that runs perpendicular to the beach, out into the ocean. These currents may extend 200 to 2,500 feet (61 to 762 meters) lengthwise, but they are typically less than 30 feet (9 meters) wide. Also, rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster and are not always identifiable to the average beachgoer.

When at the beach:
• Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
• Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches.
• Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify hazards. Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
• Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake. Also, never swim alone.
• Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.
• Consider using polarized sunglasses when at the beach. They will help you to spot signatures of rip currents by cutting down glare and reflected sunlight off the ocean’s surface.
• Pay especially close attention to children and persons who are elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.

If caught in a rip current:
• Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
• Never fight against the current.
• Think of a rip current like a treadmill that cannot be turned off, which you need to step to the side of.
• Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
• If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
• If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arm and yelling for help.

If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:
• Get help from a lifeguard.
• If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.
• Throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.
• Yell instructions on how to escape.
• Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.

Follow safe boating practices:
• Have a VHF Marine Band Radio and NOAA Weather Radio on board.
• Check the marine forecast well ahead of time.
• Know the limitations of your boat. If small craft advisories or gale warnings are issued, you should postpone travel.
• Be sure everyone aboard is wearing a life jacket.
• File a float plan at your marina.
• Thunderstorms and weather-related hazards form quickly. Never let these storms cut off your route back to land.

Beachgoers who want to learn more about rip currents can visit www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov. Boaters can go to www.srh.noaa.gov/wml to check the current marine conditions and updated forecasts. For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsert.

Did You Know?

2011-03-18T16:49:00.001-04:00

As standard homeowner’s insurance does not cover flooding, the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) offers coverage to protect residents from floods associated with hurricanes, ruptured dams, mudflow, snow melts and other such conditions. Administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), this program was created by the U.S. Congress in 1968 to assist residents with flood damages to their home, as well as furniture, clothing and other household goods.

NFIP policies are available to homeowners, renters, condo owners/renters and commercial owners/renters. Costs vary depending on how much insurance is purchased, what it covers and the property's flood risk. Policies can be purchased through participating property and casualty insurance agents. Rates are set and do not differ from company to company or agent to agent. These rates depend on many factors, however, which include the date and type of construction of your home, along with your building’s level of risk.

Homeowners and renters who live in moderate or low-risk areas are also advised to get flood insurance as approximately 25 percent of all flood insurance claims come from these areas. Because of the moderate-to-low flood risk, NFIP’s Preferred Risk Policy (a lower-cost flood insurance policy) may be available.

Flood insurance is available for businesses as well. Policies provided coverage for high-risk or moderate-to-low-risk areas with the option to purchase coverage for both the building and its contents or just the contents.

Get Floodsmart and review your options for insurance today.

For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A
PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org.

Did You Know?

2011-03-17T09:34:00.001-04:00

According to the United States Department of Energy, nuclear power plants provide approximately 20 percent of the country’s overall power production. In Florida, nuclear power accounts for approximately 15 percent of the state’s total electric capacity.

Nuclear power plants are rigorously monitored by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission. To meet federal requirements, each facility undergoes frequent emergency preparedness drills. State and local governments also provide additional oversight, and both scheduled and unannounced inspections are conducted throughout the year. Nuclear power facilities must also have a detailed emergency plan available for those who live, work, visit, or attend school within 10 miles of the facility.

Each of the three nuclear power facilities within the Sunshine State have heavily fortified reactor containment buildings that are designed to withstand flooding and a storm surge of 20 feet above sea level. In 1992, this design was tested when Turkey Point Nuclear Power Plant safely withstood the storm surge and winds from Hurricane Andrew, a Category 5 hurricane.

For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A
PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org.

MARCH 14 – 18, 2011 IS NATIONAL FLOOD SAFETY AWARENESS WEEK

2011-03-14T09:44:00.001-04:00

Florida Emergency Management officials are reminding residents and visitors that this week is National Flood Safety Awareness Week. The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) partners with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) to raise awareness during the Week of some of the many ways floods can occur, the hazards associated with floods and what you can do to protect life and property.

“Whether due to summer rains, hurricane season, or severe weather season, the Sunshine State can experience flooding at any time of the year,” said Florida Division of Emergency Management Director Bryan W. Koon. “I encourage all Floridians to take the opportunity during this important week to learn how to better prepare for flood events and to update their family disaster plans.”

Facts on flooding in Florida:

• Flooding is one of Florida’s most frequent storm-related hazards.
• Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars, causing loss of control and possible stalling, and 24 inches of water will float many vehicles.
• Many types of floods can occur in Florida:
o Areal floods are the most common flood threat in Florida. They often occur due to heavy rainfall over a larger area in a brief period of time. Urban areas are particularly vulnerable to this type of flooding. Additionally, a prolonged period of rainfall can also lead to flooding, often causing dangerous inundation of low lying areas.
o A flash flood is characterized as a rapid and significant rise in water level due to a sudden and intense heavy rainfall event. Flash flooding also occurs with the uncontrolled release of water held by a dam or levee.
o River flooding occurs each year in Florida. Although river flooding can be predicted, its effects, even over a longer period of time, can cause extensive damage to residents living near rivers and streams.
To avoid getting caught in a flood, follow these safety rules:

• NOAA All-Hazards Weather Radio is one of the best ways to receive warnings from the National Weather Service. Monitor the NOAA Weather Radio or your local news sources for vital weather-related information.
• If flooding occurs, get to higher ground. Get out of areas subject to flooding, including dips, low spots, canals, ditches, etc.
• Avoid areas already flooded, especially if the water is flowing fast. Do not attempt to cross flowing streams.
• Road beds may be washed out under flood waters. NEVER drive through flooded roadways.
• Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams and washes, particularly during threatening conditions.
• Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.

One of the most important things you can do to protect your home and family before a flood is to have a family or business plan and purchase a federal flood insurance policy. For more information on the Week, tips on protecting your home, and how to purchase flood insurance, please visit www.FloodSafety.noaa.gov and www.FloodSmart.gov.

For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsert or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

SOUTHEAST WINDS BRING A HIGH RISK OF RIP CURRENTS FOR FLORIDA’S PANHANDLE BEACHES TODAY AND TOMORROW

2011-03-08T14:31:00.001-05:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are reminding beachgoers along Panhandle beaches to be aware today and tomorrow as a high risk of rip currents is expected. Those traveling to the beach should stay out of the water where red flags are flying.

“The same system that is bringing the threat of severe weather to the state will also cause rough waves and rip currents along the Florida Panhandle Coast and Atlantic coast,” said Deputy State Meteorologist Michelle Palmer. “With these conditions, residents and visitors to the beaches of Florida should check the rip current outlook before entering the water and follow any instructions from safety officials.”

A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water that runs perpendicular to the beach, out into the ocean. These currents may extend 200 to 2,500 feet (61 to 762 meters) lengthwise, but they are typically less than 30 feet (9 meters) wide. Also, rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster and are not always identifiable to the average beachgoer.

When at the beach:
• Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
• Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches.
• Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify hazards. Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
• Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake. Also, never swim alone.
• Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.
• Consider using polarized sunglasses when at the beach. They will help you to spot signatures of rip currents by cutting down glare and reflected sunlight off the ocean’s surface.
• Pay especially close attention to children and persons who are elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.

If caught in a rip current:
• Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
• Never fight against the current.
• Think of a rip current like a treadmill that cannot be turned off, which you need to step to the side of.
• Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
• If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
• If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arm and yelling for help.

If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:
• Get help from a lifeguard.
• If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.
• Throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.
• Yell instructions on how to escape.
• Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.

Follow safe boating practices:
• Have a VHF Marine Band Radio and NOAA Weather Radio on board.
• Check the marine forecast well ahead of time.
• Know the limitations of your boat. If small craft advisories or gale warnings are issued, you should postpone travel.
• Be sure everyone aboard is wearing a life jacket.
• File a float plan at your marina.
• Thunderstorms and weather-related hazards form quickly. Never let these storms cut off your route back to land.

Beachgoers who want to learn more about rip currents can visit www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov. Boaters can go to www.srh.noaa.gov/wml to check the current marine conditions and updated forecasts. For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsert.

Weekend Beachgoers Reminded To Be Aware That a Moderate To High Risk Of Rip Currents May Be Expected Along Florida's Atlantic Coast

2011-03-03T16:10:00.002-05:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are reminding beachgoers along the entire Atlantic Coast to be aware this weekend as a moderate to high risk of rip currents may be expected. Those traveling to the beach should stay out of the water where red flags are flying.

“Though temperatures will be warm and conditions favorable for beach-going along much of the Atlantic Coast this weekend, onshore winds could create a moderate to high risk of rip currents,” said Deputy State Meteorologist Michelle Palmer. “With these conditions, visitors to Florida’s East Coast beaches should check the rip current forecast before entering the water and follow any instructions from safety officials.”

A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water that runs perpendicular to the beach, out into the ocean. These currents may extend 200 to 2,500 feet (61 to 762 meters) lengthwise, but they are typically less than 30 feet (9 meters) wide. Also, rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster and are not always identifiable to the average beachgoer. The greatest safety precaution that can be taken is to recognize the danger of rip currents and always remember to swim at beaches with lifeguards.

When at the beach:
• Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
• Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches.
• Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify hazards. Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
• Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake. Also, never swim alone.
• Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.
• Consider using polarized sunglasses when at the beach. They will help you to spot signatures of rip currents by cutting down glare and reflected sunlight off the ocean’s surface.
• Pay especially close attention to children and persons who are elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.

If caught in a rip current:
• Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
• Never fight against the current.
• Think of a rip current like a treadmill that cannot be turned off, which you need to step to the side of.
• Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
• If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
• If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arm and yelling for help.

If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:
• Get help from a lifeguard.
• If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.
• Throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.
• Yell instructions on how to escape.
• Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.

Follow safe boating practices:
• Have a VHF Marine Band Radio and NOAA Weather Radio on board.
• Check the marine forecast well ahead of time.
• Know the limitations of your boat. If small craft advisories or gale warnings are issued, you should postpone travel.
• Be sure everyone aboard is wearing a life jacket.
• File a float plan at your marina.
• Thunderstorms and weather-related hazards form quickly. Never let these storms cut off your route back to land.

Beachgoers who want to learn more about rip currents can visit www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov. Boaters can go to www.srh.noaa.gov/wml to check the current marine conditions and updated forecasts. For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsert or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/

Did You Know?

2011-03-02T14:10:00.005-05:00

In Florida, wildfires can start any time of the year but peak activity generally begins in January and continues until the rainy season in early to mid-June. A typical year in the Sunshine State may see more than 4,600 fires burn nearly 110,000 acres of land and may have been started by arson, lightning or debris burning.

As a natural part of Florida’s ecosystems, a wildfire often begins unnoticed and can spread quickly, igniting brush, trees and homes. However, it doesn’t have to burn everything in its path. In fact, clearing your property of debris and regular landscaping are important first steps in reducing your risk for wildfire damage. Here are 11 steps you can take to reduce the risk of your home and property becoming fuel for a wildfire.

• Contact your local fire department, health department, or forestry office for information on fire laws in your community.
• Clear leaves and other debris from gutters, eaves, porches and decks. This prevents embers from igniting your home.
• Keep your lawn well-watered and maintained. Dry grass and shrubs are fuel for wildfire.
• Create defensible space by clearing vegetation around your home – at least 30 to 100 feet, depending on your area’s wildfire risk.
• Prune trees so the lowest branches are 6 to 10 feet high.
• Dispose of debris and lawn cuttings quickly to reduce fuel for fire.
• Landscape with carefully placed, slow-growing and less-flammable plants. Your local county extension office can provide plant information.
• Check lawnmowers and farm equipment for properly working spark arresters.
• Properly extinguish fires when cooking outdoors and never leave fires unattended.
• Ensure your home’s street address is clearly marked for firefighters.
• Review and practice your fire escape plan at least twice a year.
• Review Florida Hazard Watch and Firewise Communities for additional information.

For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org and www.KidsGetAPlan.com.

2011-02-28T15:23:00.003-05:00

To help keep Florida’s residents and visitors up-to-date on disaster-related operations, DEM provides a variety of information through several social media accounts, including the official SERT blog, three Twitter accounts and a Facebook page.

Our blog provides day-to-day information on emergency management activities, potential statewide hazards and other preparedness events throughout Florida and the nation.

The Division’s three twitter accounts offer users different perspectives on important emergency management-related topics. DEM’s main account, @FLSERT, gives general program and emergency information, news releases, interesting facts, videos and photos of current events; @FLSERTWeather retransmits significant severe weather alerts and statements issued by the National Weather Service and the National Hurricane Center that are specific to Florida, as well as links to weather-related press releases and Florida hazardous weather awareness information; @FLStateWatch provides a daily feed of breaking news and alerts from the Florida State Watch Office Operations Team for all 67 Florida counties.

Facebook, another popular social media forum, is our most recent outreach service and provides users with another option to readily access DEM and disaster information.

DEM continuously strives to promote public awareness through traditional and emerging media platforms in order to provide clear, concise information to the general public, the emergency management community and news media. As technology continues to emerge, DEM will further explore every avenue available to disseminate emergency management information to the public.

Holiday Beachgoers Reminded To Be Aware That A Moderate Risk Of Rip Currents May Be Expected Along Florida's Atlantic Coast This Weekend

2011-02-18T16:16:00.001-05:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are reminding beachgoers along the entire Atlantic Coast to be aware this holiday weekend as a moderate risk of rip currents may be expected. Those venturing to the beach should remember the warning flag system and try to swim in a lifeguard-protected area.

“Despite sunny skies and warm temperatures, continued onshore winds could cause rough beach conditions along Florida’s Atlantic Coast this Presidents’ Day weekend,” said State Meteorologist Amy Godsey. “We want all residents and visitors to enjoy the Sunshine State’s beautiful beaches safely. By heeding the advice of local officials and lifeguards, beachgoers can reduce their chances of injury or loss of life.”

A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water that runs perpendicular to the beach, out into the ocean. These currents may extend 200 to 2,500 feet (61 to 762 meters) lengthwise, but they are typically less than 30 feet (9 meters) wide. Also, rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster and are not always identifiable to the average beachgoer. The greatest safety precaution that can be taken is to recognize the danger of rip currents and always remember to swim at beaches with lifeguards.

When at the beach:
• Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
• Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches.
• Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify hazards. Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
• Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake. Also, never swim alone.
• Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.
• Consider using polarized sunglasses when at the beach. They will help you to spot signatures of rip currents by cutting down glare and reflected sunlight off the ocean’s surface.
• Pay especially close attention to children and persons who are elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.

If caught in a rip current:
• Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
• Never fight against the current.
• Think of a rip current like a treadmill that cannot be turned off, which you need to step to the side of.
• Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
• If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
• If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arm and yelling for help.

If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:
• Get help from a lifeguard.
• If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.
• Throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.
• Yell instructions on how to escape.
• Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.

Follow safe boating practices:
• Have a VHF Marine Band Radio and NOAA Weather Radio on board.
• Check the marine forecast well ahead of time.
• Know the limitations of your boat. If small craft advisories or gale warnings are issued, you should postpone travel.
• Be sure everyone aboard is wearing a life jacket.
• File a float plan at your marina.
• Thunderstorms and weather-related hazards form quickly. Never let these storms cut off your route back to land.

Beachgoers who want to learn more about rip currents can visit www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov. Boaters can go to www.srh.noaa.gov/wml to check the current marine conditions and updated forecasts. For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsert or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

Travelers Urged To Use Caution As Potentially Dense Fog Affects Florida Statewide Through Monday

2011-02-17T10:39:00.000-05:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are strongly urging residents and visitors to use caution as patches of dense fog may affect many Florida roadways statewide this President’s Day weekend and may persist through Monday morning.

“A moderately humid air mass combined with warmer than normal overnight temperatures and light winds will create conditions that are favorable for dense fog formation across much of Florida early Friday and Saturday morning and likely through the entire holiday weekend,” said Amy Godsey, State Meteorologist. “The dense fog is expected to lift by mid-morning. Until then, motorists traveling in these areas should remain alert and prepared for sudden drops in visibility.”

Should driving conditions be impaired, the National Weather Service will issue a Dense Fog Advisory, which means visibilities may be reduced to less than one-quarter mile. Drivers should avoid traveling in dense fog and follow these safety tips:

• During the morning hours when fog is heavier, slow down and allow for extra space between vehicles.
• Use low-beam headlights and be prepared to stop on short notice.
• Avoid driving distractions such as mobile phones and music devices.
• Monitor local road conditions for possible road closures.
• Use extreme caution and allow extra time to reach your destination.

For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsert.

GOVERNOR SCOTT PROCLAIMS FEBRUARY 13 – 19, 2011 AS HAZARDOUS MATERIALS AWARENESS WEEK IN FLORIDA

2011-02-11T17:15:00.000-05:00

Governor Rick Scott has proclaimed February 13 – 19, 2011 as “Hazardous Materials Awareness Week” in Florida. Joining Governor Scott in commemorating the educational week is the Florida Division of Emergency Management, in partnership with the State Emergency Response Commission (SERC) for Hazardous Materials and the Local Emergency Planning Committees (LEPCs). This year’s theme is: Sheltering in Place.

“The growth of the state’s industrial and energy-producing facilities has made Florida one of the most attractive places to live and work. However, as we enjoy the benefits of these products, we must also be aware of their potential dangers in the unlikely event of an accident,” said Florida Division of Emergency Management Director Bryan W. Koon. “I am grateful for Governor Scott’s declaration of this important week and encourage all Floridians to take this opportunity to learn about the hazardous materials facilities in your area and to get a family disaster plan.”

LEPCs are responsible for preparing regional hazardous materials emergency response plans, managing local hazardous materials inventories and information, and performing outreach functions to increase hazardous materials awareness. In Florida, thousands of first responders and local emergency managers have received free training provided an/or coordinated by the LEPCs over the last several years.

Each year, LEPCs plan hazardous materials public education and training events throughout the week. To find out about these events in your area, visit: http://floridadisaster.org/hazmat/lepc/index.htm.

For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN! please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsert or join our blog at http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

2011 Florida Severe Weather Awareness Week-- Wildfires

2011-02-04T09:00:00.002-05:00

Florida’s Severe Weather Awareness Week takes place from January 31 – February 4, 2011. Severe Weather Awareness Week is an opportunity for Floridians to learn about the various weather hazards that frequently impact the state and how families and businesses can prepare for these natural events.

Each day focuses on a specific weather event. Friday’s topic is temperature extremes and wildfires.

Though Florida is known as the Sunshine State, it could also qualify as the “Hot State.” Each summer, numerous tourists come from all over the world to enjoy the warm weather and sunny beaches, but most are unaware of just how hot it can get in Florida.

Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, the state is always influenced by tropical moisture, especially in the summer. When hot temperatures combine with high humidity, our bodies feel like it is hotter than it really is since the increased moisture in the air limits our body’s ability to cool off through sweating. This is called the Heat Index. When the heat index reaches higher than 105 degrees F, conditions can become dangerous for both people and animals. A person can experience heat cramps, heat exhaustion or heatstroke that may result in death if exposed to these conditions for a long period of time. When the combination of heat and humidity causes the heat index to reach dangerous levels, the National Weather service will issue Heat Advisories and Warnings.

DID YOU KNOW??? The hottest temperature ever recorded in Florida was 109 degrees Fahrenheit on June 29, 1931, in Monticello. Also, in 2010, a heat index of 124 degrees was observed at the Apalachicola Airport.

To help protect yourself against the hot summer heat, make sure to wear lightweight and light-colored clothing. Try to avoid doing or scheduling outdoor events during the hottest parts of the day (usually 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.). Drink plenty of water or other non-alcoholic beverages. Check on the elderly, young children and animals during periods of prolonged heat. Apply sunscreen before exposure to the sun.

Though many people head south to escape the cold temperatures in the winter, it isn’t always warmer in Florida. There have been numerous severe cold outbreaks that have affected the state with below freezing temperatures and strong winds that produce bitterly cold wind chills. Strong winds can also make the air “feel” colder than it really is by removing the heat from our skin that our bodies generate. This is called the Wind Chill. Like high heat, very cold temperatures can also endanger humans. The National Weather Service will issue Wind Chill Advisories/ Watches/Warnings, Freeze Watches/ Warnings, hard freeze watches/warnings, and Frost Advisories if cold weather will threaten an area.

DID YOU KNOW??? The coldest temperature recorded in Florida was minus 2 degrees Fahrenheit in Tallahassee on February 13, 1899.

Floridians should remember the "Five P's" of cold weather safety. The “5 P’s” are: Protecting People, Protecting Plants, Protecting Pets, Protect Exposed Pipes, and Practice Fire Safety.

To prepare yourself from the bitter cold, stay indoors and use a safe heating source. Make sure to use space heaters according to their instructions, and be attentive to open flames. Do not use charcoal or other fuel-burning devices, such as grills that produce carbon monoxide. When outdoors, stay dry and in wind protected areas and wear multiple layers of loose-fitting, warm clothing.

Also, be aware of sensitive plants and animals. Bring in potted plants and drape a blanket, sheet or tarp over plants in the ground. Pets are just as susceptible to the cold as people are. Bring all domesticated pets indoors or at least provide shelter for animals with a closed door to keep out the wind. Make sure the shelter is clean, dry, and well insulated with straw, wood shavings or a blanket. Pet stores sell heated bowls to resist water freezing. Be sure to have extra food as outdoor animals require more calories in the winter to generate energy to ward off the cold. Horses and other livestock need a windbreak, cover, warm bedding, abundant high-quality feed, and fresh water, too.

Not only should practicing fire safety be considered when trying to heat your home during the winter, but residents and visitors should practice fire safety year round since wildfire season in Florida is considered to be 12 months long. While wildfires can start at any time of the year, the state sees a peak of activity during the early part of the year – beginning in January and continuing until the onset of more frequent rain during the wet season, usually in early to mid-June. Fire Weather Watches and Red Flag Warnings are issued by the National Weather Service to alert people and land managers to potentially hazardous burning conditions that may add to wildfire danger and lead to the loss of control of a fire.

DID YOU KNOW??? A typical year in Florida will see over 4,600 fires burn nearly 110,000 acres of land. While lightning is responsible for many fires, most wildfires are started by humans – the most common causes of human-started fires are arson and escaped burns of debris.

In 2010, Florida saw over 2,500 wildfires burn nearly 28,000 acres through the end of November. This is a particularly low amount of wildfire activity compared to the past 30 years. Part of this reason is an El Niño event that was occurring during the early part of 2010. An El Niño event occurs when there is warmer than normal water in the Central and Eastern tropical Pacific Ocean.

Winter El Niño events are frequently associated with cooler and wetter conditions in Florida, which helps to suppress wildfire activity. In contrast to El Niño events, there are also events known as La Niña, in which the water in the same region of the tropical Pacific is abnormally cool. La Niña events are generally associated with warmer and drier winters in Florida.

DID YOU KNOW??? An increased amount of wildfire activity is often the result of La Niña events. In fact, Florida’s most severe bouts with wildfires occurred during La Niña events or during a quick transition to La Niña.

To help control the spread of wildfires, residents across Florida are urged to be “Firewise”. The Firewise program is designed to help homeowners reduce the threat of wildfire around their homes. Homeowners can make their yards fire resistant by planting specific types of vegetation and landscaping in a way that fire will not threaten their homes. Information and tips on this program can be found at www.firewise.org.

More information on temperature hazards and wildfires and what you can do to protect yourself and others can be found at http://www.weather.gov/om/heat/index.shtml, http://www.fl-dof.com/wildfire/ and www.FloridaDisaster.org.

For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsert or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

2011 FLORIDA SEVERE WEATHER AWARENESS WEEK - HURRICANES

2011-02-03T08:53:00.001-05:00

Florida’s Severe Weather Awareness Week takes place from January 31 – February 4, 2011. Severe Weather Awareness Week is an opportunity for Floridians to learn about the various weather hazards that frequently impact the state and how families and businesses can prepare for these natural events.

Each day focuses on a specific weather event. Thursday’s focus is on hurricanes and flooding.

The most feared weather phenomenon throughout Florida during the summer and early fall is the tropical cyclone. Close to the tropics and surrounded on three sides by warm water, Florida is particularly vulnerable to these systems as they develop and move generally westward across the Atlantic Ocean, Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean Sea.

Florida has a long history of hurricanes. Records indicate that approximately 110 hurricanes and almost 200 tropical storms have impacted the state since 1851 with many more cited in history books before records were kept.

DID YOU KNOW??? No other state in the country has more hurricane landfalls per year on average than Florida does. Nearly 40% of all hurricanes that strike the United States make landfall in Florida.

The unique location of Florida in the sub-tropics makes it vulnerable to tropical storms and hurricanes and the relatively flat terrain can also make it susceptible to flooding. Florida is surrounded by very warm waters, which breed and support hurricanes: the Atlantic Ocean to the east, the Gulf of Mexico to the west and the Caribbean Sea well to the south.

The North Atlantic Ocean hurricane season officially begins on June 1st and continues through November 30th. However, tropical systems can still from outside of hurricane season as early as May and as late as December. Although the number of tropical storms and hurricanes typically peaks during August and September, it is important to remember that Florida can be impacted by tropical weather systems any time during the six-month-long season. Residents and visitors need to plan ahead and remain ready for possible hurricane impacts.

The 2010 hurricane season was record-breaking in several ways. 2010 recorded 19 named storms, putting it in third place for most named storms in a season, right behind 1933 and 2005. Luckily, only one out of the 19 named storms to form in 2010 made landfall in the United States. For the fifth year in a row, Florida escaped major impacts from hurricanes. Nevertheless, Florida was the only state to receive a direct landfall from a named storm last year when Tropical Storm Bonnie moved inland in South Florida on July 23, 2010.

Despite the inactivity in the state over the past few years, we know that it only takes one storm to affect our state for long lasting impacts to be felt. The 1992 Hurricane Season serves as a reminder of this fact, as six tropical cyclones formed (a normal year has eleven), but one storm intensified into a major hurricane (Andrew) and produced widespread devastation as it made landfall near Miami and travelled across the South Florida Peninsula. This is why residents and visitors need to always be prepared for hurricanes, even if below normal hurricane activity is forecast.

DID YOU KNOW??? Hurricane Andrew remains one of only three hurricanes to make landfall at Category 5 intensity in the United States (in addition to the 1935 Labor Day Hurricane which crossed the Florida Keys and Hurricane Camille which struck Mississippi in 1969.)

Only a small percentage of the numerous low pressure systems that move across the warm Atlantic waters during the summer are able to take advantage of favorable conditions to become more organized. A tropical storm will have sustained winds of 39-73 mph. When a storm’s maximum sustained winds reach 74 mph, it is considered a hurricane, and when sustained wind speeds reach 111 mph, it is considered a major hurricane. Meteorologists use the Saffir-Simpson Scale to rate the strength of a hurricane based on wind speed.

When a tropical system approaches the state, The National Hurricane Center will issue watches and warnings. Do you know the difference between a watch and warning? Watches are issued 48 hours in advance of the time dangerous winds are possible within the specified area. Warnings are issued 36 hours prior to the time when damaging winds are expected. A watch should trigger your family’s disaster plan, and protective measures should be initiated. Once a warning has been issued, your family should be in the process of completing protective actions and deciding the safest location to be during the storm.

DID YOU KNOW??? In the last 150 years, all of Florida’s coastal counties have been impacted by at least one hurricane.

Your main protection against hurricanes is to be prepared and have a plan. Hurricane force winds can easily destroy poorly constructed buildings and mobile homes. A hurricane plan doesn’t have to be anything extremely complicated, but should at least consist of the following two things. First, determine whether you live in an evacuation zone. This information can be obtained from your local emergency management office. If you live in an evacuation zone, know when and where you will be going to pass the storm. Have a list of emergency telephone numbers handy. Second, stock up on non-perishable supplies, batteries for electronic devices such as your NOAA Alert Radio, and have a disaster supply kit ready with enough provisions to last 3 to 5 days. To minimize wind damage, asses your property to ensure that landscaping and tress do not become a wind hazard.

While hurricanes are known and feared for their ferocious winds, historically it is the water that causes most of the deaths in hurricanes. About 90% of all hurricane fatalities occur from drowning in either storm surge or freshwater flooding.

The widespread flooding caused by Tropical Storm Fay in 2008 serves as a reminder that tropical storms can cause as much or greater devastation than hurricanes with freshwater flooding.

Even outside of tropical systems, flooding is a serious concern in Florida since it can happen anywhere and at any time. Effects from flooding can be localized, impacting just a few streets in a neighborhood or community, or very large, affecting multiple cities, counties and even whole states. Flooding is caused by the amount of rainfall (meteorology) and what happens to the rain after it hits the ground (hydrology).

As our state’s population increases, buildings and pavement replace the natural land. This creates more water runoff and can increase flood problems. Most deaths due to flooding in the United States are due to people driving their cars into flooded areas. Once a vehicle begins to float, the situation for the driver and passengers becomes dangerous and often deadly.

DID YOU KNOW??? Just 6 inches of fast-moving floodwater can knock you off your feet and 2 feet of water can sweep an SUV off a road.

Residents should be aware of their location with respect to flood-prone areas and know evacuation routes. People are also urged to be extremely cautious when driving in heavy rains, especially when water covers the road. Because it is difficult to determine the depth of water or the condition of the road under the water, if you come to a flooded road, remember the phrase “Turn Around, Don’t Drown”.

Meteorologists at the Southeast River Forecast Center and local National Weather Service offices all watch the weather and use satellite pictures, Doppler radar and computer models to try to warn people well in advance of the flooding, so they can save lives and property. Flood Watches and Warnings, along with Flash Flood Watches and warning are issued for a specific area when flooding conditions are likely or are already occurring.

National Flood Awareness Week is March 14-18, 2011. National Hurricane Preparedness Week is May 22-28, 2011. More information about hurricanes and flooding and what you can do to protect yourself and others can be found at www.nhc.noaa.gov, http://www.weather.gov/floodsafety/ or www.FloridaDisaster.org.

Friday’s tropic will be on temperatures extremes and wildfires.

2011 FLORIDA SEVERE WEATHER AWARENESS WEEK - TORNADOES AND THUNDERSTORMS

2011-02-02T08:45:00.002-05:00

Florida’s Severe Weather Awareness Week takes place from January 31 – February 4, 2011. Severe Weather Awareness Week is an opportunity for Floridians to learn about the various weather hazards that frequently impact the state and how families and businesses can prepare for these natural events.

Each day focuses on a specific weather event. Wednesday’s focus is on thunderstorms and tornadoes.

Thunderstorms occur frequently across Florida. In fact, Florida has the greatest number of thunderstorms in the United States. Florida averages over 70 thunderstorm days per year with much of the Gulf coast experiencing over 80 and even 100 days a year. Hazards within thunderstorms include lightning, hail, gusty winds, heavy rain that may cause flooding, and tornadoes.

DID YOU KNOW??? There are about 100,000 thunderstorms each year in the United States and about one out of every ten storms causes damage.

One of the reasons Florida has so many thunderstorms is that many of the ingredients needed to create thunderstorms can be found here almost every day. Three things are needed in the atmosphere for thunderstorms to develop and grow: the atmosphere needs to be moist, unstable, and have a source of lift. Since Florida is surrounded by water, not to mention the many inland lakes, rivers and swamps, there are plenty of sources of water vapor to feed thunderstorms.

When the weather conditions are right for thunderstorm updrafts to form, meteorologists call the atmosphere “unstable”. Florida receives plenty of sunlight which warms the air near the ground and causes unstable air. All thunderstorms have an updraft, where air rises rapidly to seven to 10 miles above the ground. This causes the moisture to turn into liquid water or ice and that forms clouds and raindrops and forms the tall, towering clouds that we can easily distinguish as “thunderstorm clouds.” However, these clouds cannot grow on their own, in order for an unstable atmosphere to produce the updrafts needed for thunderstorms, a little boost is needed to get the updraft started. Meteorologists call these boosts “lift”.

Sources of lift can be an approaching frontal system or a sea breeze boundary forming during a typical summer afternoon, and Florida has plenty of both during the year.

Thunderstorms come in different forms. Sometimes a storm has only one thunderstorm cloud and sometimes thunderstorms have a family of clouds, or cells, associated with them. Also, thunderstorms may go on for a very long time or be as brief as a few minutes.
Your local National Weather Service office has meteorologists and technicians working every hour of the day and every day of the year to issue warnings when thunderstorms become severe and these warnings give people time to move to a place of safety.

DO YOU KNOW THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A WATCH AND A WARNING? A Severe Thunderstorm Warning means thunderstorms capable of causing significant damage, containing winds of 58 mph or greater and quarter-size hail or larger has been indicated by radar. A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means that conditions are favorable for severe storms to develop. There is no immediate danger when a watch is issued, but you should keep a close eye on the weather.

When a severe thunderstorm threatens your location, go to a small interior room on the lowest floor of your building and stay away from windows. If time permits, move vehicles into garages or carports to prevent hail or wind damage. In vehicles, avoid driving into severe storms. Pull over and wait for the storm to pass.
One of the most dangerous features a severe thunderstorm can produce is a tornado. Tornadoes are not usually associated with the Sunshine State, but in the past 20 years, Florida had more reported tornadoes and more tornado-related deaths than Oklahoma, Nebraska or Iowa. Officially, Florida ranks third nationally in tornado reports (trailing only Texas and Kansas) and fourth in tornado deaths since 1990.

A tornado is a violent column of rotating air that comes down from a thunderstorm to reach the ground. Florida tornadoes come in all shapes and sizes, and occur year-round. Tornadoes usually last only a few minutes, but they can cause significant damage as they travel along the ground. Some tornadoes can travel for many dozens of miles while other tornadoes may appear to skip above the ground for a few moments. If a funnel cloud is not touching the ground, it is NOT a tornado.

Tornadoes can develop within very strong thunderstorms along sea breeze boundaries or squall lines ahead of frontal systems, but can also occur near the edge of tropical cyclones in rainbands which can extend 100 or more miles from the center of the tropical system. Tornadoes can also form over the water, which are called waterspouts. Most of these are weak, but waterspouts that reach the shore can cause the same damage as a tornado. Boaters and those on the beach need to quickly move away from them as they can easily flip over a vessel. If these move onshore, they are classified as tornadoes.

DID YOU KNOW??? The Florida Keys are widely referred to as the “waterspout capital of the world.” It is estimated that more than 400 waterspouts occur each year along the Florida Keys alone, with hundreds also reported along other areas of the Florida coast.

Frontal system tornadoes usually occur in the winter and spring months, developing along squall lines preceding cold fronts. These storms often include high amounts of wind shear, and thus tend to be the most damaging. Sea breeze boundary tornadoes are the most common, occurring mostly during the late spring and summer. Hurricane season also brings a distinct risk of tornadoes to the Sunshine State, as nearly every tropical cyclone can produce tornadoes as it impacts our state. Also, history shows that tornadoes are just as likely to form after midnight as they do during the afternoon and early evening. This is why it is important to be prepared as we enter into the more active severe weather season.

DID YOU KNOW??? 100 of the 152 tornado-related deaths in Florida since 1950 occurred between 9:00 pm and 7:00 am, with 113 of the 152 total deaths occurring in February, March and April.

The relatively small and short-lived nature of most tornadoes makes it difficult to give advance warning. The National Weather Service uses tools and volunteers to watch for severe weather. Skywarn Severe Weather Spotters are volunteers who report tornadoes to the National Weather Service and the local National Weather Service office will issue a tornado warning when a tornado is either seen by a severe weather spotter or indicated by Doppler radar. In many cases, only a few minutes of warning are given between the time a warning is issued and the eventual tornado touchdown. Nevertheless, even a few minutes of warning can make the difference between life and death. This is why having a NOAA weather radio is a critical component to the warning system as the radio will alert you whenever the National Weather Service issues a warning. Having a NOAA All-Hazards Weather Radio alert you of an oncoming tornado, especially in the middle of the night, has saved lives.

DID YOU KNOW??? Meteorologists first look at the tornado damage and then estimate the wind speed that would have been needed to cause the damage. National Weather Service meteorologists use the Enhanced Fujita Scale, or EF Scale, to rate the strength of tornadoes based on the damages a storm produces.

If a tornado struck tomorrow would you be prepared? Would you know what actions to take? In Florida, tornadoes strike all too often. Whether in homes, schools or businesses, everyone should have a plan in place for severe weather.

The National Weather Service and the Florida Division of Emergency Management will conduct a statewide tornado drill on Wednesday, February 2nd, at 10:10am EST/9:10am CST. Floridians are asked to consider themselves under a tornado watch during the morning. A Tornado watch means that you should closely monitor the weather and be prepared to go to a safe place in the event of a tornado warning. At 10:10am EST/9:10am CST, the National Weather Service will issue a Drill Tornado Warning. This warning will be broadcast on NOAA weather as a “Routine Weekly Test” message. The drill will conclude around 10:30 am EST.

A Tornado Warning means a tornado has been indicated by radar or spotted on the ground. A Tornado Watch means that conditions are favorable for tornadoes to develop.

If a Tornado Warning is issued for your area, you and your family should seek shelter immediately! Seek shelter on the lowest floor in an interior hallway, closet or small room of your home or office. The best safety advice is to get as many walls between you and the outside as possible. Stay away from windows and doors and use pillows to cover your head. Leave mobile homes and find a stronger building or house. If caught outdoors or on the road your options are not ideal, but you can still take action to survive. When outside, try to seek shelter in a nearby structure. If this is not possible, try to get as low as possible, such as a creek bed or ditch, and cover your head. Do not seek shelter under bridges and do not try to outrun a tornado.

More information about thunderstorm and tornado hazards and what you can do to protect yourself and others can be found at www.nssl.noaa.gov/edu/safety/tornadoguide.html and http://www.floridadisaster.org/.

Thursday’s topics will be on hurricanes and flooding.

For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsert or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

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FLORIDA DIVISION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT KICKS OFF SEVERE WEATHER AWARENESS WEEK AT DOWNTOWN DISNEY

2011-02-01T15:33:00.008-05:00

(Contest Winners Left to Right: Joey Engelman, Christopher Taylor, Alfonso Duran, Professor Nimbus Tinkermeister, Sean Reagan, Paul Capone, Garret Johnson, Miranda Shellenbarger)

Lake Buena Vista – Sunny weather greeted residents and visitors at the kickoff for Severe Weather Awareness Week at Downtown Disney on Saturday, January 29, 2011. The Florida Division of Emergency Management partnered with Radio Disney to host a two-hour street party highlighting Florida Severe Weather Awareness Week, which runs from January 31 – February 4, 2011. The week is intended to educate Florida’s residents and visitors on the weather hazards that affect the Sunshine State, and how to be prepared for them. State Meteorologist Amy Godsey joined KidsGetAPlan.com character Professor Nimbus Tinkermeister on stage, to perform weather experiments, games, and trivia designed to teach the audience about weather and preparedness.

The winners of the statewide Poster and Public Service Announcement (PSA) video contests were also in attendance and received awards on stage.

Poster and Public Service Announcement Contests
The Division invited students across the state to participate in a contest to produce preparedness messages that will become part of the Division’s 2011 public awareness campaign.

Miranda Shellenbarger, a 5th grader at Eastside High School in Brooksville, was the poster winner for her entry.

Garret Johnson and Sean Reagan of Diplomat Middle School in Cape Coral were the middle school winners of the PSA video contest, entering a project entitled “Generate Some Smarts!”

Paul Capone, Alfonso Duran, Christopher Taylor and Joey Engelman from Pembroke Pines Charter High School in Pembroke Pines won the high school PSA video contest, with the winning message of “Prepare Early!” Both middle and high school winners will work with a professional production team to reproduce their PSA’s for broadcast as part of the Division’s 2011 public awareness campaign. To view the winning public service announcements, visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org/SWAW/2011/2011contestwinners.html.

The Florida Division of Emergency Management’s website, www.FloridaDisaster.org, will post videos dedicated to each hazard, each day of Severe Weather Awareness Week. The videos describe the types of natural hazards that occur in Florida and what residents and visitors can do to protect their families, homes and businesses from damage.

2011 Severe Weather Awareness Week

Monday, January 31 - Lightning
Tuesday, February 1 - Rip Currents and Marine Hazards
Wednesday, February 2 - Tornadoes and Thunderstorms
Thursday, February 3 - Hurricanes and Flooding
Friday, February 4 - Temperature Extremes and Wildfires

FLORIDA SEVERE WEATHER AWARENESS WEEK - RIP CURRENTS

2011-02-01T14:57:00.002-05:00

Florida’s Severe Weather Awareness Week takes place from
January 31-February 4, 2011. Severe Weather Awareness Week is an opportunity for Floridians to learn about the various weather hazards that frequently impact the state and how families and businesses can prepare for these natural events.

Each day focuses on a specific weather event. Tuesday’s focus is on marine hazards and rip currents.

Although tropical cyclones, severe thunderstorms and tornadoes are often the first that come to mind when thinking of “most dangerous weather phenomenon in Florida”, there is another weather-related hazard that ranks as the deadliest. Florida’s beaches attract millions of residents and tourists each year. Florida’s beaches attract millions of residents and tourists each year. However, while there may be beautiful weather in the sky, there are unseen dangers in the waters.

Rip currents, sometimes erroneously referred to as rip tides or undertows, occur naturally and affect many Florida beaches year-round. On average, 10 people die in Florida each year after getting caught in rip currents. Since 1989, rip currents have accounted for more than 350 drownings along Florida’s Gulf and Atlantic beaches. In fact, rip currents kill more people in Florida in an average year than hurricanes, tornadoes and lightning. In 2010, 24 people lost their lives due to rip currents, many of these drowning incidents occur on days when the weather is pleasant, with a nice breeze blowing onshore. This catches beachgoers by surprise since fair weather is usually associated with pleasant ocean conditions.

DID YOU KNOW??? Rip currents are much more localized than rip tides and undertows and are typically shorter in duration than an incoming or outgoing astronomical tide. It is important to understand that rip currents do not pull people under the water; instead they carry people out towards deeper water.

A rip current is a strong channel of water moving away from the shore at beaches. Rip currents are part of the natural near-shore ocean circulation and are quite common, occurring at many beaches every day on both the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of Florida. Rip currents typically form along the beach at breaks in the nearshore underwater sandbar, but they also form near structures such as jetties and piers. Rip currents form when water, piled against the shore, begins to return to deeper water. Typically, onshore winds and waves push water over the sandbar, allowing excess water to collect between the bar and the beach. Eventually, this excess water starts to return seaward through low spots in the sandbar, “ripping” an opening. While rip currents can happen any day of the year, weather or ocean conditions can cause rip currents to be stronger and more frequent on some days more than on others.

DID YOU KNOW??? You can sometimes see the signs that show a rip current is present. A visible channel of churning, choppy water; a narrow channel where there is a difference in water color; a line of seaward moving foam; an offshore area of murky water are all indicators of possible rip currents.

Rip currents are dangerous because they can pull unprepared swimmers away from shore and into deeper offshore waters. They become especially dangerous when swimmers panic and struggle against the current while being pulled farther and farther away from the beach. Contrary to popular belief, rip currents do not pull a swimmer under the water. The force of a rip current is too strong for even the strongest of swimmers, and attempts to swim directly back toward shore, especially for the panicked and tired swimmer, can be fatal.

DID YOU KNOW??? Rip currents can travel as fast as five mph, or about eight feet per second, which is faster than an Olympic swimmer can swim!

Florida’s Atlantic and Gulf coasts also attract plenty of boaters year-round and Florida leads the nation with nearly one million registered boats. Before venturing out on the water, it is important for boaters to check on the weather. What may seem like a tranquil start to the day can quickly turn violent with hazards such as severe thunderstorms, strong winds, rough seas, lightning and waterspouts.

One way to be sure you are safe while boating is to check the marine forecasts issued by the local National Weather Service Offices when planning your voyage. Stay in port if thunderstorms are expected. If you decide to venture out into the open waters, remember that lightning presents the greatest danger to boaters. Be prepared to seek safe shelter anytime lightning is seen or thunder is heard. Never let thunderstorms cut off your route back to land.

If a thunderstorm or waterspout threatens, it is best to seek safe harbor immediately. If you are unable to get back to the dock, be sure everyone aboard is wearing a life jacket, as gusty thunderstorm winds or waterspouts can quickly overturn small boats. If lightning is nearby, get low or head below deck, and stay away from masts and ungrounded metal objects. If caught near a waterspout, your best course of evasive action is to move at a 90 degree angle from its apparent movement, then seek safe harbor, if possible.

Knowing what kind of weather to expect is one of the keys to staying safe during your boating adventure. There are a few things that you can do to protect yourself from the dangers of rip currents and marine hazards. Before you leave, check the latest National Weather Service forecast for local beach and boating conditions. National Weather Service offices around Florida issue a surf zone forecast and coastal waters forecasts each day, which includes the expected rip current risk and marine conditions. These forecasts should be your primary tools for planning a safe day on the water.

At the beach, look for the nearest lifeguards and check with them about existing water conditions. If you're going to a beach with no lifeguard on duty, look for warning flags or signs. Since 2006, approximately 80% of all rip current-related drowning incidents in Florida occurred at unguarded beaches.

If you find yourself caught in a rip current, don’t panic and don’t fight the current. Swim in a direction parallel to the shoreline either toward your left or right. Just remembering the simple phrase “Don’t fight...Swim left or right” could save your life. When free of the current, swim at an angle back toward shore.

National Safe Boating Week is May 21-27, 2011. Rip Current Safety Awareness Week is June 5-11, 2011. More information on rip currents and marine hazards and what you can do to protect yourself and others can be found at www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov and www.FloridaDisaster.org.

Wednesday’s topic will be on tornadoes and severe thunderstorms.

For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsert or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

2011 FLORIDA SEVERE WEATHER AWARENESS WEEK - LIGHTNING

2011-02-01T13:52:00.006-05:00

Florida’s Severe Weather Awareness Week takes place from
January 31 – February 4, 2011. Severe Weather Awareness Week is an opportunity for Floridians to learn about the various weather hazards that frequently impact the state and how families and businesses can prepare for these natural events.

Each day focuses on a specific weather event. Monday’s focus is on lightning.

Lightning is one of nature’s deadliest and most unpredictable weather phenomena. Meteorologists can forecast the general conditions that cause lightning but no one can forecast the exact location or time of the next strike of lightning.

All thunderstorms contain lightning which can strike a person, tree or an object either on the ground or in the air. Lightning is among the top weather-related killers in the United States, striking the ground about 25 million times each year and causing more injury and death than tornadoes. Lightning is often seen as an underrated killer, because it does not generate as much attention compared to other forms of hazardous weather and usually only claims one or two victims at a time. On average, lightning kills nearly 60 people each year in the United States. Florida averages seven fatalities per year due to lightning, with many more injuries. Most people that are struck by lightning are not killed, but suffer significant injuries.

The 2011 Florida Severe Weather Awareness Week is a perfect time to note that our state, out of all 50 states, is the lightning capital of the country. With an average of 1.4 million cloud- to-ground lightning strikes each year, no other state experiences more lightning strikes than Florida. Why does Florida have this distinction? Florida’s geography plays a large role, especially during the summer. Some of the elements that make Florida such a great place to live, such as sunshine and the ocean, play important roles in the development of thunderstorms. Because thunderstorm activity peaks in the summer, when most people are enjoying the warm weather, Florida often has the greatest number of lightning fatalities each year in the United States.

DID YOU KNOW??? Lightning is not just confined to thunderstorms. It can even be generated by the ash cloud from an erupting volcano. Lightning is also not just confined to the Earth; lightning has been observed on Jupiter and Venus.

One characteristic that makes lightning so dangerous is its extensive range. Lightning has the ability to strike up to 10 miles away from the thunderstorm core, making it the first storm hazard to arrive and the last to leave, so while it may not be raining at your location, lightning can still reach you.
The other characteristic that makes lightning so dangerous is its power and speed. The average lightning bolt carries 100 million volts of electrical potential.

DID YOU KNOW??? Contrary to belief, lightning CAN strike the same place twice and rubber shoes or tires DO NOT protect you from lightning strikes.

Thunder is a product of lightning. As lighting moves between the ground and thunderstorm, the air around the flash heats rapidly, to temperatures as high as 50,000°F – a temperature hotter than the surface of the sun. This sudden heating creates expansion of the air around the lightning bolt at speeds greater than the speed of sound. The expanding air breaks the sound barrier resulting in the explosive sound we know as thunder. Thunder is really just another form of a sonic boom. Because sound travels much slower than light, thunder is always heard after a flash of lightning.

Thunder travels at the speed of sound, which is roughly one mile every five seconds. You can determine how far away a flash of lightning is by counting the number of seconds that pass after observing a lightning bolt. For every five seconds that elapse, the lightning is one mile away. For example, if it takes 15 seconds for the thunder to reach you, then the lightning strike occurred about three miles away.

A good rule of thumb to remember is that if you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning. Being observant when outside is your first line of defense with lightning. A darkening cloud building high in the sky is often the first sign that lightning could occur.

A "Bolt from the Blue" lightning strike is a flash which travels a relatively large distance in clear air away from the parent thunderstorm and then strikes the ground. These lightning flashes have been documented more than 25 miles away from the thunderstorm cloud. These events can be especially dangerous, as they appear to come from “clear blue sky.” The key to remaining safe from a lightning strike is to keep an eye to the sky and watch for darkening skies on the horizon along with distant rumbles of thunder.

Nearly half of all lightning deaths occur in open areas. Many people are struck when they go under a tree to keep dry during a storm. Outdoor water activities such as swimming, boating and fishing are equally as dangerous during lightning storms. Therefore, when thunderstorms are approaching, avoid outdoor activities as if your life depends on it – because it does!

The main tip to remember regarding lightning safety is: being outside is never safe during a thunderstorm!

At the first sign of lightning or sound of thunder, you should immediately head inside an enclosed structure and remain away from windows. Even while inside, it is important to stay away from windows and not use any corded electrical devices. Lightning can easily travel along phone lines or through other electrical devices and strike you while inside a building. If you can’t make it inside when a thunderstorm approaches, the most dangerous place to be is in an open area, like an athletic field or golf course.

Equally as dangerous is being caught over the open water of a lake or ocean when a thunderstorm is in the area. This is because lightning will tend to strike the tallest object in the area. This also why standing under tall trees is very dangerous. When you can’t make it to an enclosed building, your next best course of action is to get into a vehicle with a hard-topped roof.

Although the National Weather Service does not issue specific lightning warnings, products such as the Hazardous Weather Outlook can indicate the threat levels for lightning in your area on any given day. When a storm producing excessive lightning is observed or imminent, a Special Weather Statement or Significant Weather Advisory is issued to alert of its locations. Checking these products before venturing outside can help make the difference between life and death.

NWS Mobile Daily Graphical Hazards
NWS Tallahassee Daily Graphical Hazards
NWS Jacksonville Daily Hazards
NWS Melbourne Daily Graphical Hazards
NWS Tampa Daily Graphical Hazards
NWS Miami Daily Graphical Hazards
NWS Key West Daily Hazards

Lightning Safety Awareness Week is June 19-25, 2011 and more information about lightning hazards and what you can do to protect yourself and others can be found at http://www.lightningsafety.noaa.gov/ and http://www.floridadisaster.org/.
Tuesday’s focus will be on marine hazards and rip currents.
For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: http://www.floridadisaster.org/. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsert or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

FLORIDA DIVISION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ANNOUNCES 2011 SEVERE WEATHER AWARENESS WEEK POSTER AND VIDEO CONTEST WINNERS

2011-01-30T09:59:00.006-05:00

As part of the annual Severe Weather Awareness Week public preparedness campaign, Florida emergency management officials today joined Radio Disney to announce the winners of the annual poster and video public service announcement contests at a kickoff event at Downtown Disney in Lake Buena Vista.

“Severe Weather Awareness Week is designed to educate our residents and visitors about the potential weather hazards that affect the Sunshine State,” said David Halstead, director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management. “I applaud this year’s poster and public service announcement contest winners for their creativity in providing potentially lifesaving disaster preparedness information about these weather hazards.”

More than 800 students statewide participated in the poster and video public service announcement contests, through a partnership with the American Red Cross.

Poster Contest Winners:
1st Place: Miranda Shellenbarger
5th Grade
Eastside Elementary School, Brooksville, Florida

2nd Place: Kaitlyn Boncaro
5th Grade
Forest Lake Elementary School, Deltona, Florida

3rd Place: Virginia Villarreal
5th Grade
Westside Elementary School, Clewiston, Florida

Video PSA Contest Winners:
Middle School Category: Sean Reagan and Garret Johnson
Diplomat Middle School
Cape Coral, Florida

High School Category: Joey Engelman, Christopher Taylor,
Paul Capone, Alfonso Duran
Pembroke Pines Charter High School
Pembroke Pines, Florida

Additional Severe Weather Awareness Week sponsors include the Florida Association of Broadcasters, the Florida Emergency Preparedness Association, the Florida Outdoor Advertising Association, I.D.E.A.S, and the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association.

To learn more about Severe Weather Awareness Week, visit www.FloridaDisaster.org/SWAW/2011. For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsert or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

SOUTHEAST WINDS BRING A HIGH RISK OF DANGEROUS RIP CURRENTS FOR GULF COAST AND SOUTHEASTERN ATLANTIC BEACHES TODAY

2011-01-25T15:23:00.001-05:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging beachgoers along the Gulf and southeastern Atlantic coasts to use extreme caution as a high risk of rip currents is expected today. The cold, gusty conditions will bring a high risk of dangerous rip currents to coastal counties from Escambia to Dixie County, Citrus to Monroe County, and Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade counties as well.

“The same system that is bringing the threat of severe weather to the state will also cause rough waves and rip currents along the Florida Gulf Coast and southeastern Atlantic coast,” said State Meteorologist Amy Godsey. “With these conditions, residents and visitors to the beaches of Florida should check the rip current outlook before entering the water and follow any instructions from safety officials.”

A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water that runs perpendicular to the beach, out into the ocean. These currents may extend 200 to 2,500 feet (61 to 762 meters) lengthwise, but they are typically less than 30 feet (9 meters) wide. Also, rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster and are not always identifiable to the average beachgoer.

In Florida, rip currents kill more people annually than thunderstorms, hurricanes and tornadoes combined. They are the number-one concern for beach lifeguards. According to the United States Lifesaving Association, 80 percent of surf beach rescues are attributed to rip currents. The greatest safety precaution that can be taken is to recognize the danger of rip currents and always remember to swim at beaches with lifeguards.

When at the beach:
• Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
• Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches.
• Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify hazards. Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
• Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake. Also, never swim alone.
• Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.
• Consider using polarized sunglasses when at the beach. They will help you to spot signatures of rip currents by cutting down glare and reflected sunlight off the ocean’s surface.
• Pay especially close attention to children and persons who are elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.

If caught in a rip current:
• Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
• Never fight against the current.
• Think of a rip current like a treadmill that cannot be turned off, which you need to step to the side of.
• Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
• If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
• If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arm and yelling for help.

If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:
• Get help from a lifeguard.
• If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.
• Throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.
• Yell instructions on how to escape.
• Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.

Follow safe boating practices:
• Have a VHF Marine Band Radio and NOAA Weather Radio on board.
• Check the marine forecast well ahead of time.
• Know the limitations of your boat. If small craft advisories or gale warnings are issued, you should postpone travel.
• Be sure everyone aboard is wearing a life jacket.
• File a float plan at your marina.
• Thunderstorms and weather-related hazards form quickly. Never let these storms cut off your route back to land.

Beachgoers who want to learn more about rip currents can visit www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov. Boaters can go to www.srh.noaa.gov/wml to check the current marine conditions and updated forecasts. For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsert or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

FLORIDA PENINSULA RESIDENTS URGED TO STAY ALERT AS STORM SYSTEM BRINGS POTENTIAL FOR SEVERE WEATHER TONIGHT

2011-01-25T14:13:00.000-05:00

State and local emergency management officials are urging residents and visitors along the Florida Peninsula to stay alert and exercise caution as a potentially severe storm system moves east into the state today and tonight.

“The Storm Prediction Center has placed all of the Florida Peninsula and far eastern Florida Big Bend in an area for an enhanced risk of severe storms from Tuesday afternoon through early Wednesday morning,” said State Meteorologist Amy Godsey. “This severe weather threat will persist overnight and we strongly encourage residents and visitors across the region to monitor this weather system and to be prepared to act if warnings are issued.”

This storm system will have the potential to produce tornadoes, damaging wind gusts and hail, especially during the overnight hours, along with one to three inches of rain. Residents and visitors to the state should monitor local media outlets and ensure that their NOAA All-Hazards Weather Radio alert settings are turned on.

For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsert or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

GOVERNOR SCOTT AND LT. GOV CARROLL VISIT AND TOUR STATE EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTER

2011-01-20T11:43:00.002-05:00

Governor Rick Scott and Lt. Governor Jennifer Carroll made their first official visit to the State Emergency Operations Center last week, and received an hour-long briefing on the facility’s capabilities and the role of the State Emergency Response Team during disasters.

Director David Halstead and Major General Emmett Titshaw, the Adjutant General of the Florida National Guard, gave the operations briefing which included an overview of Florida's highly developed response network. This network is composed of hundreds of emergency management partners at the local, state and federal level to ensure a rapid and effective response in the event of a disaster.

Governor Scott commended both Director Halstead and Maj. General Titshaw for their outstanding service to the state, and acknowledged the Division of Emergency Management’s "international reputation" for its high preparedness and response standards. Senior agency staff were on hand to brief Governor Scott and Lt. Governor Carroll on numerous issues, including: evacuations, disaster logistics, communications, food and medical supply distribution and other key functions of the state’s responsibilities during disasters.

"We have a great team and the state is well prepared," said Governor Scott at the conclusion of the briefing.

For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsert or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

FLORIDA TRAVELERS URGED TO USE CAUTION AS POTENTIALLY DENSE FOG AFFECTS THE STATE THROUGH THURSDAY

2011-01-18T12:00:00.000-05:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging residents and visitors to use caution during the work week as patches of dense fog may affect many Florida roadways statewide through Thursday morning.

“An increasingly humid air mass ahead of an approaching cold front, along with warmer than normal overnight temperatures and calm winds, will create conditions that are favorable for dense fog formation across much of the Florida Panhandle and Florida Peninsula early Wednesday and Thursday morning,” said Amy Godsey, State Meteorologist. “The dense fog is expected to lift by mid-morning. Until then, motorists traveling in these areas should remain alert and prepared for sudden drops in visibility.”

Should driving conditions be impaired, the National Weather Service will issue a Dense Fog Advisory, which means visibilities may be reduced to less than one-quarter mile. Drivers should avoid traveling in dense fog and follow these safety tips:

• During the morning hours when fog is heavier, slow down and allow for extra space between vehicles.
• Use low-beam headlights and be prepared to stop on short notice.
• Avoid driving distractions such as mobile phones and music devices.
• Monitor local road conditions for possible road closures.
• Use extreme caution and allow extra time to reach your destination.

For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsert or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

STRONG ARCTIC AIR MASS BRINGS FREEZING TEMPERATURES TO FLORIDA THIS WEEK

2011-01-12T17:34:00.002-05:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging residents and visitors across Florida to prepare for temperatures near or below the freezing point tonight through Thursday. Very strong northwesterly winds will push an arctic air mass into the Southeast United States throughout the day which will cause frigid daytime and overnight temperatures about ten to twenty degrees below normal with colder wind chill values. Freeze and Hard Freeze Warnings are in place for 60 of Florida’s 67 counties tonight and may be extended for portions of the state into Thursday and Friday. A Wind Chill Advisory is expected to be in effect for nearly all of Florida by tonight.

“The duration and intensity of these cold temperatures can pose a danger to pipes, pets, agriculture and persons without adequate shelter or heating,” said Division of Emergency Management Director David Halstead. “We urge all Floridians to take the necessary precautions to protect their families and property from this cold weather event.”

A Hard Freeze Warning is in effect for all of North Florida, with temperatures dropping below freezing just before midnight and reaching the mid to upper 20s before sunrise both Wednesday and Thursday. The Hard Freeze Warning includes Alachua, Bay, Baker, Bradford, Calhoun, Citrus, Clay, Columbia, Dixie, Duval, Escambia, Flagler, Franklin, Gilchrist, Gulf, Gadsden, Hamilton, Holmes, Jackson, Jefferson, Lafayette, Leon, Levy, Liberty, Madison, Marion, Nassau, Okaloosa, Putnam, Santa Rosa, St. Johns, Suwannee, Taylor, Union, Wakulla, Walton and Washington counties.

There is also a Freeze Warning in effect for all interior and western counties in Central Florida Wednesday night with freezing temperatures expected for three to six hours early Thursday morning. Glades, Hendry, inland Collier and western Palm Beach counties are under a Freeze Warning tonight for four to seven hour durations of temperatures between 27 and 32 degrees. Freeze Warnings may be issued once again for most of these areas on Thursday night.

In addition, winds between 5 and 15 mph overnight will produce wind chill values in the teens across North Florida and in the low 20s to low 30s throughout Central and South Florida. Wind Chill Advisories are possible across North Florida for Thursday night as well.

Wind Chill Advisories or Warnings mean the combination of very cold air and strong winds will make temperatures feel colder than they actually are. Hard Freeze Warnings and Freeze Warnings are issued when sub-freezing temperatures are imminent or highly likely for a prolonged period of time.

These conditions can kill crops and other sensitive vegetation. Young children, the elderly and the homeless are especially vulnerable to the cold so take measures to protect them. Exposed water pipes need to have adequate protection from the cold temperatures.

Residents and visitors should remember the "Five P's" of cold weather safety. The “5 P’s” are: Protecting People, Protecting Plants, Protecting Pets, Protecting Exposed Pipes, and Practicing Fire Safety.

The following actions are important safety measures:

• Stay indoors and use safe heating sources.
• Be aware of the fire danger from space heaters and candles. Keep such devices at least three feet away from all flammable materials such as curtains and furniture, and install recommended smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Indoors: Do not use charcoal or other fuel-burning devices, such as grills that produce carbon monoxide. Install at least one carbon monoxide detector per floor in your home.
• Outdoors: Stay dry and in wind-protected areas.
• Wear multiple layers of loose-fitting, warm clothing.
• Drink non-alcoholic fluids.
• Shelter or bring inside animals, especially pets.

For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsertinfo or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

HIGH RISK OF DANGEROUS RIP CURRENTS EXPECTED THIS WEEKEND FOR FLORIDA'S SOUTHEASTERN COAST

2010-12-31T12:06:00.001-05:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging beachgoers along the Atlantic coast from Palm Beach County south to Miami-Dade County to use extreme caution this weekend as a high risk of dangerous rip currents is expected Friday and Saturday due to strong onshore winds. When red flags are flying beachgoers need to be aware that swimming in the Atlantic Ocean can be dangerous.

“Rip currents can be life-threatening to anyone entering the water along the beaches of Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade Counties this holiday weekend,” State Meteorologist Amy Godsey said. “Beachgoers and surfers should check the rip current outlook, swim near lifeguards and remember the beach warning flag system before going into the water to ensure a safe and enjoyable Florida beach experience.”

A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water that runs perpendicular to the beach, out into the ocean. These currents may extend 200 to 2,500 feet (61 to 762 meters) lengthwise, but they are typically less than 30 feet (9 meters) wide. Also, rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster and are not always identifiable to the average beachgoer.

In Florida, rip currents kill more people annually than thunderstorms, hurricanes and tornadoes combined. They are the number-one concern for beach lifeguards. According to the United States Lifesaving Association, 80 percent of surf beach rescues are attributed to rip currents. The greatest safety precaution that can be taken is to recognize the danger of rip currents and always remember to swim at beaches with lifeguards.

When at the beach:
• Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
• Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches.
• Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify hazards. Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
• Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake. Also, never swim alone.
• Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.
• Consider using polarized sunglasses when at the beach. They will help you to spot signatures of rip currents by cutting down glare and reflected sunlight off the ocean’s surface.
• Pay especially close attention to children and elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.

If caught in a rip current:
• Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
• Never fight against the current.
• Think of it like a treadmill that cannot be turned off, which you need to step to the side of.
• Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
• If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
• If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arm and yelling for help.

If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:
• Get help from a lifeguard.
• If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.
• Throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.
• Yell instructions on how to escape.
• Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.

Follow safe boating practices:
• Have a VHF Marine Band Radio and NOAA Weather Radio on board.
• Check the marine forecast well ahead of time.
• Know the limitations of your boat. If small craft advisories or gale warnings are issued, you should postpone travel.
• Be sure everyone aboard is wearing a life jacket.
• File a float plan at your marina.
• Thunderstorms and weather related hazards form quickly. Never let these storms cut off your route back to land.

Beachgoers who want to learn more about rip currents can visit www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov. Boaters can go to www.srh.noaa.gov/wml to check the current marine conditions and updated forecasts. For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsertinfo or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

HIGH RISK OF DANGEROUS RIP CURRENTS EXPECTED THIS HOLIDAY WEEKEND FOR WESTERN FLORIDA PANHANDLE BEACHES

2010-12-30T12:31:00.001-05:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging beachgoers to use caution today through Saturday as a high risk of dangerous rip currents is expected along the Gulf Coast from Bay County west to Escambia County. There is also an elevated threat for rip currents this weekend along the beaches of Gulf and Franklin County. When red flags are flying, beachgoers need to be aware that swimming in the Gulf of Mexico can be dangerous.

“Strong southeast winds across the northern Gulf Coast will increase Thursday and persist into the New Year as a cold front approaches from the west. These winds are expected to cause rough surf and favorable conditions for strong and frequent rip currents,” said State Meteorologist Amy Godsey. “Beachgoers in the Florida Panhandle should check the rip current outlook and remember the warning flag signs before entering the water this holiday weekend.”

The National Weather Service has also issued a Small Craft Advisory for the Florida Panhandle’s coastal waters as seas are forecast to build as high as eight feet. These wind and surf conditions support dangerous rip currents and are life-threatening to anyone entering the water.

A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water that runs perpendicular to the beach, out into the ocean. These currents may extend 200 to 2,500 feet (61 to 762 meters) lengthwise, but they are typically less than 30 feet (9 meters) wide. Also, rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster and are not always identifiable to the average beachgoer.

In Florida, rip currents kill more people annually than thunderstorms, hurricanes and tornadoes combined. They are the number-one concern for beach lifeguards. According to the United States Lifesaving Association, 80 percent of surf beach rescues are attributed to rip currents. The greatest safety precaution that can be taken is to recognize the danger of rip currents and always remember to swim at beaches with lifeguards.

When at the beach:
• Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
• Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches.
• Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify hazards. Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
• Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake. Also, never swim alone.
• Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.
• Consider using polarized sunglasses when at the beach. They will help you to spot signatures of rip currents by cutting down glare and reflected sunlight off the ocean’s surface.
• Pay especially close attention to children and elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.

If caught in a rip current:
• Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
• Never fight against the current.
• Think of it like a treadmill that cannot be turned off, which you need to step to the side of.
• Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
• If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
• If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arm and yelling for help.

If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:
• Get help from a lifeguard.
• If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.
• Throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.
• Yell instructions on how to escape.
• Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.

Follow safe boating practices:
• Have a VHF Marine Band Radio and NOAA Weather Radio on board.
• Check the marine forecast well ahead of time.
• Know the limitations of your boat. If small craft advisories or gale warnings are issued, you should postpone travel.
• Be sure everyone aboard is wearing a life jacket.
• File a float plan at your marina.
• Thunderstorms and weather related hazards form quickly. Never let these storms cut off your route back to land.

Beachgoers who want to learn more about rip currents can visit www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov. Boaters can go to www.srh.noaa.gov/wml to check the current marine conditions and updated forecasts. For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsertinfo or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

HIGH RISK OF DANGEROUS RIP CURRENTS EXPECTED ALONG PENINSULA GULF COAST BEACHES THROUGH MONDAY

2010-12-27T09:06:00.002-05:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging beachgoers along the Peninsula Gulf Coast to use caution as a high risk of dangerous rip currents is expected today through Monday due to strong winds from the Northwest. The cold, windy conditions are bringing dangerous rip currents to the counties of Levy, Citrus, Hernando, Pasco, Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte and Lee.

“The northwesterly winds now bringing extremely cold temperatures across the state will also cause a high risk of rip currents along the Peninsula Gulf Coast,” said Deputy State Meteorologist Michelle Palmer. “Residents and visitors to the Gulf beaches should use extreme caution while on the beach, check the rip current outlook and follow any instructions from safety officials.”

A High Surf Advisory is also in effect for these counties through 7 p.m. Monday. The offshore waves will be 10-14 feet and breaking waves will be 5-8 feet, resulting in dangerous rip currents for the area. When red flags are flying, beachgoers need to be aware that swimming in the Gulf of Mexico can be dangerous.

A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water that runs perpendicular to the beach, out into the ocean. These currents may extend 200 to 2,500 feet (61 to 762 meters) lengthwise, but they are typically less than 30 feet (9 meters) wide. Also, rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster and are not always identifiable to the average beachgoer.

In Florida, rip currents kill more people annually than thunderstorms, hurricanes and tornadoes combined. They are the number-one concern for beach lifeguards. According to the United States Lifesaving Association, 80 percent of surf beach rescues are attributed to rip currents. The greatest safety precaution that can be taken is to recognize the danger of rip currents and always remember to swim at beaches with lifeguards.

When at the beach:
• Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
• Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches.
• Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify hazards. Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
• Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake. Also, never swim alone.
• Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.
• Consider using polarized sunglasses when at the beach. They will help you to spot signatures of rip currents by cutting down glare and reflected sunlight off the ocean’s surface.
• Pay especially close attention to children and persons who are elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.

If caught in a rip current:
• Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
• Never fight against the current.
• Think of a rip current like a treadmill that cannot be turned off, which you need to step to the side of.
• Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
• If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
• If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arm and yelling for help.

If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:
• Get help from a lifeguard.
• If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.
• Throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.
• Yell instructions on how to escape.
• Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.

Follow safe boating practices:
• Have a VHF Marine Band Radio and NOAA Weather Radio on board.
• Check the marine forecast well ahead of time.
• Know the limitations of your boat. If small craft advisories or gale warnings are issued, you should postpone travel.
• Be sure everyone aboard is wearing a life jacket.
• File a float plan at your marina.
• Thunderstorms and weather-related hazards form quickly. Never let these storms cut off your route back to land.

Beachgoers who want to learn more about rip currents can visit www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov. Boaters can go to www.srh.noaa.gov/wml to check the current marine conditions and updated forecasts. For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsertinfo or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

POLAR AIR MASS TO BRING FREEZING TEMPERATURES ACROSS FLORIDA TONIGHT THROUGH WEDNESDAY

2010-12-27T09:02:00.004-05:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging residents and visitors throughout Florida to prepare for temperatures near or below the freezing mark tonight and is expected to continue through Wednesday. Very strong northwesterly winds will be pushing a polar air mass into the southeast throughout the next few days and will push wind chill values into the teens.

“This system will bring not only extremely cold temperatures and wind chill, but will also bring with it very dry weather,” said Division of Emergency Management Director David Halstead. “These dry conditions make it very possible for dangerous wildfires to occur and spread. We encourage all Floridians to not only practice cold weather safety, but to protect themselves and their property from wildfires.”

A Hard Freeze Warning is in effect tonight for Alachua, Bay, Baker, Bradford, Calhoun, Clay, Columbia, Dixie, Duval, Flagler, Franklin, Gilchrist, Gulf, Gadsden, Hamilton, Holmes, Jackson, Jefferson, Lafayette, Leon, Liberty, Madison, Marion, Nassau, Putnam, St. Johns, Suwannee, Taylor, Union, Wakulla, Walton and Washington counties.

Starting tonight, Freeze Warnings will be in effect for the counties of Brevard, Desoto, Hardee, Highlands, Hillsborough, Indian River, Lake, Manatee, Martin, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Polk, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Lucie, and Volusia. Glades, Hendry and Palm Beach counties will also be under a Freeze Warning.

Similar conditions are expected throughout the next few days. A Freeze Watch is in effect from late Monday night through Tuesday morning for much of Central and South Florida. A Hard Freeze Watch will be in effect for the same North Florida areas’ following tonight’s warning.

Overall, dangerous temperatures and wind chill values will affect most of the state tonight. If residents must venture outdoors, make sure to take all precautions necessary to protect yourself and your family.

Wind Chill Advisories or Warnings mean the combination of very cold air and strong winds will make temperatures feel colder than they actually are. Hard Freeze Warnings and Freeze Warnings are issued when sub-freezing temperatures are imminent or highly likely for a prolonged period of time.

These conditions can kill crops and other sensitive vegetation. Young children, the elderly and the homeless are especially vulnerable to the cold so take measures to protect them. Exposed water pipes need to have adequate protection from the cold temperatures.

Residents and visitors should remember the "Five P's" of cold weather safety. The “5 P’s” are: Protecting People, Protecting Plants, Protecting Pets, Protecting Exposed Pipes, and Practicing Fire Safety.

The following actions are important safety measures:
• Stay indoors and use safe heating sources.
• Be aware of the fire danger from space heaters and candles. Keep such devices away from all flammable materials such as curtains and furniture, and install recommended smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Indoors: Do not use charcoal or other fuel-burning devices, such as grills that produce carbon monoxide. Install at least one carbon monoxide detector per floor in your home.
• Outdoors: Stay dry and in wind-protected areas.
• Wear multiple layers of loose-fitting, warm clothing.
• Drink non-alcoholic fluids.
• Shelter or bring inside animals, especially pets.

For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsertinfo or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT OFFICIALS REMIND ALL FLORIDIANS TO PRACTICE COLD WEATHER SAFETY THROUGHOUT THE HOLIDAY SEASON

2010-12-22T13:46:00.003-05:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are reminding residents and visitors to the Sunshine State to practice cold weather safety this holiday season.

“Weather forecasts are indicating that we may experience colder than usual temperatures over the next week,” said Division of Emergency Management Director, David Halstead. “As we gather with friends and family to enjoy the holiday season, it is important to keep in mind those cold weather safety tips that could prevent unnecessary injury.”

The following actions are important cold weather safety measures:
• Stay indoors and use safe heating sources.
• Be aware of the fire danger from space heaters and candles, keep such devices away from all flammable materials such as curtains and furniture, and install recommended smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Indoors: Do not use charcoal or other fuel-burning devices, such as grills that produce carbon monoxide. Install at least one carbon monoxide detector per floor in your home.
• Outdoors: Stay dry and in wind-protected areas.
• Wear multiple layers of loose-fitting, warm clothing.
• Drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids.

December is an excellent time to commit to building a personal disaster supply kit. Individuals and families will benefit from taking the time to put supply items together in a storage container. A collection of food, water, clothing, essential documents, medicines, and cash will form a foundation for safety residents can add to and monitor throughout the year. Weather radios, flashlights, batteries, first-aid kits, smoke and carbon-monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers are essential supply items that everyone can use. These items are widely available and reasonably priced to fit any budget.

If your home kit is in order, now is the time to refresh the supplies. Although most canned food items last for quite awhile, check the expiration date and consider donating non-expired items to your local food bank or charity. Bottled water should not be stored for prolonged periods but can be used to water plants and Christmas trees.

Disaster Supply Kit Items:

• Water - at least one gallon daily per person for three to seven days

• Food - at least enough for three to seven days:
o non-perishable packaged or canned food/juices
o food for infants or the elderly
o snack foods
o non-electric can opener
o cooking tools and fuel
o paper plates and plastic utensils

• Blankets, pillows, etc.
• Clothing: seasonal, rain gear, sturdy shoes
• First aid kit, medicines, prescription drugs
• Special items for babies and the elderly
• Toiletries, hygiene items, moisture wipes
• Flashlight and batteries
• Battery-operated radio and NOAA All-Hazards Weather Radio
• Cash as banks and ATMs may not be open or available for extended periods
• Keys
• Toys, books and games
• Important documents – in a waterproof container
• Insurance, medical records, bank account numbers, Social Security card, etc.
• Tools – keep a set with you
• Fill vehicles with fuel

• Pet care items:
o Proper identification, immunization records, medications
o Ample supply of food and water
o Carrier or cage
o Muzzle and leash

For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsertinfo or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

STRONG NORTHWEST WINDS EXPECTED TO PRODUCE DANGEROUS RIP CURRENTS ALONG GULF COAST BEACHES TODAY

2010-12-13T15:55:00.005-05:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging beachgoers along the majority of the Gulf Coast to use caution as a high risk of dangerous rip currents is expected today due to strong winds from the Northwest. The cold, breezy conditions will bring a high risk of rip currents to Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, Walton, Bay and Gulf counties in North Florida. Levy, Citrus, Hernando, Pasco, Pinellas, Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, Lee and Collier counties are also at high risk.

“The same northwesterly winds that are producing extremely cold temperatures across the state will also cause a high risk of rip currents along the Gulf Coast,” said Deputy State Meteorologist Michelle Palmer. “Residents and visitors to the Gulf beaches should check the rip current outlook before entering the water and follow any instructions from safety officials.” A moderate rip current risk is also in effect for the Western Big Bend region.

There is also a High Surf Advisory in effect until 4:00 pm Tuesday for West Central Florida counties including Levy, Citrus, Hernando, Pasco, Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte and Lee. The offshore waves will be 15-20 feet and breaking waves will be 6-8 feet, resulting in dangerous rip currents for the area. When red flags are flying, beachgoers need to be aware that swimming in the Gulf of Mexico can be dangerous.

A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water that runs perpendicular to the beach, out into the ocean. These currents may extend 200 to 2,500 feet (61 to 762 meters) lengthwise, but they are typically less than 30 feet (9 meters) wide. Also, rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster and are not always identifiable to the average beachgoer.

In Florida, rip currents kill more people annually than thunderstorms, hurricanes and tornadoes combined. They are the number-one concern for beach lifeguards. According to the United States Lifesaving Association, 80 percent of surf beach rescues are attributed to rip currents. The greatest safety precaution that can be taken is to recognize the danger of rip currents and always remember to swim at beaches with lifeguards.

When at the beach:
• Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
• Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches.
• Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify hazards. Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
• Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake. Also, never swim alone.
• Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.
• Consider using polarized sunglasses when at the beach. They will help you to spot signatures of rip currents by cutting down glare and reflected sunlight off the ocean’s surface.
• Pay especially close attention to children and persons who are elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.

If caught in a rip current:
• Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
• Never fight against the current.
• Think of a rip current like a treadmill that cannot be turned off, which you need to step to the side of.
• Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
• If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
• If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arm and yelling for help.

If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:
• Get help from a lifeguard.
• If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.
• Throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.
• Yell instructions on how to escape.
• Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.

Follow safe boating practices:
• Have a VHF Marine Band Radio and NOAA Weather Radio on board.
• Check the marine forecast well ahead of time.
• Know the limitations of your boat. If small craft advisories or gale warnings are issued, you should postpone travel.
• Be sure everyone aboard is wearing a life jacket.
• File a float plan at your marina.
• Thunderstorms and weather-related hazards form quickly. Never let these storms cut off your route back to land.

Beachgoers who want to learn more about rip currents can visit www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov. Boaters can go to www.srh.noaa.gov/wml to check the current marine conditions and updated forecasts. For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsertinfo or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

ARCTIC COLD FRONT CONTINUES TO BRING COLDEST TEMPERATURES YET THIS SEASON ACROSS FLORIDA THROUGH WEDNESDAY

2010-12-13T13:01:00.001-05:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are again urging all residents and visitors throughout Florida to prepare for temperatures near or below the freezing mark tonight through Wednesday morning. The National Weather Service has issued a Hard Freeze Warning for all of North and Central Florida, and also for Glades, Hendry and Palm Beach counties. A Freeze Warning has also been issued for the rest of South Florida. The entire state is under either a Wind Chill Advisory or Warning, depending on the location.

“Temperatures across the state tonight and tomorrow will be the lowest yet thus far this season, with some areas experiencing temperatures nearly 30 degrees lower than normal for this time of year,” said Division of Emergency Management Director David Halstead. “It is vital that all residents and visitors remember the “Five P’s” of cold weather safety: Protect People, Protect Plants, Protect Pets, Protect Exposed Pipes, and Practice Fire Safety.”

Wind Chill Advisories or Warnings mean the combination of very cold air and strong winds will make temperatures feel colder than they actually are. Hard Freeze Warnings and Freeze Warnings are issued when sub-freezing temperatures are imminent or highly likely for a prolonged period of time. These conditions can kill crops and other sensitive vegetation. Young children, the elderly and the homeless are especially vulnerable to the cold so take measures to protect them. Exposed water pipes need to have adequate protection from the cold temperatures.

Combined low temperatures and wind chills will be low enough to meet shelter opening criteria in North, Central and South Florida tonight and continuing through Wednesday morning. Overall, dangerous temperatures and wind chill values will affect the entire state tonight and tomorrow. If residents must venture outdoors, make sure to take all precautions necessary to protect yourself and your family.

The following actions are important safety measures:
• Stay indoors and use safe heating sources.
• Be aware of the fire danger from space heaters and candles. Keep such devices away from all flammable materials such as curtains and furniture, and install recommended smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Indoors: Do not use charcoal or other fuel-burning devices, such as grills that produce carbon monoxide. Install at least one carbon monoxide detector per floor in your home.
• Outdoors: Stay dry and in wind-protected areas.
• Wear multiple layers of loose-fitting, warm clothing.
• Drink non-alcoholic fluids.
• Shelter or bring inside animals, especially pets.
For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsertinfo or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

FDEM FEATURED PARTNER WITH RADIO DISNEY FOR CONCERT IN CELEBRATION, FL

2010-12-10T15:46:00.006-05:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management will be the highlighted organization during Radio Disney’s Holiday Concert in Celebration, FL. The Division’s character, Professor Tinkermeister, will be on stage with weather experiments, trivia and games. The professor will also be in the Division’s booth to teach families about disaster preparedness. The concert begins at 6:00 pm on Saturday, December 11, 2010.

“We are very grateful for this partnership with Radio Disney,” said Division of Emergency Management Director, David Halstead. ”This event is an excellent opportunity for the Division to speak face to face with Floridians about the importance of severe weather preparedness.”

Florida students can win a visit by Professor Tinkermeister to their school by registering at the Division’s booth. Featured on www.KidsGetAPlan.com, the Professor is a spokesperson who provides family-friendly all weather hazards information. Kids can use the website to help their families be prepared for Florida’s range of severe weather events. The winning school will be notified by phone.

Division representatives will be on hand throughout the evening to provide important disaster preparedness information in their on-site booth. Radio Disney is anticipating 15,000+ residents and visitors to be in attendance.

For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsertinfo or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

FLORIDA EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT OFFICIALS REMIND STUDENTS: DEADLINE FOR 2011 SEVERE WEATHER AWARENESS WEEK POSTER/ VIDEO CONTESTS IS FRIDAY, JANUARY 7

2010-12-08T11:41:00.015-05:00

The Florida Division of Emergency Management and the American Red Cross are reminding Florida students that the deadline to submit entries for the annual Severe Weather Awareness Week poster and public service announcement video contest is Friday, January 7, 2011.

Annual Poster Contest
Fourth and fifth graders in all of Florida’s 67 school districts as well as students who attend private schools or are home-schooled are invited to participate in the statewide poster contest. All entries must be postmarked on or before FRIDAY, JANUARY 7, 2011 and must arrive at the American Red Cross in Tallahassee no later than MONDAY, JANUARY 10, 2011. Winners will be notified by phone. The winners' artwork is scheduled to be displayed in the State Emergency Operations Center during the first full week of February 2011. Prizes will include tickets for the winner and their family to Walt Disney World, weather radios and many other exciting things to be announced soon. For complete contest rules go to www.FloridaDisaster.org/SWAW/2011.

Annual Video PSA Contest
Florida middle and high school students in grades 6-8 and 9-12, including students who attend private schools or are home-schooled are invited to produce a 30-second public service announcement (PSA) incorporating a safety or preparedness message about one of the following topics: Hurricane Preparedness, Flood Safety or Building a Disaster Supply Kit.

Final digital videos must be mastered as a DVD for submission to the Division. All entries must be postmarked on or before FRIDAY, JANUARY 7, 2011 and must arrive at the Florida Division of Emergency Management in Tallahassee no later than MONDAY, JANUARY 10, 2011. For complete contest rules and topic information, go to www.FloridaDisaster.org/SWAW/2011.

There will be one individual or group (limit four people per group) winner chosen for both middle school and high school-level videos. The winning video(s) will be professionally re-produced for broadcast use by the Division of Emergency Management in their statewide public awareness campaign. A production team will come to the winner(s) hometown and will spend a full day shooting the winning PSA, with the winner(s) acting as the project director. Additional prizes will include tickets for the winner and their family to Walt Disney World, weather radios and many other exciting things to be announced soon.

Winners will be announced on January 29, 2011, at a kick-off event for Severe Weather Awareness Week in Central Florida. Winners unable to attend this event will be mailed their additional prizes.

These contests are part of an annual public awareness campaign that also includes the statewide Tornado Drill to be conducted by the National Weather Service Offices in Florida at 10:10 a.m. Eastern Time (9:10 a.m. Central Time), on Wednesday, February 2, 2011.

For more information on Florida’s 2011 Severe Weather Awareness Week go to www.FloridaDisaster.org/SWAW/2011. For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsertinfo or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

ARCTIC COLD FRONT TO BRING BELOW-FREEZING TEMPERATURES ACROSS FLORIDA THROUGH THURSDAY

2010-12-06T15:38:00.003-05:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging residents and visitors throughout Florida to prepare for temperatures near or below the freezing mark tonight through Thursday morning. Temperatures could reach the lower 20s away from the coast across Northern Florida and near the freezing mark in pockets as far south as the Everglades. The National Weather Service has already issued Freeze Warnings for a large portion of Central and South Florida, with Hard Freeze Warnings in place for much of North Florida. Though Freeze Warnings are in effect for inland areas of South Florida, areas closer to the coast are under a Freeze Watch.

“Residents and visitors across the state should prepare for a long period of freezing temperatures each morning that could harm vegetation, pipes, animals and people,” said Division of Emergency Management Director David Halstead. “These cold temperatures may prompt the opening of shelters across the state and we encourage all Floridians to protect themselves and practice cold weather safety.”

A freeze warning means sub-freezing temperatures are imminent or highly likely for at least two hours. These conditions can kill crops and other sensitive vegetation. The elderly and the homeless are especially vulnerable to the cold so take measures to protect them. Exposed water pipes need to have adequate protection from the cold temperatures.

Combined low temperatures and wind chills will be low enough to meet shelter opening criteria in North, Central and South Florida beginning tonight and continuing through Wednesday night and Thursday morning.

Residents and visitors should remember the "Five P's" of cold weather safety. The “5 P’s” are: Protecting People, Protecting Plants, Protecting Pets, Protecting Exposed Pipes, and Practicing Fire Safety.

The following actions are important safety measures:
• Stay indoors and use safe heating sources.
• Be aware of the fire danger from space heaters and candles. Keep such devices away from all flammable materials such as curtains and furniture, and install recommended smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Indoors: Do not use charcoal or other fuel-burning devices, such as grills that produce carbon monoxide. Install at least one carbon monoxide detector per floor in your home.
• Outdoors: Stay dry and in wind-protected areas.
• Wear multiple layers of loose-fitting, warm clothing.
• Drink non-alcoholic fluids.
• Shelter or bring inside animals, especially pets.

For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsertinfo or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

STATE OFFICIALS ENCOURAGE RESIDENTS ACROSS NORTHERN FLORIDA TO PREPARE FOR FREEZING TEMPERATURES TONIGHT AND THURSDAY

2010-12-01T14:22:00.001-05:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are encouraging residents and visitors across northern portions of the state to prepare for freezing overnight temperatures through Thursday. The National Weather Service has issued a Freeze Warning from Escambia County east to Nassau County and south to Citrus County through early Thursday morning. A Freeze Warning means sub-freezing temperatures are imminent or highly likely for at least two hours. Freeze Warnings are likely to be issued for the same areas Thursday night as well.

“Though no Hard Freeze Warnings have been issued, this is the first widespread freeze of the season,” said State Meteorologist Amy Godsey. “Now is a good opportunity for residents to review cold weather safety tips and prepare for future freezes.”

Throughout inland areas of the Florida Panhandle, Big Bend and Northeast Florida, temperatures will reach between 28 and 32 degrees with slightly warmer temperatures along the immediate coast. For locations that do not quite reach freezing tonight, low temperatures in the middle 30’s will still support areas of frost formation. These conditions can kill crops and other sensitive vegetation.

Floridians should remember the "Five P's" of cold weather safety. The “5 P’s” are: Protecting People, Protecting Plants, Protecting Pets, Protecting Exposed Pipes, and Practicing Fire Safety.

The following actions are important cold weather safety measures:
• Stay indoors and use safe heating sources.
• Be aware of the fire danger from space heaters and candles, keep such devices away from all flammable materials such as curtains and furniture, and install recommended smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Indoors: Do not use charcoal or other fuel-burning devices, such as grills that produce carbon monoxide. Install at least one carbon monoxide detector per floor in your home.
• Outdoors: Stay dry and in wind-protected areas.
• Wear multiple layers of loose-fitting, warm clothing.
• Drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids.
For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsertinfo or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

HIGH RISK OF DANGEROUS RIP CURRENTS EXPECTED FOR NORTHWEST FLORIDA BEACHES TODAY

2010-11-30T15:26:00.006-05:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging beachgoers in Walton, Bay, Gulf and Franklin counties to use extreme caution as a high risk of rip currents is expected today. A moderate risk of rip currents is also expected for Escambia, Santa Rosa and Okaloosa counties. There is also a Small Craft Advisory for the entire northern Gulf coast west of the Suwannee River entrance. When red flags are flying, beachgoers need to be aware that swimming in the Gulf of Mexico can be dangerous.

“Rip currents are one of the most dangerous hazards at the beach,” said State Meteorologist Amy Godsey. “With the high risk of rip currents in the area, residents and visitors to the beaches of Northwest Florida should check the rip current outlook before entering the water and follow any instructions from safety officials.”

A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water that runs perpendicular to the beach, out into the ocean. These currents may extend 200 to 2,500 feet (61 to 762 meters) lengthwise, but they are typically less than 30 feet (9 meters) wide. Also, rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster and are not always identifiable to the average beachgoer.

In Florida, rip currents kill more people annually than thunderstorms, hurricanes and tornadoes combined. They are the number-one concern for beach lifeguards. According to the United States Lifesaving Association, 80 percent of surf beach rescues are attributed to rip currents. The greatest safety precaution that can be taken is to recognize the danger of rip currents and always remember to swim at beaches with lifeguards.

When at the beach:
• Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
• Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches.
• Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify hazards. Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
• Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake. Also, never swim alone.
• Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.
• Consider using polarized sunglasses when at the beach. They will help you to spot signatures of rip currents by cutting down glare and reflected sunlight off the ocean’s surface.
• Pay especially close attention to children and persons who are elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.

If caught in a rip current:
• Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
• Never fight against the current.
• Think of a rip current like a treadmill that cannot be turned off, which you need to step to the side of.
• Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
• If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
• If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arm and yelling for help.

If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:
• Get help from a lifeguard.
• If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.
• Throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.
• Yell instructions on how to escape.
• Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.
Follow safe boating practices:
• Have a VHF Marine Band Radio and NOAA Weather Radio on board.
• Check the marine forecast well ahead of time.
• Know the limitations of your boat. If small craft advisories or gale warnings are issued, you should postpone travel.
• Be sure everyone aboard is wearing a life jacket.
• File a float plan at your marina.
• Thunderstorms and weather-related hazards form quickly. Never let these storms cut off your route back to land.

Beachgoers who want to learn more about rip currents can visit www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov. Boaters can go to www.srh.noaa.gov/wml to check the current marine conditions and updated forecasts. For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsertinfo or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

2010 ATLANTIC HURRICANE SEASON ENDS, WILDFIRE AND SEVERE WEATHER SEASONS BEGIN

2010-11-30T11:55:00.000-05:00

Florida emergency management officials gathered today at the State Emergency Operations Center to mark the official end of the 2010 Hurricane Season and remind Floridians that emergency preparedness does not end with hurricane season.

“Florida was blessed this year with minimal impacts from a very active hurricane season,” said Division of Emergency Management Director David Halstead. “However, potentially serious drought conditions are developing statewide and beginning to resemble the drought conditions of 1998 which led to the most severe wildfire season in Florida’s recent history.”

The 2010 Atlantic Hurricane Season was extremely active, tying 1995 for the third most named storms in a season. There were 19 named storms, including 12 hurricanes, five of which became a category three or higher on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. Since 1944, only two seasons (1969 and 2005) have had 12 or more hurricanes in a single season. Though the Sunshine State was spared a major landfall, Tropical Storm Bonnie brought several inches of rain over portions of Southern Florida.

“The La Niña phenomenon that produced an above-average hurricane season may also produce an equally active wildfire season for the Southeastern United States,” said State Meteorologist Amy Godsey. “Floridians should monitor drought conditions and heed any local officials’ advisories about burning or water restrictions.”

In addition to the 1998 wildfire season, Florida has also experienced several other destructive severe weather events in recent years. In February 2007, a deadly tornado outbreak struck across Central Florida. Known as the Groundhog Day Tornadoes, three separate tornadoes in the early morning hours touched down between Lake and Volusia counties, two of which were EF-3 strength on the Enhanced Fujita Scale (155-160 mph winds). The swath of damage extended nearly 70 miles and caused 21 fatalities and $270 million in damage, making it the deadliest tornado disaster in the United States that year.

To monitor these potential weather conditions, residents and visitors are encouraged to have a NOAA All-Hazards Weather Radio. This portable radio alerts listeners to warnings of possible tornados, severe storms and potential for wildfire. The NOAA All-Hazards Weather Radio is available for purchase through various Internet outlets and at many retail electronics, sporting goods, and marine accessory stores. Floridians are also encouraged to purchase spare batteries for their NOAA Weather Radio, as electricity can be lost during emergency events.

For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsertinfo or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

THANKSGIVING TRAVELERS URGED TO USE CAUTION AS POTENTIALLY DENSE FOG AFFECTS THE STATE THROUGH SATURDAY

2010-11-23T14:52:00.016-05:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging residents and visitors to use caution during the Thanksgiving holiday as patches of dense fog may affect North Florida roadways through Thursday morning and extend into Saturday across portions of Central and South Florida.

“An increasingly humid air mass ahead of an approaching cold front, along with warmer than normal overnight temperatures and calm winds, will create conditions that are favorable for dense fog formation across much of the Florida Panhandle and portions of the Florida Peninsula each evening and early morning,” said Amy Godsey, State Meteorologist. “The dense fog is expected to lift by mid-morning. Until then, motorists travelling in these areas should remain alert and prepared for sudden drops in visibility”.

Should driving conditions be impaired, the National Weather Service will issue a Dense Fog Advisory, which means visibilities may be reduced to less than one-quarter mile.

Drivers should avoid traveling in dense fog and follow these safety tips:
• During the morning hours when fog is heavier, slow down and allow for extra space between vehicles.
• Use low-beam headlights and be prepared to stop on short notice.
• Avoid driving distractions such as mobile phones and music devices.
• Monitor local road conditions for possible road closures.
• Use extreme caution and allow extra time to reach your destination.

For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsertinfo or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

HIGH RISK OF DANGEROUS RIP CURRENTS EXPECTED FOR SOUTHEAST FLORIDA BEACHES TODAY

2010-11-22T10:48:00.000-05:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging beachgoers in Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade counties to use extreme caution as a high risk of rip currents is expected today. When red flags are flying, beachgoers need to be aware that swimming in the Atlantic Ocean can be dangerous.

“Though the weather will be warm and sunny in Southeast Florida today, breezy onshore winds will cause a high risk of rip currents along the state’s southern Atlantic coast,” said State Meteorologist Amy Godsey. “Beachgoers should check the warning flag signs before entering the water and swim within sight of a lifeguard.”

A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water that runs perpendicular to the beach, out into the ocean. These currents may extend 200 to 2,500 feet (61 to 762 meters) lengthwise, but they are typically less than 30 feet (9 meters) wide. Also, rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster and are not always identifiable to the average beachgoer.

In Florida, rip currents kill more people annually than thunderstorms, hurricanes and tornadoes combined. They are the number-one concern for beach lifeguards. According to the United States Lifesaving Association, 80 percent of surf beach rescues are attributed to rip currents. The greatest safety precaution that can be taken is to recognize the danger of rip currents and always remember to swim at beaches with lifeguards.

When at the beach:
• Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
• Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches.
• Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify hazards. Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
• Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake. Also, never swim alone.
• Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.
• Consider using polarized sunglasses when at the beach. They will help you to spot signatures of rip currents by cutting down glare and reflected sunlight off the ocean’s surface.
• Pay especially close attention to children and persons who are elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.

If caught in a rip current:
• Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
• Never fight against the current.
• Think of a rip current like a treadmill that cannot be turned off, which you need to step to the side of.
• Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
• If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
• If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arm and yelling for help.

If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:
• Get help from a lifeguard.
• If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.
• Throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.
• Yell instructions on how to escape.
• Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.

Follow safe boating practices:
• Have a VHF Marine Band Radio and NOAA Weather Radio on board.
• Check the marine forecast well ahead of time.
• Know the limitations of your boat. If small craft advisories or gale warnings are issued, you should postpone travel.
• Be sure everyone aboard is wearing a life jacket.
• File a float plan at your marina.
• Thunderstorms and weather-related hazards form quickly. Never let these storms cut off your route back to land.

Beachgoers who want to learn more about rip currents can visit www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov. Boaters can go to www.srh.noaa.gov/wml to check the current marine conditions and updated forecasts. For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsertinfo or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

FLORIDA PANHANDLE AND BIG BEND RESIDENTS URGED TO STAY ALERT AS STORM SYSTEM BRINGS POTENTIAL FOR SEVERE WEATHER TONIGHT AND TOMORROW

2010-11-15T14:17:00.000-05:00

TALLAHASSEE – State and local emergency management officials are urging residents and visitors in the Florida Panhandle and Florida Big Bend areas to stay alert and exercise caution as a potentially severe storm system moves into the area today and tomorrow.

“The Storm Prediction Center has placed all of the Florida Panhandle and Western Big Bend in an area for an enhanced risk of severe storms on Monday night and early Tuesday morning,” said Director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management David Halstead. “This severe weather threat may spread east on Tuesday, and we encourage residents and visitors across the region to monitor this weather system and to be prepared to act if warnings are issued.”

This storm system will have the potential to produce isolated tornadoes and damaging wind gusts, especially during the overnight hours, along with one to two inches of rain. Damaging wind gusts will also be possible in the Florida Big Bend on Tuesday. Residents and visitors to the state should monitor local media outlets and ensure that their NOAA All Hazards Weather Radio alert settings are turned on.

For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org.

CONTINUED HIGH RISK OF LARGE WAVES AND RIP CURRENTS EXPECTED FOR EAST CENTRAL AND SOUTHEAST FLORIDA BEACHES TODAY

2010-11-15T10:15:00.000-05:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are again urging beachgoers and boaters along Florida’s East Coast to exercise caution today as lingering high waves associated with a storm system in the central Atlantic Ocean continue to cause hazardous marine conditions. A high risk of rip currents is forecast today for the Atlantic Coast between Volusia and Palm Beach counties, with a moderate risk for dangerous rip currents in Nassau, Duval, St. Johns, Flagler, Broward and Miami-Dade counties.

“Lingering ocean swells from this large system may once again bring rough seas, minor beach erosion and strong rip currents to much of Florida’s East Coast today,” said State Meteorologist Amy Godsey. “These impacts will continue to make area beach conditions dangerous, and beachgoers and mariners should heed local officials’ warnings and avoid swimming where red flags are flying.”

A High Surf Advisory is in effect for Palm Beach and Broward Counties for large wave action, rip currents and localized beach erosion through Monday evening. The high seas over the open Atlantic Ocean will cause breaking waves along the coast to be as high as 13 feet near Palm Beach County and between four and nine feet along the Broward and Miami-Dade coasts. Waves of five to seven feet are expected for the eastern Central Florida coast today.

Transit through inlets will be dangerous for mariners, especially during times of outgoing tides, and there is a Small Craft Advisory in effect along Florida’s East Coast between Nassau and Broward counties through tonight.

A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water that runs perpendicular to the beach, out into the ocean. These currents may extend 200 to 2,500 feet (61 to 762 meters) lengthwise, but they are typically less than 30 feet (9 meters) wide. Also, rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster and are not always identifiable to the average beachgoer.

In Florida, rip currents kill more people annually than thunderstorms, hurricanes and tornadoes combined. They are the number-one concern for beach lifeguards. According to the United States Lifesaving Association, 80 percent of surf beach rescues are attributed to rip currents. The greatest safety precaution that can be taken is to recognize the danger of rip currents and always remember to swim at beaches with lifeguards.

When at the beach:
• Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
• Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches.
• Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify hazards. Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
• Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake. Also, never swim alone.
• Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.
• Consider using polarized sunglasses when at the beach. They will help you to spot signatures of rip currents by cutting down glare and reflected sunlight off the ocean’s surface.
• Pay especially close attention to children and persons who are elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.

If caught in a rip current:
• Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
• Never fight against the current.
• Think of a rip current like a treadmill that cannot be turned off, which you need to step to the side of.
• Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
• If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
• If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arm and yelling for help.

If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:
• Get help from a lifeguard.
• If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.
• Throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.
• Yell instructions on how to escape.
• Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.

Follow safe boating practices:
• Have a VHF Marine Band Radio and NOAA Weather Radio on board.
• Check the marine forecast well ahead of time.
• Know the limitations of your boat. If small craft advisories or gale warnings are issued, you should postpone travel.
• Be sure everyone aboard is wearing a life jacket.
• File a float plan at your marina.
• Thunderstorms and weather-related hazards form quickly. Never let these storms cut off your route back to land.

Beachgoers who want to learn more about rip currents can visit www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov. Boaters can go to www.srh.noaa.gov/wml to check the current marine conditions and updated forecasts. For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsertinfo or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

FLORIDA EAST COAST RESIDENTS URGED TO USE CAUTION THIS WEEKEND AS STORM SYSTEM BRINGS POTENTIAL FOR LARGE WAVES AND STRONG RIP CURRENTS

2010-11-12T11:39:00.001-05:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging beachgoers along Florida’s East Coast to exercise caution as a complex storm system off the United States Eastern seaboard will bring a variety of marine hazards to the state this weekend.

“Breezy winds and ocean swells from this large system could bring rough seas, pounding surf, beach erosion and numerous strong rip currents to Florida’s East Coast today through Sunday,” said State Meteorologist Amy Godsey. “This system is likely to make beach and boating conditions very dangerous, and we strongly urge beachgoers and boaters to heed local officials’ warnings and to avoid swimming where red flags are flying.”

Seas over the open Atlantic Ocean are forecast to build between eight and 13 feet on Friday. Large northeast swells will cause seas to build as high as 10 to 15 feet Saturday, with eight to 13 foot seas expected on Sunday. Transit through inlets will be dangerous for mariners, especially during times of outgoing tides.

These sea heights will likely translate to large breaking surf along East Coast beaches of between five and 12 feet, which will peak in height on Saturday. Some waves could be as large as 14 feet. A High Surf Advisory is in effect for Volusia, Brevard, Indian River, St. Lucie, Martin, Palm Beach and Broward counties for large wave action, rip currents and localized beach erosion through Monday morning. However, dangerous rip currents are expected along Florida’s entire East Coast between Nassau and Miami-Dade counties through Sunday.

A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water that runs perpendicular to the beach, out into the ocean. These currents may extend 200 to 2,500 feet (61 to 762 meters) lengthwise, but they are typically less than 30 feet (9 meters) wide. Also, rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster and are not always identifiable to the average beachgoer.

In Florida, rip currents kill more people annually than thunderstorms, hurricanes and tornadoes combined. They are the number-one concern for beach lifeguards. According to the United States Lifesaving Association, 80 percent of surf beach rescues are attributed to rip currents. The greatest safety precaution that can be taken is to recognize the danger of rip currents and always remember to swim at beaches with lifeguards.

When at the beach:
• Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
• Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches.
• Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify hazards. Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
• Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake. Also, never swim alone.
• Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.
• Consider using polarized sunglasses when at the beach. They will help you to spot signatures of rip currents by cutting down glare and reflected sunlight off the ocean’s surface.
• Pay especially close attention to children and persons who are elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.

If caught in a rip current:
• Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
• Never fight against the current.
• Think of a rip current like a treadmill that cannot be turned off, which you need to step to the side of.
• Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
• If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
• If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arm and yelling for help.

If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:
• Get help from a lifeguard.
• If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.
• Throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.
• Yell instructions on how to escape.
• Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.

Follow safe boating practices:
• Have a VHF Marine Band Radio and NOAA Weather Radio on board.
• Check the marine forecast well ahead of time.
• Know the limitations of your boat. If small craft advisories or gale warnings are issued, you should postpone travel.
• Be sure everyone aboard is wearing a life jacket.
• File a float plan at your marina.
• Thunderstorms and weather-related hazards form quickly. Never let these storms cut off your route back to land.

Beachgoers who want to learn more about rip currents can visit www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov. Boaters can go to www.srh.noaa.gov/wml to check the current marine conditions and updated forecasts. For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsertinfo or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

FLORIDA CABINET APPROVES 2010 STATEWIDE EMERGENCY SHELTER PLAN

2010-11-09T13:10:00.000-05:00

TALLAHASSEE—Governor Charlie Crist today announced the approval of the 2010 Statewide Emergency Shelter Plan by the Florida Cabinet. Since 1999, state, federal and local agencies have created 1,113,058 shelter spaces, approximately 77 percent of the state’s shelter demand.

“Though Florida has been blessed recently with quiet hurricane seasons, it is vital that our residents and visitors have a safe place to shelter should our state be threatened by a storm once again,” said Governor Crist. “I applaud the ongoing commitment of Florida’s Legislature, state and local agencies to ensuring our state has adequate shelter capacity.”

Every other year, the Division of Emergency Management updates Florida’s local and regional planning guide for the construction of new public schools, community colleges and university facilities to meet the Florida Department of Education’s Public Shelter Design Criteria. The 2010 Statewide Emergency Shelter Plan is a five-year plan and outlines the requirements for establishing safe public shelter spaces throughout the state.

As Florida’s population continues to grow, it is estimated that from 2010 to 2015, nearly 550,000 new residents will reside in areas vulnerable to the effects of major hurricanes, with approximately 20 percent seeking safety in public shelters during hurricanes. To meet these challenges, the State builds new shelter capacity through a combination of retrofitting existing schools and public facilities and enhancing the hurricane resistance of new schools.

“Creating new shelter spaces is truly a team effort and we are grateful for our partners at the Department of Education and local school boards for their dedication to protecting Floridians during disasters,” said Division of Emergency Management Director David Halstead. “Together, we will continue to work towards providing safe shelter to all those who need it during a disaster.”

For more information on the 2010 Statewide Emergency Shelter Plan, the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org.

HIGH RISK OF DANGEROUS RIP CURRENTS EXPECTED FOR SOUTHEAST FLORIDA BEACHES TODAY

2010-11-08T11:57:00.001-05:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging beachgoers in Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade counties to use extreme caution as a high risk of rip currents is expected today. There is also a moderate risk of rip currents for the remainder of the Atlantic Coast between Nassau and Martin counties and a Small Craft Advisory for all of Florida’s Atlantic coastal waters. When red flags are flying, beachgoers need to be aware that swimming in the Atlantic Ocean can be dangerous.

“Northerly winds of 15 to 20 miles per hour combined with ocean swells of two to four feet will likely create a high risk of rip currents along Florida’s southern Atlantic coast today,” said State Meteorologist Amy Godsey. “We strongly urge beachgoers to heed local officials’ warnings and stay out of the water where red flags are flying.”

A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water that runs perpendicular to the beach, out into the ocean. These currents may extend 200 to 2,500 feet (61 to 762 meters) lengthwise, but they are typically less than 30 feet (9 meters) wide. Also, rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster and are not always identifiable to the average beachgoer.

In Florida, rip currents kill more people annually than thunderstorms, hurricanes and tornadoes combined. They are the number-one concern for beach lifeguards. According to the United States Lifesaving Association, 80 percent of surf beach rescues are attributed to rip currents. The greatest safety precaution that can be taken is to recognize the danger of rip currents and always remember to swim at beaches with lifeguards.

When at the beach:
• Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
• Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches.
• Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify hazards. Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
• Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake. Also, never swim alone.
• Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.
• Consider using polarized sunglasses when at the beach. They will help you to spot signatures of rip currents by cutting down glare and reflected sunlight off the ocean’s surface.
• Pay especially close attention to children and persons who are elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.

If caught in a rip current:
• Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
• Never fight against the current.
• Think of a rip current like a treadmill that cannot be turned off, which you need to step to the side of.
• Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
• If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
• If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arm and yelling for help.

If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:
• Get help from a lifeguard.
• If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.
• Throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.
• Yell instructions on how to escape.
• Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.

Follow safe boating practices:
• Have a VHF Marine Band Radio and NOAA Weather Radio on board.
• Check the marine forecast well ahead of time.
• Know the limitations of your boat. If small craft advisories or gale warnings are issued, you should postpone travel.
• Be sure everyone aboard is wearing a life jacket.
• File a float plan at your marina.
• Thunderstorms and weather-related hazards form quickly. Never let these storms cut off your route back to land.

Beachgoers who want to learn more about rip currents can visit www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov. Boaters can go to www.srh.noaa.gov/wml to check the current marine conditions and updated forecasts. For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsertinfo or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

HIGH RISK OF DANGEROUS RIP CURRENTS EXPECTED FOR NORTHWEST FLORIDA BEACHES TODAY

2010-10-26T11:38:00.000-04:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging beachgoers in Escambia, Santa Rosa, and Okaloosa counties to use extreme caution as a high risk of rip currents is expected today. There is also a Small Craft Advisory for Western Panhandle counties. When red flags are flying, beachgoers need to be aware that swimming in the Gulf of Mexico can be dangerous.

“Rip currents are one of the most dangerous hazards at the beach,” said State Meteorologist Amy Godsey. “With the high risk of rip currents in the area, residents and visitors to the beaches of Northwest Florida should check the rip current outlook before entering the water and follow any instructions from safety officials.”

A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water that runs perpendicular to the beach, out into the ocean. These currents may extend 200 to 2,500 feet (61 to 762 meters) lengthwise, but they are typically less than 30 feet (9 meters) wide. Also, rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster and are not always identifiable to the average beachgoer.

In Florida, rip currents kill more people annually than thunderstorms, hurricanes and tornadoes combined. They are the number-one concern for beach lifeguards. According to the United States Lifesaving Association, 80 percent of surf beach rescues are attributed to rip currents. The greatest safety precaution that can be taken is to recognize the danger of rip currents and always remember to swim at beaches with lifeguards.

When at the beach:
• Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
• Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches.
• Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify hazards. Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
• Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake. Also, never swim alone.
• Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.
• Consider using polarized sunglasses when at the beach. They will help you to spot signatures of rip currents by cutting down glare and reflected sunlight off the ocean’s surface.
• Pay especially close attention to children and persons who are elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.

If caught in a rip current:
• Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
• Never fight against the current.
• Think of a rip current like a treadmill that cannot be turned off, which you need to step to the side of.
• Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
• If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
• If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arm and yelling for help.

If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:
• Get help from a lifeguard.
• If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.
• Throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.
• Yell instructions on how to escape.
• Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.

Follow safe boating practices:
• Have a VHF Marine Band Radio and NOAA Weather Radio on board.
• Check the marine forecast well ahead of time.
• Know the limitations of your boat. If small craft advisories or gale warnings are issued, you should postpone travel.
• Be sure everyone aboard is wearing a life jacket.
• File a float plan at your marina.
• Thunderstorms and weather-related hazards form quickly. Never let these storms cut off your route back to land.

Beachgoers who want to learn more about rip currents can visit www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov. Boaters can go to www.srh.noaa.gov/wml to check the current marine conditions and updated forecasts. For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsertinfo or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

If a Disaster Struck Today, Would You and Your Family Be Ready?

2010-10-15T11:01:00.003-04:00

If a disaster struck today, would you and your family be ready?

As Floridians, we know that disasters can happen anywhere and anytime in the Sunshine State. No part of the state is immune from disasters. We must always be ready to protect ourselves, our families, and our loved ones from a potential catastrophe. So, as we enter into the final months of hurricane season, let’s take a moment to review some important preparedness information.

First, let’s talk about the importance of a disaster-survival plan. It is crucial for all Floridians to have a disaster-survival plan, as proper emergency planning can greatly reduce the risk of disasters to the state’s residents and visitors. This plan should be flexible, and serve as a guide for individuals both before and during disasters. Some really important questions to ask yourself when making a disaster-survival plan include:

 If my family has to evacuate before a disaster, where will we go?
 How am I going to take care of elderly family members, friends, or neighbors during emergencies?
 What accommodations have to be made for any family members or friends with disabilities or special needs?
 Where are my pets and animals (including farm animals!) going to go if I need to leave my home? Service animals for persons with disabilities or special needs are exceptions.
 What evacuation route am I going to take if I need to leave my home?

To help you build your individual and family disaster-survival plan, you can go to www.FloridaDisaster.org. There, you can click on the “Get A Family Plan” link, and start building your plan today.

We should also take a moment to go over the importance of having a disaster supply kit. After some disasters, it may take emergency managers and first responders up to three days to reach you. During this time, you may have to provide for yourself and your family. We urge all Floridians to have the following items on hand and centrally located in case of such emergencies:

 2 gallons of water per person, per day (for drinking, cooking, and hygiene purposes)
 Ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits, vegetables, and soups
 Special foods for babies or older people
 Manual can opener
 Pots, pans, plates, and utensils
 Food for pets
 Prescription medications
 First Aid kit
 Cash (Small bills are best. Think $1’s, $5’s, and $10’s.)
 Important documents

It is never too soon to prepare for disasters. You can take the necessary steps to protect yourself and your family by building a disaster-survival plan and disaster supply kit today.

If a disaster struck today, would you and your family be ready?

Hurricane Paula Update

2010-10-13T12:14:00.001-04:00

MESSAGE OF THE DAY

“Though the official forecast does not have Hurricane Paula making landfall in Florida, it is an unpredictable storm and residents and visitors across South Florida are urged to monitor its progress carefully,” said David Halstead, director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management. “Now is a good time to ensure your family disaster plan and supply kit are up-to-date and ready.”

CURRENT SITUATION - 11A.M.

o At 11 a.m. EDT, Hurricane Paula was located in the Yucatan Channel about 65 miles from the western tip of Cuba and 345 miles southwest of Key West.

o Paula is still a Category 2 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale with maximum winds near 100 mph. However, some weakening is possible over the next two days.

o The National Hurricane Center has issued Tropical Storm Watches for the Florida Keys from Craig Key westward, including the Dry Tortugas. A Tropical Storm Watch means tropical storm force winds are possible in the Watch area within the next 48 hours.

o Based on the latest forecast, this system is expected to continue moving northward through the Yucatan Channel before turning northeast this afternoon. Strong upper level steering currents will move Paula eastward tomorrow, taking the system across the northern coast of Cuba over the next four to five days.

o Beyond 36 hours, the official forecast is somewhat uncertain and therefore, there is a small possibility that the center of Paula could move through the Florida Straits. A cold front moving through the state will pull tropical moisture from Paula northward into South Florida and rainfall amounts may approach two to four inches by Friday.

STATE ACTIONS

o The State Emergency Operations Center is closely monitoring the progress of Hurricane Paula and prepared to respond as necessary to support any impacted counties.

RECOMMENDED ACTIONS FOR THE PUBLIC

o Residents and visitors in South Florida are urged to monitor this system, review their family and business disaster supply plans and kits and make any updates necessary.

o Mariners in South Florida should make preparations to secure their vessels in safe harbor.

For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsertinfo

HIGH RISK OF DANGEROUS RIP CURRENTS EXPECTED THIS WEEK FOR SOUTHEAST FLORIDA BEACHES

2010-10-05T17:09:00.000-04:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging beachgoers along the Atlantic coast from Palm Beach County south to Miami-Dade County to use caution today through Thursday as a high risk of dangerous rip currents is expected. There is also an elevated threat for rip currents this week along Northeast and East Central Florida beaches. When red flags are flying, beachgoers need to be aware that swimming in the Atlantic Ocean can be dangerous.

“Strong north-northeast winds will develop along the Atlantic coast and persist through Thursday, which could cause rough surf and favorable conditions for strong and frequent rip currents,” said State Meteorologist Amy Godsey. “Beachgoers in Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade counties should check the rip current outlook and remember the warning flag signs before entering the water this week.”

A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water that runs perpendicular to the beach, out into the ocean. These currents may extend 200 to 2,500 feet (61 to 762 meters) lengthwise, but they are typically less than 30 feet (9 meters) wide. Also, rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster and are not always identifiable to the average beachgoer.

In Florida, rip currents kill more people annually than thunderstorms, hurricanes and tornadoes combined. They are the number-one concern for beach lifeguards. According to the United States Lifesaving Association, 80 percent of surf beach rescues are attributed to rip currents. The greatest safety precaution that can be taken is to recognize the danger of rip currents and always remember to swim at beaches with lifeguards.

When at the beach:
• Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
• Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches.
• Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify hazards. Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
• Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake. Also, never swim alone.
• Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.
• Consider using polarized sunglasses when at the beach. They will help you to spot signatures of rip currents by cutting down glare and reflected sunlight off the ocean’s surface.
• Pay especially close attention to children and elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.

If caught in a rip current:
• Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
• Never fight against the current.
• Think of it like a treadmill that cannot be turned off, which you need to step to the side of.
• Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
• If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
• If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arm and yelling for help.

If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:
• Get help from a lifeguard.
• If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.
• Throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.
• Yell instructions on how to escape.
• Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.

Follow safe boating practices:
• Have a VHF Marine Band Radio and NOAA Weather Radio on board.
• Check the marine forecast well ahead of time.
• Know the limitations of your boat. If small craft advisories or gale warnings are issued, you should postpone travel.
• Be sure everyone aboard is wearing a life jacket.
• File a float plan at your marina.
• Thunderstorms and weather-related hazards form quickly. Never let these storms cut off your route back to land.

Beachgoers who want to learn more about rip currents can visit www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov. Boaters can go to www.srh.noaa.gov/wml to check the current marine conditions and updated forecasts.

FLORIDA DIVISION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AND THE AMERICAN RED CROSS ANNOUNCE 2011 SEVERE WEATHER AWARENESS WEEK, POSTER AND VIDEO CONTESTS

2010-10-05T10:45:00.003-04:00

The Florida Division of Emergency Management and the American Red Cross today announced that they will again team up to sponsor Florida Severe Weather Awareness Week from January 31 – February 4, 2011. The annual public awareness campaign includes a poster and video public service announcement contest.

"Florida Severe Weather Awareness Week is an important time to educate our residents and visitors about the natural hazards that may affect the Sunshine State,” said Director David Halstead of the Florida Division of Emergency Management. “We appreciate this strong partnership with the American Red Cross and their commitment to ensuring Floridians are prepared for any disaster that may occur.”

During each day of the Week, a different weather event that may affect Florida will be highlighted:

Monday, January 31: Lightning
Tuesday, February 1: Marine Hazards and Rip Currents
Wednesday, February 2: Tornadoes and Thunderstorms
Thursday, February 3: Hurricanes and Flooding
Friday, February 4: Temperature Extremes and Wildfires

“We are excited to once again partner with the Division of Emergency Management on the annual poster contest,” said Karen Hagan, Florida Disaster Officer for the American Red Cross. “These types of outreach efforts to get our youth involved in disaster preparedness activities are an important step in building a culture of preparedness in Florida.”

Annual Poster Contest

Fourth and fifth graders in all of Florida’s 67 school districts as well as students who attend private schools or are home-schooled are invited to participate in the statewide poster contest. All entries must be postmarked on or before FRIDAY, JANUARY 7, 2011 and must arrive at the American Red Cross in Tallahassee no later than MONDAY, JANUARY 10, 2011. Winners will be notified by phone. The winners' artwork is scheduled to be displayed in the State Emergency Operations Center during the first full week of February 2011. Prizes will include tickets for the winner and their family to Walt Disney World, weather radios and many other exciting things to be announced soon. For complete contest rules go to www.FloridaDisaster.org/SWAW/2011.

Annual Video PSA Contest

Florida middle and high school students in grades 6-8 and 9-12, including students who attend private schools or are home-schooled are invited to produce a 30-second public service announcement (PSA) incorporating a safety or preparedness message about one of the following topics: Hurricane Preparedness, Flood Safety or Building a Disaster Supply Kit.

Final digital videos must be mastered as a DVD for submission to the Division. All entries must be postmarked on or before FRIDAY, JANUARY 7, 2011 and must arrive at the Florida Division of Emergency Management in Tallahassee no later than MONDAY, JANUARY 10, 2011. For complete contest rules and topic information, go to www.FloridaDisaster.org/SWAW/2011.

There will be one individual or group (limit four people per group) winner chosen for both middle school and high school-level videos. The winning video(s) will be professionally re-produced for broadcast use by the Division of Emergency Management in their statewide public awareness campaign. A production team will come to the winner(s) hometown and will spend a full day shooting the winning PSA, with the winner(s) acting as the project director. Additional prizes will include tickets for the winner and their family to Walt Disney World, weather radios and many other exciting things to be announced soon.

Winners will be announced on January 29, 2011, at a kick-off event for Severe Weather Awareness Week in Central Florida. Winners unable to attend this event will be mailed their additional prizes.

These contests are part of an annual public awareness campaign that also includes the statewide Tornado Drill to be conducted by the National Weather Service Offices in Florida at 10:10 a.m. Eastern Time (9:10 a.m. Central Time), on Wednesday, February 2, 2011.

For more information on Florida’s 2011 Severe Weather Awareness Week go to www.FloridaDisaster.org/SWAW/2011. For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsertinfo or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

STATE OFFICIALS URGE SOUTH AND EAST CENTRAL FLORIDA RESIDENTS TO PREPARE TODAY FOR ANTICIPATED IMPACTS FROM TROPICAL STORM NICOLE

2010-09-29T13:07:00.002-04:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging residents and visitors in South and East Central Florida to be extremely cautious when using area roadways and when near local canals, rivers, and other water bodies as rain bands from Tropical Storm Nicole affect the area both today and tomorrow. The State Emergency Operations Center will return to a Level 3 activation effective 1 p.m. today, but will continue to monitor and support counties that may be impacted.

“Though the system has now been named Tropical Storm Nicole, the official forecast track keeps the center of the storm east of Florida, with no anticipated landfall,” said David Halstead, Director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management. “South and East Central Florida residents should prepare for heavy rainfall and possible flooding from this system.”

There is also the potential for isolated tornadoes and gusty winds. All residents and visitors should remember to “Turn Around, Don’t Drown” when approaching a flooded roadway, as only six inches of moving water can cause drivers to lose control of a vehicle.

All Tropical Storm Watches and Warnings for the state of Florida have been discontinued. However, a Flood Watch remains in effect for Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach counties through 8 p.m. tonight. There is also a Flood Watch in effect for Indian River, St. Lucie, Martin, Okeechobee, Brevard, Osceola, Orange, and Seminole counties through 5 p.m. today.

To avoid getting caught in a flood, follow these safety tips:

- A NOAA All-Hazards Weather Radio is one of the best ways to receive warnings from the National Weather Service. Monitor the NOAA Weather Radio or your favorite news source for vital weather-related information.
- If flooding occurs, get to higher ground. Do not enter areas subject to flooding, including: dips, low spots, canals, ditches, etc.
- Avoid already flooded areas, especially if the water is flowing fast. Do not attempt to cross flowing streams.
- Road beds may be washed out under flood waters. NEVER drive through flooded roadways.
- Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams and washes, particularly during threatening conditions.
- Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.

SOUTH FLORIDA RESIDENTS URGED TO USE CAUTION AS TROPICAL DEPRESSION 16 BRINGS HEAVY RAIN AND THE POTENTIAL FOR FLOODING

2010-09-28T13:38:00.002-04:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging residents and visitors in the South Florida region to use extreme caution near local canals and rivers and on area roadways as Tropical Depression 16 is forecast to impact the area today and tomorrow. The system will likely bring the threat for heavy rainfall and flooding and the National Hurricane Center’s Hurricane Hunter aircraft is scheduled to investigate the system this afternoon to determine if a tropical storm has formed. The State Emergency Operations Center is activated to a Level 2 or partial activation to support counties that may be impacted.

“Though this system is unlikely to develop into a hurricane, it is important to remember that a storm doesn’t have to be a hurricane to cause loss of life and devastating property damage,” said David Halstead, Director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management. “It is vital that residents and visitors in South Florida remember the phrase “Turn Around, Don’t Drown” when approaching a flooded roadway and heed all warnings from the National Weather Service and local officials.”

A Tropical Storm Warning has been issued for the Florida coast from Jupiter Inlet south to East Cape Sable and for all of the Florida Keys. A Tropical Storm Warning means that tropical storm conditions are expected somewhere within the warning area within 36 hours. A Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for areas north of Jupiter Inlet to Sebastian Inlet and north of East Cape Sable to Chokoloskee, Florida. A Tropical Storm Watch means that tropical storm conditions are possible within the watch area within 48 hours.

A Flood Watch is in effect until 2 p.m. on Wednesday for Broward, Collier, Miami-Dade, Palm Beach and mainland Monroe counties. A Flood Watch means that there is a potential for flooding based on current forecasts. Residents should monitor forecasts and be alert for possible flooding conditions.

To avoid getting caught in a flood, follow these safety tips:

- A NOAA All-Hazards Weather Radio is one of the best ways to receive warnings from the National Weather Service. Monitor the NOAA Weather Radio or your favorite news source for vital weather-related information.
- If flooding occurs, get to higher ground. Get out of areas subject to flooding, including dips, low spots, canals, ditches, etc.
- Avoid areas already flooded, especially if the water is flowing fast. Do not attempt to cross flowing streams.
- Road beds may be washed out under flood waters. NEVER drive through flooded roadways.
- Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams and washes, particularly during threatening conditions.
- Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.

HIGH RISK OF DANGEROUS RIP CURRENTS EXPECTED THIS WEEKEND FOR CENTRAL AND SOUTHEAST FLORIDA BEACHES

2010-09-24T17:30:00.000-04:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging beachgoers along the Atlantic coast from Volusia County south to Miami-Dade County to use caution this weekend as a high risk of dangerous rip currents is expected. There is also a moderate risk of rip currents for beaches from Nassau to Flagler counties. When red flags are flying, beachgoers need to be aware that swimming in the Atlantic Ocean can be dangerous.

“Persistent onshore winds and large ocean swells will cause a high risk of dangerous rip currents along Central and Southeast Florida beaches this weekend,” Deputy State Meteorologist Michelle Palmer said. “We strongly urge beachgoers to heed local officials’ warnings and stay out of the water where red flags are flying.”

A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water that runs perpendicular to the beach, out into the ocean. These currents may extend 200 to 2,500 feet (61 to 762 meters) lengthwise, but they are typically less than 30 feet (9 meters) wide. Also, rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster and are not always identifiable to the average beachgoer.

In Florida, rip currents kill more people annually than thunderstorms, hurricanes and tornadoes combined. They are the number-one concern for beach lifeguards. According to the United States Lifesaving Association, 80 percent of surf beach rescues are attributed to rip currents. The greatest safety precaution that can be taken is to recognize the danger of rip currents and always remember to swim at beaches with lifeguards.

When at the beach:
Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches.
Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify hazards. Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake. Also, never swim alone.
Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.
Consider using polarized sunglasses when at the beach. They will help you to spot signatures of rip currents by cutting down glare and reflected sunlight off the ocean’s surface.
Pay especially close attention to children and elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.

If caught in a rip current:
Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
Never fight against the current.
Think of it like a treadmill that cannot be turned off, which you need to step to the side of.
Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arm and yelling for help.

If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:
Get help from a lifeguard.
If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.
Throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.
Yell instructions on how to escape.
Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.

Follow safe boating practices:
Have a VHF Marine Band Radio and NOAA Weather Radio on board.
Check the marine forecast well ahead of time.
Know the limitations of your boat. If small craft advisories or gale warnings are issued, you should postpone travel.
Be sure everyone aboard is wearing a life jacket.
File a float plan at your marina.
Thunderstorms and weather related hazards form quickly. Never let these storms cut off your route back to land.

Beachgoers who want to learn more about rip currents can visit www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov. Boaters can go to www.srh.noaa.gov/wml to check the current marine conditions and updated forecasts. For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsertinfo or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

FLORIDA EMERGENCY MANAGERS ENCOURAGE ALL RESIDENTS AND VISITORS TO MONITOR TROPICAL DEVELOPMENTS THIS WEEKEND

2010-09-24T15:29:00.000-04:00

Division of Emergency Management (DEM) officials are encouraging Florida residents and visitors to closely monitor the progress of the current tropical system in the Caribbean Sea and to update their family disaster plans and supply kits. No official forecasts place Florida in the path of any tropical systems at this time, but favorable conditions for rapid tropical development and strengthening do exist in the region.

“Though none of the current tropical systems are a threat to Florida, they have the potential to organize and intensify quickly,” said Florida Division of Emergency Management Director David Halstead. “Our team will closely monitor the active tropical situation in the Caribbean Sea and take any necessary preparatory steps to protect Floridians. I strongly encourage everyone to follow this storm closely through the weekend and to take this opportunity to review and update their family and business disaster plans and supply kits.”

Based on historical trends, September is among the most active times in the Atlantic Hurricane Season. Florida already experienced a tropical impact in July, when Tropical Storm Bonnie made landfall in the Florida Keys and parts of South Florida. While no significant injuries or damage to infrastructure were reported as a result of that system, the storm should serve as a reminder that all Floridians should develop a disaster survival plan and maintain an emergency supply kit.

“As September ends, tropical systems are more likely to form and develop quickly in the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico, resulting in less preparation time for the Gulf States,” said Deputy State Meteorologist Michelle Palmer. “Floridians should remember the damage caused by Hurricane Wilma in 2005, a late-season system that after gaining Tropical Storm status in the Caribbean reached Category 5 Hurricane strength within 24 hours.”

The Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 through November 30. For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsertinfo or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

CONTINUED HIGH RISK OF DANGEROUS RIP CURRENTS EXPECTED THIS WEEK FOR ALL OF FLORIDA’S EAST COAST BEACHES

2010-09-20T12:54:00.001-04:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are again urging beachgoers along the Atlantic coast from Nassau County south to Miami-Dade County to use caution as a high risk of dangerous rip currents is expected. There is also a High Surf Advisory in effect in Nassau, Duval, St. Johns, Flagler, Volusia, Brevard, Indian River, St. Lucie and Martin counties for large waves of five to nine feet. When red flags are flying beachgoers need to be aware that swimming in the Atlantic Ocean can be dangerous.

“Beachgoers and surfers along the entire Florida East coast should be very cautious as strong onshore winds in combination with lingering ocean swells from distant Hurricane Igor may produce dangerous surf conditions for much of this week,” State Meteorologist Amy Godsey said. “Numerous rescues were reported over the weekend along Florida’s Atlantic coast and we strongly urge beachgoers to check the rip current outlook and stay out of the water when red flags are posted.”

A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water that runs perpendicular to the beach, out into the ocean. These currents may extend 200 to 2,500 feet (61 to 762 meters) lengthwise, but they are typically less than 30 feet (9 meters) wide. Also, rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster and are not always identifiable to the average beachgoer.

In Florida, rip currents kill more people annually than thunderstorms, hurricanes and tornadoes combined. They are the number-one concern for beach lifeguards. According to the United States Lifesaving Association, 80 percent of surf beach rescues are attributed to rip currents. The greatest safety precaution that can be taken is to recognize the danger of rip currents and always remember to swim at beaches with lifeguards.

When at the beach:
- Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
- Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches.
- Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify hazards. Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
- Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake. Also, never swim alone.
- Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.
- Consider using polarized sunglasses when at the beach. They will help you to spot signatures of rip currents by cutting down glare and reflected sunlight off the ocean’s surface.
- Pay especially close attention to children and elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.

If caught in a rip current:
- Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
- Never fight against the current.
- Think of it like a treadmill that cannot be turned off, which you need to step to the side of.
- Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
- If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
- If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arm and yelling for help.

If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:
- Get help from a lifeguard.
- If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.
- Throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.
- Yell instructions on how to escape.
- Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.

Follow safe boating practices:
- Have a VHF Marine Band Radio and NOAA Weather Radio on board.
- Check the marine forecast well ahead of time.
- Know the limitations of your boat. If small craft advisories or gale warnings are issued, you should postpone travel.
- Be sure everyone aboard is wearing a life jacket.
- File a float plan at your marina.
- Thunderstorms and weather related hazards form quickly. Never let these storms cut off your route back to land.

Beachgoers who want to learn more about rip currents can visit www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov. Boaters can go to www.srh.noaa.gov/wml to check the current marine conditions and updated forecasts.

HIGH RISK OF DANGEROUS RIP CURRENTS EXPECTED THIS WEEKEND FOR ALL OF FLORIDA’S EAST COAST BEACHES

2010-09-17T09:12:00.001-04:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging beachgoers along the entire Atlantic coast from Nassau County south to Miami-Dade County to use extreme caution this weekend as a high risk of dangerous rip currents is expected Friday through Sunday due to ocean swells caused by distant Hurricane Igor. When red flags are flying beachgoers need to be aware that swimming in the Atlantic Ocean can be dangerous. Large waves offshore will also be dangerous for boaters.

“Area beach conditions will be rough and rip currents can be life-threatening to anyone entering the water along Florida’s East Coast this weekend,” State Meteorologist Amy Godsey said. “We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable Florida beach and boating experience. Beachgoers and surfers should check the rip current outlook and remember the warning flag signs before going into the water.”

A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water that runs perpendicular to the beach, out into the ocean. These currents may extend 200 to 2,500 feet (61 to 762 meters) lengthwise, but they are typically less than 30 feet (9 meters) wide. Also, rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster and are not always identifiable to the average beachgoer.

In Florida, rip currents kill more people annually than thunderstorms, hurricanes and tornadoes combined. They are the number-one concern for beach lifeguards. According to the United States Lifesaving Association, 80 percent of surf beach rescues are attributed to rip currents. The greatest safety precaution that can be taken is to recognize the danger of rip currents and always remember to swim at beaches with lifeguards.

When at the beach:
Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches.
Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify hazards. Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake. Also, never swim alone.
Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.
Consider using polarized sunglasses when at the beach. They will help you to spot signatures of rip currents by cutting down glare and reflected sunlight off the ocean’s surface.
Pay especially close attention to children and elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.

If caught in a rip current:
Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
Never fight against the current.
Think of it like a treadmill that cannot be turned off, which you need to step to the side of.
Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arm and yelling for help.

If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:
Get help from a lifeguard.
If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.
Throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.
Yell instructions on how to escape.
Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.

Follow safe boating practices:
Have a VHF Marine Band Radio and NOAA Weather Radio on board.
Check the marine forecast well ahead of time.
Know the limitations of your boat. If small craft advisories or gale warnings are issued, you should postpone travel.
Be sure everyone aboard is wearing a life jacket.
File a float plan at your marina.
Thunderstorms and weather related hazards form quickly. Never let these storms cut off your route back to land.
Beachgoers who want to learn more about rip currents can visit www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov. Boaters can go to www.srh.noaa.gov/wml to check the current marine conditions and updated forecasts. For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsertinfo or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

Statement by Director David Halstead Remembering Emergency Responders of the Terrorist Attacks on September 11, 2001

2010-09-10T17:02:00.001-04:00

“Florida’s entire emergency management community will remember the brave men and women who responded to the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. As the events of that fateful day unfolded, our entire country watched as our heroic first-responder friends and colleagues charged into the disaster with one mission: to save lives. We will never forget the courage and sacrifice of the police officers, firefighters, emergency managers, emergency medical service and health care providers, our military, and all others who served their nation in its time of need. Their response to the call, their commitment to their duty, and their unwavering devotion to serve will continue to inspire us all for generations to come.”

SEPTEMBER 10th MARKS THE HISTORICAL PEAK OF HURRICANE SEASON

2010-09-10T15:00:00.001-04:00

TALLAHASSEE-- Today marks the annual historical peak of the Atlantic Hurricane Season and Florida emergency management officials are urging residents and visitors to prepare for further anticipated tropical developments. While no system is currently threatening the state, above average conditions for storm development can lead to rapid tropical strengthening and movement in the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico. To date, the National Hurricane Center has identified nine named tropical systems, three of which reached hurricane status.

“Though our state is not presently threatened by any tropical system, now is a good time to remind everyone that the height of hurricane season is upon us,” said David Halstead, director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management. “It is vital that all residents and visitors have a plan for what to do should a hurricane threaten their community. I encourage everyone to visit http://www.floridadisaster.org/ today to create or update your family and business disaster survival plan.”

Florida is the hurricane capital of the United States, with more hurricanes having made landfall than any other state. In July, Tropical Storm Bonnie made landfall in the Florida Keys and parts of South Florida. While no significant injuries or damage to infrastructure were reported as a result of this system, the storm should serve as a reminder that all Floridians should develop a disaster survival plan and maintain an emergency supply kit.

Hurricanes are one of nature’s most powerful forces. The powerful winds and heavy rains of some hurricanes have destroyed entire communities in Florida. Strong tropical storms can also cause severe damage, flooding, and injuries. Proper planning is crucial to protect individuals, families, and businesses, and special preparation should be made for friends and family members who are elderly, disabled, and have special needs.

The Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 through November 30.

Statement by Florida Division of Emergency Management Director David Halstead Regarding the Oil Rig Fire off the Coast of Louisiana

2010-09-02T14:21:00.001-04:00

“The State of Florida Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) has been closely monitoring the reports regarding the oil rig fire on Vermilion Block 380 off the coast of Louisiana. The Coast Guard is reporting that the facility is a fixed platform and not a floating rig (like the Deepwater Horizon) and it is not believed that the platform does any drilling. The State Watch Office located in the SEOC operates 24 hours daily and will continue to monitor this situation. The SEOC is currently at a Level 3 with Operations and Plans staff monitoring the situation and providing updates as needed.”

HIGH RISK OF DANGEROUS RIP CURRENTS EXPECTED FOR ALL OF FLORIDA’S EAST COAST BEACHES FOR THE REMAINDER OF THE WEEK

2010-09-01T10:49:00.000-04:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are again urging beachgoers along the entire Atlantic coast from Nassau County south to Miami-Dade County to use extreme caution Wednesday through Friday as a high risk of dangerous rip currents is expected due to ocean swells caused by Hurricane Earl. The National Weather Service has also issued a High Surf Advisory for beaches from Nassau County south through Martin County. A High Surf Advisory means that high waves may produce dangerous surf and minor beach erosion. When red flags are flying beachgoers need to be aware that swimming in the Atlantic Ocean can be dangerous, as large breaking waves of 3-8 feet could easily knock a person off their feet and make them especially susceptible to a rip current.

“Large ocean swells from Hurricane Earl are forecast peak today and persist through Friday, particularly along East Central and Northeast Florida beaches,” said State Meteorologist Amy Godsey. “These swells will create dangerous rip currents that could be life-threatening to those who enter the surf unprepared.”

A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water that runs perpendicular to the beach, out into the ocean. These currents may extend 200 to 2,500 feet (61 to 762 meters) lengthwise, but they are typically less than 30 feet (9 meters) wide. Also, rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster and are not always identifiable to the average beachgoer.

In Florida, rip currents kill more people annually than thunderstorms, hurricanes and tornadoes combined. They are the number-one concern for beach lifeguards. According to the United States Lifesaving Association, 80 percent of surf beach rescues are attributed to rip currents. The greatest safety precaution that can be taken is to recognize the danger of rip currents and always remember to swim at beaches with lifeguards.

When at the beach:
- Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
- Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches.
- Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify hazards.
- Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
- Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake. Also, never swim alone.
- Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.
- Consider using polarized sunglasses when at the beach. They will help you to spot signatures of rip currents by cutting down glare and reflected sunlight off the ocean’s surface.
- Pay especially close attention to children and elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.

If caught in a rip current:
- Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
- Never fight against the current.
- Think of it like a treadmill that cannot be turned off, which you need to step to the side of.
- Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
- If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
- If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arm and yelling for help.

If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:
- Get help from a lifeguard.
- If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.
- Throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.
- Yell instructions on how to escape.
- Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.

Beachgoers who want to learn more about rip currents can visit www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov.

Governor Crist Proclaims September as Florida Preparedness Month

2010-09-01T10:27:00.000-04:00

Governor Charlie Crist today proclaimed September 2010 as ‘Florida Preparedness Month.’ In recognition of the month, the Florida Division of Emergency Management will be partnering with more than 3,200 organizations across the U.S. to help create a culture of disaster preparedness.

“With the tropics becoming more active, and as we approach the historical peak of the Atlantic Hurricane Season, it is vital that all of Florida’s residents and visitors take the time now to prepare their families, homes and businesses for any disaster that may occur,” said Governor Crist. “This month is the perfect time to learn about how to prepare for the potential hazards in your area and to create your disaster plan to ensure you are ready to protect yourself and your loved ones.”

In addition to participating in Florida’s Preparedness Month, the Division is participating in the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Ad Council’s seventh annual National Preparedness Ready Campaign, which will focus on encouraging Americans to work together to take concrete actions toward emergency preparedness.

“This is an excellent opportunity for all residents to get involved in local efforts such as Citizen Corps, Community Emergency Response Teams, and local faith and community-based organizations,” said Division of Emergency Management Director David Halstead. “By participating in these organizations, Floridians can help prepare for future disasters and learn how to build resiliency in our communities.”

The Division of Emergency Management has created an online program to assist Floridians in creating their family or business disaster plan. Visit www.FloridaDisaster.org and www.KidsGetaPlan.com to get started today!

GOVERNOR CRIST COMMENDS APPROVAL OF FEDERAL FUNDING FOR STRUCTURAL HARDENING INITIATIVES AT FLORIDA DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CENTERS

2010-08-31T10:39:00.000-04:00

Governor Charlie Crist today commended the approval of federal funding for structural hardening projects at domestic violence centers throughout Florida. The disaster mitigation initiatives will make domestic violence centers more resistant to severe weather and tropical systems through various building upgrades and enhance the safety of residents during weather-related emergencies.

“The structural strengthening of targeted domestic violence centers throughout Florida will be a hallmark achievement in Florida’s efforts to prepare for severe weather and hurricanes,” said Governor Charlie Crist. “These projects will help us make great strides in our collective effort to ensure that some of our most vulnerable fellow Floridians are protected during emergencies.”

The wind retrofit project will be funded by 75 percent grant through the federal Hazard Mitigation Grant Program ($1,689,457) and a 25 percent matching grant of state funds ($563,152). The total cost of the project is $2,252,609.

“Severe winds are one of nature’s most destructive forces,” said David Halstead, director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management. “By taking these proactive steps to mitigate against the effects of severe weather and tropical systems, we will greatly enhance the safety and security of these vitally important facilities during weather-related emergencies.”

The mitigation project is part of an ongoing effort on behalf of state, federal, and local emergency management partners to ensure that the effects of future disasters are properly prepared for. Recently, the Florida Division of Emergency Management received approval from the Federal Emergency Management Agency for its enhanced mitigation plan, which enables the state to receive more federal money for disaster mitigation projects.

"This critical project ensures women and children are not forced to leave a safe environment during hurricanes and other weather-related disasters," said Tiffany Carr, President and CEO of the Florida Coalition Against Domestic Violence. "Governor Crist's support of the hardening project will increase the safety of Florida's most vulnerable individuals and ultimately save lives. As always, I applaud Governor Crist's strong stand on strengthening penalties for perpetrators and strengthening services for victims of domestic violence."

For more information on mitigation techniques and to GET A PLAN! for disaster preparedness, please visit www.FloridaDisaster.org.

HIGH RISK OF DANGEROUS RIP CURRENTS EXPECTED THIS WEEK FOR ALL OF FLORIDA’S EAST COAST BEACHES

2010-08-30T10:23:00.000-04:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are again urging beachgoers along the entire Atlantic coast from Nassau County south to Miami-Dade County to use extreme caution this week as a high risk of dangerous rip currents is expected through Friday due to ocean swells caused by distant tropical systems. When red flags are flying beachgoers need to be aware that swimming in the Atlantic Ocean can be dangerous.

“Area beach conditions will be very rough and rip currents can be life-threatening to anyone entering the water along Florida’s East Coast this week,” State Meteorologist Amy Godsey said. “Beachgoers and surfers should check the rip current outlook and remember the warning flag signs before going into the water.”

A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water that runs perpendicular to the beach, out into the ocean. These currents may extend 200 to 2,500 feet (61 to 762 meters) lengthwise, but they are typically less than 30 feet (9 meters) wide. Also, rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster and are not always identifiable to the average beachgoer.

In Florida, rip currents kill more people annually than thunderstorms, hurricanes and tornadoes combined. They are the number-one concern for beach lifeguards. According to the United States Lifesaving Association, 80 percent of surf beach rescues are attributed to rip currents. The greatest safety precaution that can be taken is to recognize the danger of rip currents and always remember to swim at beaches with lifeguards.

When at the beach:
- Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
- Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches.
- Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify hazards.
- Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
- Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake. Also, never swim alone.
- Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.
- Consider using polarized sunglasses when at the beach. They will help you to spot signatures of rip currents by cutting down glare and reflected sunlight off the ocean’s surface.
- Pay especially close attention to children and elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.

If caught in a rip current:
- Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
- Never fight against the current.
- Think of it like a treadmill that cannot be turned off, which you need to step to the side of.
- Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
- If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
- If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arm and yelling for help.

If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:
- Get help from a lifeguard.
- If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.
- Throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.
- Yell instructions on how to escape.
- Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.

Beachgoers who want to learn more about rip currents can visit www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov.

HIGH RISK OF DANGEROUS RIP CURRENTS EXPECTED THIS WEEK FOR FLORIDA EAST COAST BEACHES

2010-08-28T16:45:00.000-04:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging beachgoers along the Atlantic coast in Nassau, Duval, St. Johns, Flagler, Volusia, Brevard, Indian River, St. Lucie and Martin counties to use caution this weekend and next week as a high risk of dangerous rip currents is expected. There is also a moderate risk of rip currents for Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade counties this weekend. When red flags are flying beachgoers need to be aware that swimming in the Atlantic Ocean can be dangerous.

“Beachgoers and surfers along the entire Florida East coast should be very cautious this week as ocean swells from distant tropical systems produce dangerous surf conditions for a prolonged period,” State Meteorologist Amy Godsey said. “We strongly urge beachgoers to check the rip current outlook and stay out of the water when red flags are posted.”

A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water that runs perpendicular to the beach, out into the ocean. These currents may extend 200 to 2,500 feet (61 to 762 meters) lengthwise, but they are typically less than 30 feet (9 meters) wide. Also, rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster and are not always identifiable to the average beachgoer.

In Florida, rip currents kill more people annually than thunderstorms, hurricanes and tornadoes combined. They are the number-one concern for beach lifeguards. According to the United States Lifesaving Association, 80 percent of surf beach rescues are attributed to rip currents. The greatest safety precaution that can be taken is to recognize the danger of rip currents and always remember to swim at beaches with lifeguards.

When at the beach:
- Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
- Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches.
- Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify hazards. - Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
- Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake. Also, never swim alone.
- Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.
- Consider using polarized sunglasses when at the beach. They will help you to spot signatures of rip currents by cutting down glare and reflected sunlight off the ocean’s surface.
- Pay especially close attention to children and elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.

If caught in a rip current:
- Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
- Never fight against the current.
- Think of it like a treadmill that cannot be turned off, which you need to step to the side of.
- Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
- If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
- If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arm and yelling for help.

If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:
- Get help from a lifeguard.
- If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.
- Throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.
- Yell instructions on how to escape.
- Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.

Beachgoers who want to learn more about rip currents can visit www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov.

HIGH RISK OF DANGEROUS RIP CURRENTS EXPECTED TODAY FOR NORTHWEST FLORIDA BEACHES

2010-08-17T11:33:00.000-04:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging beachgoers along the Gulf coast in Escambia, Santa Rosa and Okaloosa counties to use caution Tuesday as a high risk of dangerous rip currents is expected. When red flags are flying beachgoers need to be aware that swimming in the Gulf of Mexico can be dangerous.

“Beachgoers and surfers should be very cautious along the Northwest Florida coast today,” State Meteorologist Amy Godsey said. “We strongly urge beachgoers to check the rip current outlook and stay out of the water when red flags are posted.”

A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water that runs perpendicular to the beach, out into the ocean. These currents may extend 200 to 2,500 feet (61 to 762 meters) lengthwise, but they are typically less than 30 feet (9 meters) wide. Also, rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster and are not always identifiable to the average beachgoer.

In Florida, rip currents kill more people annually than thunderstorms, hurricanes and tornadoes combined. They are the number-one concern for beach lifeguards. According to the United States Lifesaving Association, 80 percent of surf beach rescues are attributed to rip currents. The greatest safety precaution that can be taken is to recognize the danger of rip currents and always remember to swim at beaches with lifeguards.

When at the beach:
- Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
- Never swim alone.
- Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake.
- Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches. If in doubt, don’t go out.
- Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify potential hazards. Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
- Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.
- Consider using polarized sunglasses when at the beach. They will help you to spot signatures of rip currents by cutting down glare and reflected sunlight off the ocean’s surface.
- Pay especially close attention to children and elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.

If caught in a rip current:
- Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
- Never fight against the current.
- Think of it like a treadmill that cannot be turned off, which you need to step to the side of.
- Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
- If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
- If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arm and yelling for help.

If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:
- Get help from a lifeguard.
- If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.
- Throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.
- Yell instructions on how to escape.
- Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.

Beachgoers who want to learn more about rip currents can visit www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov.

FLORIDA EMERGENCY MANAGERS URGE CAUTION THIS WEEKEND AS DANGEROUS HEAT INDICES ARE EXPECTED

2010-07-30T15:40:00.001-04:00

TALLAHASSEE- -Florida emergency management officials strongly urge residents and visitors to the Sunshine State to use caution this weekend as afternoon temperatures could climb near or over 100 degrees. Weekend forecast temperatures are expected to remain in the 95-100 degree range with heat indices of 105 -115 degrees from Escambia County east to Duval County.

“Temperatures will be dangerously high across all of North Florida this weekend,” said State Meteorologist Amy Godsey. “It is vital that our residents and visitors take extreme precaution and avoid extended hours in the afternoon sun when possible.”

The National Weather Service has issued heat advisories for all counties from the Florida Panhandle through the Northern Atlantic coast due to extremely dangerous heat indices which are expected to persist for several hours. Counties included in the Heat Advisory are: Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, Walton, Holmes, Washington, Bay, Jackson, Calhoun, Gulf, Gadsden, Liberty, Franklin, Leon, Wakulla, Madison, Taylor, Lafayette, Dixie, Hamilton, Suwannee, Columbia, Baker, Nassau and Duval. These advisories may extend across a majority of North Florida through the weekend.

What is the Heat Index?
Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, Florida is often influenced by tropical moisture, especially during the summer months. When high humidity values combine with high temperatures, our bodies think it is hotter than it actually is. This is called the heat index. The heat index is an accurate measure of how hot it really feels when relative humidity is added to the actual air temperature. When the heat index reaches more than 105 degrees Fahrenheit, conditions become dangerous for the general population.

A person can experience sunstroke, heat craps, heat exhaustion and even heatstroke if exposed to these conditions for a long period of time. The National Weather Service will issue heat advisories and warnings when the combination of heat and humidity causes the heat index to reach extreme levels.

Heat Safety Tips
- Dress for the heat. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect away some of the sun’s energy. It is also a good idea to wear a hat or to use an umbrella.
- Drink water. Carry water or juice with you and drink continuously even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which dehydrate the body.
- Eat small meals and eat more often. Avoid high-protein foods, which increase metabolic heat.
- Slow down and avoid strenuous activity. If you must do strenuous activity, do it during the coolest part of the day – morning hours between 4 and 7 a.m.
- Stay indoors when possible. If air conditioning is not available, stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine. Remember that electric fans do not cool, they simply circulate the air.
- Be a good neighbor. Check in on elderly residents in your neighborhood and those who do not have air conditioning.
- Don’t forget your pets. Make sure they have access to water, ventilation and shade.

Tropical Depression 3 Media Advisory - July 22, 2010

2010-07-22T14:47:00.001-04:00

MESSAGE OF THE DAY

“Residents across South Florida are urged to follow the progress of Tropical Depression Three, heed local advisories, and be prepared to implement their family disaster plans,” said David Halstead, Director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management. “All Floridians should continue to follow the activity in the tropics and take this time to update their plans and check their disaster survival kits.”

NEW INFORMATION- 11A.M.

o South Florida residents and visitors need to closely follow Tropical Depression Three and be prepared to implement their disaster plans.
o Mobile home residents and visitors need to heed any local evacuation orders, if issued.
o Mariners need to make preparations to secure their vessels in safe harbor.
o Residents should review their family disaster plans and ensure their disaster survival kits are fully stocked. Residents should also remember to plan for their pets.
o In light of Tropical Depression Three, supplemental Tier 3 boom is currently being removed from Escambia through Franklin counties and will be redeployed if further oil spill impacts are projected. Some Tier 1 and 2 boom is also being removed at the direction of Unified Command Mobile and Branch offices.

CURRENT SITUATION / STATE ACTIONS

o The National Hurricane Center has begun issuing advisories on newly formed Tropical Depression Three, located about 405 miles east-southeast of Key Largo, Florida.
o Maximum sustained winds are near 35mph and Tropical Depression Three is forecast to become Tropical Storm Bonnie later today.
o A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect along the South Florida coast between Golden Beach and Bonita Beach, which covers all of Miami-Dade, Monroe and Collier counties. Tropical Storm Watches are in effect along the east coast of Florida north of Golden Beach to Jupiter Inlet, which includes all of Broward and Palm Beach counties. A Tropical Storm Watch is also in effect for Lake Okeechobee.
o A Tropical Storm Warning means that tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39-73mph) are expected in the warning area within 36 hours. A Tropical Storm Watch means that tropical storm conditions are possible within the watch area generally within 48 hours.
o Heavy rainfall will likely be the greatest threat, with 2-4 inches possible across portions of southern Florida and the Treasure Coast, with higher amounts up to 6 inches possible in very localized areas.
o Ocean swells and high winds from the storm may also produce gusty winds, frequent and dangerous rip currents, and possibly isolated tornadoes.
o The official forecast from the National Hurricane Center brings the center of Tropical Depression Three into the Florida Straits on Friday, possibly making landfall near Key West Friday afternoon. The system will emerge into the southeastern Gulf of Mexico late Friday before turning northwest, making a second landfall as a tropical storm near southwestern Louisiana or eastern Texas in 3-4 days.
o The State EOC in Tallahassee is at a Level 1, or full activation in response to the Deepwater Horizon incident.

BE SMART, BE SAFE, BE A SURVIVOR! Go to www.FloridaDisaster.org today to create a personal or family disaster plan. All students, teachers and parents can find educational information and free downloadable materials at: www.KidsGetAPlan.com.

FLORIDA DEEPWATER HORIZON RESPONSE JULY 7, 2010

2010-07-07T11:14:00.000-04:00

HIGH RISK OF DANGEROUS RIP CURRENTS EXPECTED TODAY THROUGH THURSDAY ALONG THE PANHANDLE COAST

2010-07-06T13:02:00.001-04:00

Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging residents and visitors to the beaches of Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, Walton, Bay, Gulf and Franklin counties to use caution today through Thursday as a moderate to high risk of dangerous rip currents is expected. When red flags are flying beachgoers need to be aware that swimming in the Gulf of Mexico can be dangerous.

“Beachgoers and surfers should be very cautious along the Northwest Florida coast this week,” said State Meteorologist Amy Godsey. “Strong winds combined with increasing swells from the tropical system in the southern Gulf of Mexico will result in 4 to 6 foot seas near the coast and make beach conditions very dangerous along the Florida Panhandle and western Florida Big Bend coastline through at least Thursday. We strongly urge beachgoers to heed local officials’ warnings and stay out of the water where red flags are flying."

A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water running perpendicular to the beach, out into the ocean. These currents may extend 200 to 2,500 feet (61 to 762 meters) lengthwise, but they are typically less than 30 feet (9 meters) wide. Rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster. In Florida, rip currents kill more people annually than thunderstorms, hurricanes and tornadoes combined. They are the number-one concern for beach lifeguards. According to the United States Lifesaving Association, 80 percent of surf beach rescues are attributed to rip currents.
When at the beach:
Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
Never swim alone.
Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake.
Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches. If in doubt, don’t go out.
Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify potential hazards. Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.
Consider using polarized sunglasses when at the beach. They will help you to spot signatures of rip currents by cutting down glare and reflected sunlight off the ocean’s surface.
Pay especially close attention to children and elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.

If caught in a rip current:
Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
Never fight against the current.
Think of it like a treadmill that cannot be turned off, which you need to step to the side of.
Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arm and yelling for help.

If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:
Get help from a lifeguard.
If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.
Throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.
Yell instructions on how to escape.
Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.

Beachgoers who want to learn more about rip currents can visit www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov. For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, please visit: www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsertinfo or join our blog at: http://flsertinfo.blogspot.com/.

FLORIDA DEEPWATER HORIZON RESPONSE JULY 6, 2010

2010-07-06T11:29:00.000-04:00

HIGH RISK OF DANGEROUS RIP CURRENTS EXPECTED TODAY THROUGH FRIDAY FOR SOUTHEAST FLORIDA BEACHES

2010-06-23T15:47:00.001-04:00

TALLAHASSEE- -Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging beachgoers along the Atlantic coast in Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade counties to use caution Wednesday through Friday as a high risk of dangerous rip currents is expected. In addition, a moderate risk of rip currents is expected for the Atlantic coast between Martin County and Nassau County. When red flags are flying beachgoers need to be aware that swimming in the Atlantic Ocean can be dangerous.

“Beachgoers and surfers should be very cautious along the Southeast Florida coast this week,” State Meteorologist Amy Godsey said. “We strongly urge beachgoers to check the rip current outlook and stay out of the water when red flags are posted.”

A rip current is a narrow, powerful current of water that runs perpendicular to the beach, out into the ocean. These currents may extend 200 to 2,500 feet (61 to 762 meters) lengthwise, but they are typically less than 30 feet (9 meters) wide. Also, rip currents can often move at more than 5 miles per hour (8 kilometers per hour) or faster and are not always identifiable to the average beachgoer.

In Florida, rip currents kill more people annually than thunderstorms, hurricanes and tornadoes combined. They are the number-one concern for beach lifeguards. According to the United States Lifesaving Association, 80 percent of surf beach rescues are attributed to rip currents. The greatest safety precaution that can be taken is to recognize the danger of rip currents and always remember to swim at beaches with lifeguards.

When at the beach:
• Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach.
• Never swim alone.
• Learn how to swim in the surf. It's not the same as swimming in a pool or lake.
• Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches. If in doubt, don’t go out.
• Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained to identify potential hazards. Ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water. This is part of their job.
• Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures. Consider using polarized sunglasses when at the beach.
• They will help you to spot signatures of rip currents by cutting down glare and reflected sunlight off the ocean’s surface.
• Pay especially close attention to children and elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.

Identifying a possible rip current:
• A channel of churning, choppy water.
• An area of having a notable difference in water color.
• A line of sea foam, sea weed or other debris moving steadily seaward.
• A break in the incoming wave pattern.

If caught in a rip current:
• Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
• Never fight against the current.
• Think of it like a treadmill that cannot be turned off, which you need to step to the side of.
• Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
• If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
• If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arm and yelling for help.

If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:
• Get help from a lifeguard.
• If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.
• Throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.
• Yell instructions on how to escape.
• Remember, many people drown while trying to save someone else from a rip current.

Beachgoers who want to learn more about rip currents can visit www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov.

FLORIDA DEEPWATER HORIZON RESPONSE JUNE 16, 2010

2010-06-16T11:53:00.001-04:00

Under the leadership of Governor Charlie Crist, the State Emergency Response Team and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) are actively coordinating and responding to the Deepwater Horizon incident.

The following is a summary of state and BP response actions to date, as well as tips for residents and visitors to take precautions both pre and post-landfall.

Landfall Reports and Predictions:

· On June 15, dime to five inch-sized tar balls and tar patties were found in widely scattered areas of Northwest Florida. The heaviest impacts have been seen from Escambia County to Santa Rosa County.

· Perdido Pass and Pensacola Pass will be closed with the tide to prevent oil from entering inland waters. Boom will be deployed across each Pass at flood tide (water coming in) and removed at ebb tide (water going out).

o Boaters in areas where skimming is being conducted, or where boom has been set, have been requested to maintain no-wake speeds.

o Based on oil activity recently, the United States Coast Guard's Captain of the Port for Sector Mobile authorized the official closure of Perdido Pass and Pensacola Pass. These waterways will be manned to allow access to necessary vessel traffic. Perdido Pass and Pensacola Pass will be open for vessel traffic during low tide. See NOAA tide predictions.

o Boat traffic needing access in or out of boom locations, should call 1-850-736-2261.

o A flashing light has been attached to all boom to increase visibility to boaters.

· According to NOAA projections, additional impacts are expected throughout northwest Florida within the next 72 hours due to onshore winds.

· The majority of impacts to Florida’s shoreline will likely be highly weathered, in the form of tar balls, oil sheen, tar mats or mousse – a pudding-like oil/water mixture that could be brown, rust or orange in color.

· Observations by NOAA continue to indicate no significant amounts of oil moving toward the Loop Current. The Loop Current Ring, a circular current which was formerly part of the Loop Current and contains a small portion of oil slick in the form of light sheens, has detached again from the main Loop Current.

o There have been no reports of Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill-related oil products reaching the shore beyond the northwest Florida region. There is no indication that the rest of the state will have impacts from weathered oil products within the next 72 hours.

· Learn more at the NOAA website. If oil is sighted on Florida’s coastline report it to the State Warning Point at 1-877-2-SAVE-FL (1-877-272-8335) or by dialing #DEP from most cell phones.

On Site Actions:

· Current projections estimate Deepwater Horizon’s discharge at 35,000 to 60,000 barrels per day. Learn more.

· BP has placed a Lower Marine Riser Package (LMRP) Cap Containment System in an attempt to contain the leak and capture a substantial amount of the leaking oil. On June 15, 10,440 barrels of oil were captured from the LMRP Cap Containment System. BP is continuing efforts to drill two relief wells.

State Actions:

· The State Emergency Operations Center is activated at Level 1.

· On June 15, Deepwater Horizon Unified Command directed the establishment of three Deputy Incident Commanders to lead oil impact mitigation and cleanup efforts in Alabama, Mississippi and Florida. In addition, Deepwater Horizon Unified Command directed the creation of an Incident Management Team to be located in Tallahassee. This team will report to Mobile, Alabama, Incident Command Post. Learn more.

· On June 13, the FWC issued an executive order to temporarily close a portion of coastal state waters offshore of Escambia County to the harvest of saltwater fish, crabs and shrimp.

o The closure includes state waters from the beaches out nine nautical miles into the Gulf from the Alabama line east to the Pensacola Beach water tower. Interior bays and estuaries remain open to fishing.

o This area covers approximately 23 miles of Florida’s coastline in Escambia County, where oil spill is now present.

o Recreational catch-and-release fishing is still allowed as long as saltwater fish are not harvested or possessed in the closed area. Oysters, clams and mussels are not included in the closure, because they are not expected to be affected by oil in the area. Learn more.

· On June 10, DEP issued an Amended Emergency Final Order to accelerate preparedness and restoration in the counties under the Governor’s state-of-emergency Executive Orders.

· On June 10, Deepwater Horizon Unified Command announced the activation of the Florida Peninsula Command Post in Miami. Learn more.

· Governor Crist has issued three Executive Orders since April 30, 2010 declaring a state of emergency in 26 coastal counties that may see impacts.

· DEP conducted water and sediment sampling to use as a baseline and is monitoring air quality data. Statewide air quality monitoring is conducted in coordination with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Learn more at http://www.airnow.gov/ or http://www.epa.gov/bpspill/.

o Air quality reports for June 15 revealed that air quality was considered good for ozone and moderate for fine particulate matter in northwest Florida. “Good” means the air quality is satisfactory and air pollution poses little or no risk. “Moderate” means air quality is acceptable for most people.

Boom Placement:

· Approximately 308,600 feet of boom has been placed in northwest Florida along the most sensitive areas and 56,050 feet is staged. Additionally, counties in the region are moving forward with supplemental booming plans. As of June 15, 227,560 feet of supplemental boom has been deployed or staged by Florida contractors.

· Placement of boom is based on where the oil is threatening, as well as each region’s area contingency plan.

Health Effects:

· The Florida Department of Health, in coordination with DEP and VISITFLORIDA has developed an online mapping resource that contains the most up-to-date health advisory information for Florida's beach waters. Visitors are encouraged to visit www.dep.state.fl.us/deepwaterhorizon/health.htm or www.visitflorida.com/florida_travel_advisory/.

· On June 8, Escambia County Health Department, in coordination with Escambia County Emergency Management and local officials posted a health advisory for the area extending from the Florida-Alabama state line to the entrance of the Perdido Unit, Gulf Islands National Seashore. Learn more.

· If residents or visitors see tar or oiled debris on the beach, DO NOT PICK IT UP. For most people, an occasional brief contact with a small amount of oil will do no harm, yet still it is not recommended. Learn more.

· For general health information questions regarding the oil-spill and exposure to oil spill products contact the Florida Poison Information Centers at 1-800-222-1222.

· DOH has compiled guidelines for managing stress and preventing heat related injuries for those impacted by the oil spill or involved in cleanup activities. Learn more.

Fisheries & Seafood:

· On June 8, NOAA adjusted the boundaries of the previously closed fishing area, opening 339 square miles off of northwest Florida, with the northern boundary now ending at the Florida federal-state water line on the east side of Choctawhatchee Bay. Learn more.

· While state waters off the coast of Escambia County are closed for the harvest of saltwater fish, crabs and shrimp, all other state waters remain open to recreational fishing.

· Fishermen who wish to contact BP about a claim should call 1-800-440-0858.

· To report oiled wildlife, please call 1-866-557-1401 and leave a message. Messages are checked hourly.

· For the safety of the public as well as the safety of animals, rescues should only be conducted by trained responders. Learn more.

Tourism:

· Through www.VISITFLORIDA.com, vacationers are able to view live Twitter feeds and read up-to-the-minute information on the status of any city or region in Florida. Learn more at http://www.visitflorida.com/florida_travel_advisory/.

· The Florida State Parks website, http://www.floridastateparks.org, is updated daily and will list any impacts. Learn more by calling 1-850-245-2157.

Tips for Homeowners:

· While the state appreciates the concern expressed by Floridians and the ingenuity of those seeking alternative measures to help protect the state’s shoreline, the following tips are offered to ensure that these measures are helpful and not harmful to Florida’s coasts, wildlife and water resources: Tips for homeowners.

Tips for Businesses and Consumers:

· The Attorney General’s fraud hotline is open to receive any reports of fraud or price gouging. The hotline is 1-866-966-7226.

· The Florida Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner gas price-gouging hotline is also operational. The toll-free hotline number is 1-800-HELP-FLA (1-800-435-7352).

· Coastal businesses should make loss of earnings claims for damages incurred as a result of the oil spill. Learn more at http://www.myfloridacfo.com/ or by calling 1-850-413-3089 or toll-free at 1-877-MY-FL-CFO (1-877-693-5236).

· To discuss spill related damage with BP representatives, please call the BP Claims Reporting Line at 1-800-440-0858.

Volunteer Opportunities:

· Individuals interested in volunteering can register at www.volunteerfloridadisaster.org.

· Volunteers will not be in direct contact with oil or oil-contaminated materials.

· The Governor’s Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service – Volunteer Florida is encouraging Floridians and visitors to stay current on the latest information on scheduled beach cleanups and other local volunteer opportunities. Learn more.

Learn More About Florida’s Response:

· DEP launched a Twitter account, www.Twitter.com/FLDEPalert, dedicated to providing updates on Florida’s response to the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill.

· DEP in coordination with the state Emergency Operations Center established an email sign-up and a comprehensive website at http://www.deepwaterhorizonflorida.com.

· For a list of Unified Command, BP and Florida phone numbers, visit http://www.dep.state.fl.us/deepwaterhorizon/default.htm#numbers.

· The Oil Spill Information Line is available at 1-888-337-3569 from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. seven days a week. Additional phone numbers have also been established for persons with disabilities: (800) 955-8771 (TDD) or (800) 955-8770 (voice).

FLORIDA DEEPWATER HORIZON RESPONSE JUNE 15, 2010

2010-06-15T11:27:00.000-04:00

Under the leadership of Governor Charlie Crist, the State Emergency Response Team and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) are actively coordinating and responding to the Deepwater Horizon incident.

The following is a summary of state and BP response actions to date, as well as tips for residents and visitors to take precautions both pre and post-landfall.

Landfall Reports and Predictions:

· On June 14, dime to five inch-sized tar balls and tar patties were found in widely scattered areas of Northwest Florida.

· Perdido Pass and Pensacola Pass will be closed with the tide to prevent oil from entering inland waters. Boom will be deployed across each Pass at flood tide (water coming in) and removed at ebb tide (water going out).

o Boaters in areas where skimming is being conducted, or where boom has been set, have been requested to maintain no-wake speeds.

o Based on oil activity recently, the United States Coast Guard's Captain of the Port for Sector Mobile authorized the official closure of Perdido Pass and Pensacola Pass. These waterways will be manned to allow access to necessary vessel traffic. Perdido Pass and Pensacola Pass will be open for vessel traffic during low tide. See NOAA tide predictions.

o Boat traffic needing access in or out of boom locations, should call 1-850-736-2261.

o A flashing light has been attached to all boom to increase visibility to boaters.

· According to NOAA projections, additional impacts are expected throughout northwest Florida within the next 72 hours due to onshore winds.

· The majority of impacts to Florida’s shoreline will likely be highly weathered, in the form of tar balls, oil sheen, tar mats or mousse – a pudding-like oil/water mixture that could be brown, rust or orange in color.

· Observations by NOAA continue to indicate no significant amounts of oil moving toward the Loop Current. The Loop Current Ring, a circular current which was formerly part of the Loop Current and contains a small portion of oil slick in the form of light sheens, has detached again from the main Loop Current.

o There have been no reports of Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill-related oil products reaching the shore beyond the northwest Florida region. There is no indication that the rest of the state will have impacts from weathered oil products within the next 72 hours.

· Learn more at the NOAA website. If oil is sighted on Florida’s coastline report it to the State Warning Point at 1-877-2-SAVE-FL (1-877-272-8335) or by dialing #DEP from most cell phones.

On Site Actions:

· Current projections estimate Deepwater Horizon’s discharge at 12,600 to 40,000 barrels per day. Learn more.

· BP has placed a Lower Marine Riser Package (LMRP) Cap Containment System in an attempt to contain the leak and capture a substantial amount of the leaking oil. On June 14, 15,420 barrels of oil were captured from the LMRP Cap Containment System. BP is continuing efforts to drill two relief wells.

State Actions:

· The State Emergency Operations Center is activated at Level 1.

· On June 13, the FWC issued an executive order to temporarily close a portion of coastal state waters offshore of Escambia County to the harvest of saltwater fish, crabs and shrimp.

o The closure includes state waters from the beaches out nine nautical miles into the Gulf from the Alabama line east to the Pensacola Beach water tower. Interior bays and estuaries remain open to fishing.

o This area covers approximately 23 miles of Florida’s coastline in Escambia County, where oil spill is now present.

o Recreational catch-and-release fishing is still allowed as long as saltwater fish are not harvested or possessed in the closed area. Oysters, clams and mussels are not included in the closure, because they are not expected to be affected by oil in the area. Learn more.

· On June 10, DEP issued an Amended Emergency Final Order to accelerate preparedness and restoration in the counties under the Governor’s state-of-emergency Executive Orders.

· On June 10, Deepwater Horizon Unified Command announced the activation of the Florida Peninsula Command Post in Miami. Learn more.

· On June 9, FWC announced that its commissioners will hold an informal meeting in Pensacola Beach on June 15, to hear from people with fish and wildlife concerns related to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Learn more.

· Governor Crist has issued three Executive Orders since April 30, 2010 declaring a state of emergency in 26 coastal counties that may see impacts.

· DEP conducted water and sediment sampling to use as a baseline and is monitoring air quality data. Statewide air quality monitoring is conducted in coordination with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Learn more at http://www.airnow.gov/ or http://www.epa.gov/bpspill/.

o Air quality reports for June 14 revealed that air quality was considered good for ozone and moderate for fine particulate matter in northwest Florida. “Good” means the air quality is satisfactory and air pollution poses little or no risk. “Moderate” means air quality is acceptable for most people.

Boom Placement:

· Approximately 305,900 feet of boom has been placed in northwest Florida along the most sensitive areas and 58,750 feet is staged. Additionally, counties in the region are moving forward with supplemental booming plans. As of June 14, 250,010 feet of supplemental boom has been deployed or staged by Florida contractors.

· Placement of boom is based on where the oil is threatening, as well as each region’s area contingency plan.

Health Effects:

· The Florida Department of Health, in coordination with DEP and VISITFLORIDA has developed an online mapping resource that contains the most up-to-date health advisory information for Florida's beach waters. Visitors are encouraged to visit www.dep.state.fl.us/deepwaterhorizon/health.htm or www.visitflorida.com/florida_travel_advisory/.

· On June 8, Escambia County Health Department, in coordination with Escambia County Emergency Management and local officials posted a health advisory for the area extending from the Florida-Alabama state line to the entrance of the Perdido Unit, Gulf Islands National Seashore. Learn more.

· If residents or visitors see tar or oiled debris on the beach, DO NOT PICK IT UP. Report it to the Florida State Warning Point by calling #DEP from a cell phone or 1-877-2-SAVE-FL (1-877-272-8335). For most people, an occasional brief contact with a small amount of oil will do no harm, yet still it is not recommended. Learn more.

· For general health information questions regarding the oil-spill and exposure to oil spill products contact the Florida Poison Information Centers at 1-800-222-1222.

· DOH has compiled guidelines for managing stress and preventing heat related injuries for those impacted by the oil spill or involved in cleanup activities. Learn more.

Fisheries & Seafood:

· On June 8, NOAA adjusted the boundaries of the previously closed fishing area, opening 339 square miles off of northwest Florida, with the northern boundary now ending at the Florida federal-state water line on the east side of Choctawhatchee Bay. Learn more.

· While state waters off the coast of Escambia County are closed for the harvest of saltwater fish, crabs and shrimp, all other state waters remain open to recreational fishing.

· Fishermen who wish to contact BP about a claim should call 1-800-440-0858.

· To report oiled wildlife, please call 1-866-557-1401 and leave a message. Messages are checked hourly.

· For the safety of the public as well as the safety of animals, rescues should only be conducted by trained responders. Learn more.

Tourism:

· Through www.VISITFLORIDA.com, vacationers are able to view live Twitter feeds and read up-to-the-minute information on the status of any city or region in Florida. Learn more at http://www.visitflorida.com/florida_travel_advisory/.

· The Florida State Parks website, http://www.floridastateparks.org, is updated daily and will list any impacts. Learn more by calling 1-850-245-2157.

Tips for Homeowners:

· While the state appreciates the concern expressed by Floridians and the ingenuity of those seeking alternative measures to help protect the state’s shoreline, the following tips are offered to ensure that these measures are helpful and not harmful to Florida’s coasts, wildlife and water resources: Tips for homeowners.

Tips for Businesses and Consumers:

· The Attorney General’s fraud hotline is open to receive any reports of fraud or price gouging. The hotline is 1-866-966-7226.

· The Florida Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner gas price-gouging hotline is also operational. The toll-free hotline number is 1-800-HELP-FLA (1-800-435-7352).

· Coastal businesses should make loss of earnings claims for damages incurred as a result of the oil spill. Learn more at http://www.myfloridacfo.com/ or by calling 1-850-413-3089 or toll-free at 1-877-MY-FL-CFO (1-877-693-5236).

· To discuss spill related damage with BP representatives, please call the BP Claims Reporting Line at 1-800-440-0858.

Volunteer Opportunities:

· Individuals interested in volunteering can register at www.volunteerfloridadisaster.org.

· Volunteers will not be in direct contact with oil or oil-contaminated materials.

· The Governor’s Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service – Volunteer Florida is encouraging Floridians and visitors to stay current on the latest information on scheduled beach cleanups and other local volunteer opportunities. Learn more.

· Individuals who live along or who are visiting coastal communities are encouraged to enjoy Florida’s coastal areas while watching for oiled wildlife and shoreline. Report impacts by calling 1-866-557-1401 and report oiled shoreline in Florida by calling #DEP from a cell phone or 1-877-2-SAVE-FL (1-877-272-8335).

Learn More About Florida’s Response:

· DEP launched a Twitter account, www.Twitter.com/FLDEPalert, dedicated to providing updates on Florida’s response to the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill.

· DEP in coordination with the state Emergency Operations Center established an email sign-up and a comprehensive website at http://www.deepwaterhorizonflorida.com.

· For a list of Unified Command, BP and Florida phone numbers, visit http://www.dep.state.fl.us/deepwaterhorizon/default.htm#numbers.

· The Oil Spill Information Line is available at 1-888-337-3569 from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. seven days a week. Additional phone numbers have also been established for persons with disabilities: (800) 955-8771 (TDD) or (800) 955-8770 (voice).

FLORIDA DEEPWATER HORIZON RESPONSE JUNE 14, 2010

2010-06-14T14:20:00.001-04:00

Under the leadership of Governor Charlie Crist, the State Emergency Response Team and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) are actively coordinating and responding to the Deepwater Horizon incident.

The following is a summary of state and BP response actions to date, as well as tips for residents and visitors to take precautions both pre and post-landfall.

Landfall Reports and Predictions:

· Reconnaissance missions are ongoing. On June 14, as of noon, light sheen, streamers of weathered oil and tar balls were detected within five miles of Pensacola Pass.

· On June 13, dime to five inch-sized tar balls and tar patties were found in widely scattered areas of Northwest Florida.

· Perdido Pass and Pensacola Pass will be closed with the tide to prevent oil from entering inland waters. Boom will be deployed across each Pass at flood tide (water coming in) and removed at ebb tide (water going out).

o Boaters in areas where skimming is being conducted, or where boom has been set, have been requested to maintain no-wake speeds.

o Based on oil activity recently, the United States Coast Guard's Captain of the Port for Sector Mobile authorized the official closure of Perdido Pass and Pensacola Pass. These waterways will be manned to allow access to necessary vessel traffic. Perdido Pass and Pensacola Pass will be open for vessel traffic during low tide. See NOAA tide predictions.

o Boat traffic needing access in or out of boom locations, should call 1-850-736-2261.

o A flashing light has been attached to all boom to increase visibility to boaters.

· According to NOAA projections, additional impacts are expected throughout northwest Florida within the next 72 hours due to onshore winds.

· The majority of impacts to Florida’s shoreline will likely be highly weathered, in the form of tar balls, oil sheen, tar mats or mousse – a pudding-like oil/water mixture that could be brown, rust or orange in color.

· Observations by NOAA continue to indicate no significant amounts of oil moving toward the Loop Current. The Loop Current Ring, a circular current which was formerly part of the Loop Current and contains a small portion of oil slick in the form of light sheens, has slightly reattached to the main Loop Current after previously pinching off late last month. This reattachment has the potential to move a small amount of oil to the Florida Straits, but tar balls are not likely to impact the Florida Straits in the next three to four days.

o There have been no reports of Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill-related oil products reaching the shore beyond the northwest Florida region. There is no indication that the rest of the state will have impacts from weathered oil products within the next 72 hours.

· Learn more at the NOAA website. If oil is sighted on Florida’s coastline report it to the State Warning Point at 1-877-2-SAVE-FL (1-877-272-8335) or by dialing #DEP from most cell phones.

On Site Actions:

· Current projections estimate Deepwater Horizon’s discharge at 12,600 to 40,000 barrels per day. Learn more.

· BP has placed a Lower Marine Riser Package (LMRP) Cap Containment System in an attempt to contain the leak and capture a substantial amount of the leaking oil. On June 13, 15,200 barrels of oil were captured from the LMRP Cap Containment System. BP is continuing efforts to drill two relief wells.

State Actions:

· The State Emergency Operations Center is activated at Level 1.

· On June 13, the FWC issued an executive order to temporarily close a portion of coastal state waters offshore of Escambia County to the harvest of saltwater fish, crabs and shrimp.

o The closure includes state waters from the beaches out nine nautical miles into the Gulf from the Alabama line east to the Pensacola Beach water tower. Interior bays and estuaries remain open to fishing.

o This area covers approximately 23 miles of Florida’s coastline in Escambia County, where oil spill is now present.

o Recreational catch-and-release fishing is still allowed as long as saltwater fish are not harvested or possessed in the closed area. Oysters, clams and mussels are not included in the closure, because they are not expected to be affected by oil in the area. Learn more.

· On June 10, DEP issued an Amended Emergency Final Order to accelerate preparedness and restoration in the counties under the Governor’s state-of-emergency Executive Orders.

· On June 10, Deepwater Horizon Unified Command announced the activation of the Florida Peninsula Command Post in Miami. Learn more.

· On June 9, FWC announced that its commissioners will hold an informal meeting in Pensacola Beach on June 15, to hear from people with fish and wildlife concerns related to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Learn more.

· Governor Crist has issued three Executive Orders since April 30, 2010 declaring a state of emergency in 26 coastal counties that may see impacts.

· DEP conducted water and sediment sampling to use as a baseline and is monitoring air quality data. Statewide air quality monitoring is conducted in coordination with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Learn more at http://www.airnow.gov/ or http://www.epa.gov/bpspill/.

o Air quality reports for June 13 revealed that air quality was considered good for ozone and moderate for fine particulate matter in northwest Florida. “Good” means the air quality is satisfactory and air pollution poses little or no risk. “Moderate” means air quality is acceptable for most people.

Boom Placement:

· Approximately 299,900 feet of boom has been placed in northwest Florida along the most sensitive areas and 58,750 feet is staged. Additionally, counties in the region are moving forward with supplemental booming plans. As of June 13, 219,140 feet of supplemental boom has been deployed or staged by Florida contractors.

· Placement of boom is based on where the oil is threatening, as well as each region’s area contingency plan.

Health Effects:

· The Florida Department of Health, in coordination with DEP and VISITFLORIDA has developed an online mapping resource that contains the most up-to-date health advisory information for Florida's beach waters. Visitors are encouraged to visit www.dep.state.fl.us/deepwaterhorizon/health.htm or www.visitflorida.com/florida_travel_advisory/.

· On June 8, Escambia County Health Department, in coordination with Escambia County Emergency Management and local officials posted a health advisory for the area extending from the Florida-Alabama state line to the entrance of the Perdido Unit, Gulf Islands National Seashore. Learn more.

· If residents or visitors see tar or oiled debris on the beach, DO NOT PICK IT UP. Report it to the Florida State Warning Point by calling #DEP from a cell phone or 1-877-2-SAVE-FL (1-877-272-8335). For most people, an occasional brief contact with a small amount of oil will do no harm, yet still it is not recommended. Learn more.

· For general health information questions regarding the oil-spill and exposure to oil spill products contact the Florida Poison Information Centers at 1-800-222-1222.

· DOH has compiled guidelines for managing stress and preventing heat related injuries for those impacted by the oil spill or involved in cleanup activities. Learn more.

Fisheries & Seafood:

· On June 8, NOAA adjusted the boundaries of the previously closed fishing area, opening 339 square miles off of northwest Florida, with the northern boundary now ending at the Florida federal-state water line on the east side of Choctawhatchee Bay. Learn more.

· While state waters off the coast of Escambia County are closed for the harvest of saltwater fish, crabs and shrimp, all other state waters remain open to recreational fishing.

· Fishermen who wish to contact BP about a claim should call 1-800-440-0858.

· To report oiled wildlife, please call 1-866-557-1401 and leave a message. Messages are checked hourly.

· For the safety of the public as well as the safety of animals, rescues should only be conducted by trained responders. Learn more.

Tourism:

· Through www.VISITFLORIDA.com, vacationers are able to view live Twitter feeds and read up-to-the-minute information on the status of any city or region in Florida. Learn more at http://www.visitflorida.com/florida_travel_advisory/.

· The Florida State Parks website, http://www.floridastateparks.org, is updated daily and will list any impacts. Learn more by calling 1-850-245-2157.

Tips for Homeowners:

· While the state appreciates the concern expressed by Floridians and the ingenuity of those seeking alternative measures to help protect the state’s shoreline, the following tips are offered to ensure that these measures are helpful and not harmful to Florida’s coasts, wildlife and water resources: Tips for homeowners.

Tips for Businesses and Consumers:

· The Attorney General’s fraud hotline is open to receive any reports of fraud or price gouging. The hotline is 1-866-966-7226.

· The Florida Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner gas price-gouging hotline is also operational. The toll-free hotline number is 1-800-HELP-FLA (1-800-435-7352).

· Coastal businesses should make loss of earnings claims for damages incurred as a result of the oil spill. Learn more at http://www.myfloridacfo.com/ or by calling 1-850-413-3089 or toll-free at 1-877-MY-FL-CFO (1-877-693-5236).

· To discuss spill related damage with BP representatives, please call the BP Claims Reporting Line at 1-800-440-0858.

Volunteer Opportunities:

· Individuals interested in volunteering can register at www.volunteerfloridadisaster.org.

· Volunteers will not be in direct contact with oil or oil-contaminated materials.

· The Governor’s Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service – Volunteer Florida is encouraging Floridians and visitors to stay current on the latest information on scheduled beach cleanups and other local volunteer opportunities. Learn more.

· Individuals who live along or who are visiting coastal communities are encouraged to enjoy Florida’s coastal areas while watching for oiled wildlife and shoreline. Report impacts by calling 1-866-557-1401 and report oiled shoreline in Florida by calling #DEP from a cell phone or 1-877-2-SAVE-FL (1-877-272-8335).

Learn More About Florida’s Response:

· DEP launched a Twitter account, www.Twitter.com/FLDEPalert, dedicated to providing updates on Florida’s response to the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill.

· DEP in coordination with the state Emergency Operations Center established an email sign-up and a comprehensive website at http://www.deepwaterhorizonflorida.com.

· For a list of Unified Command, BP and Florida phone numbers, visit http://www.dep.state.fl.us/deepwaterhorizon/default.htm#numbers.

· The Oil Spill Information Line is available at 1-888-337-3569 from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. seven days a week. Additional phone numbers have also been established for persons with disabilities: (800) 955-8771 (TDD) or (800) 955-8770 (voice).

FLORIDA DEEPWATER HORIZON RESPONSE JUNE 12, 2010

2010-06-12T11:44:00.000-04:00

Under the leadership of Governor Charlie Crist, the State Emergency Response Team and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) are actively coordinating and responding to the Deepwater Horizon incident.

The following is a summary of state and BP response actions to date, as well as tips for residents and visitors to take precautions both pre and post-landfall.

Landfall Reports and Predictions:
· On June 11, a large plume of weathered oil was detected nine miles south of Pensacola Pass. The plume is two miles wide and goes south for 40 miles.
· An additional plume of non-weathered oil was verified through state reconnaissance data. The plume is located three miles south of Pensacola Pass.
· Response assets, including skimming vessels, have been dispatched to the area.
· On June 11, dime to five inch-sized tar balls and tar patties were found in widely scattered areas from the Alabama/Florida state line east to Okaloosa County. Tar ball and tar patty findings are more concentrated in the western-most Florida counties. Clean up teams continue to be on scene.
· Heavy impacts, in addition to tar balls and tar patties, have not been reported in Florida at this time.
· Perdido Pass and Pensacola Pass will be closed with the tide to prevent oil from entering inland waters. Boom will be deployed across each Pass at flood tide (water coming in) and removed at ebb tide (water going out).
o Boaters in areas where skimming is being conducted, or where boom has been set, have been requested to maintain no-wake speeds.
o Based on oil activity recently, the United States Coast Guard's Captain of the Port for Sector Mobile authorized the official closure of Perdido Pass and most recently, Pensacola Pass. Each pass will be manned to allow access to necessary vessel traffic. Perdido Pass and Pensacola Pass will be open for vessel traffic during low tide. See NOAA tide predictions.
o Boat traffic needing access in or out of boom locations, should call 1-850-736-2261.
o A flashing light has been attached to all boom to increase visibility to boaters.
· According to NOAA projections, additional impacts are expected throughout northwest Florida within the next 72 hours due to onshore winds.
· The majority of impacts to Florida’s shoreline will likely be highly weathered, in the form of tar balls, oil sheen, tar mats or mousse – a pudding-like oil/water mixture that could be brown, rust or orange in color.
· Observations by NOAA continue to indicate no significant amounts of oil moving toward the Loop Current. The Loop Current Ring, a circular current which was formerly part of the Loop Current and contains a small portion of oil slick in the form of light sheens, has reattached to the main Loop Current after previously pinching off late last month. This reattachment has the potential to move a small amount of oil to the Florida Straits, but tar balls are not likely to impact the Florida Straits in the next three to four days.
o There have been no reports of Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill-related oil products reaching the shore beyond the northwest Florida region. There is no indication that the rest of the state will have impacts from weathered oil products within the next 72 hours.
· NOAA projections show the patches of sheen that are currently in the Loop Current Ring will be moved westward along the bottom of the Ring, following the Ring, rather than moving toward the Florida Straits with the Loop Current. However, there is still some uncertainty with this as we move further into the forecast period.
· Learn more at the NOAA website. If oil is sighted on Florida’s coastline report it to the State Warning Point at 1-877-2-SAVE-FL (1-877-272-8335) or by dialing #DEP from most cell phones.

On Site Actions:
· On June 10, a team of scientists, under the direction of National Incident Commander Admiral Thad Allen, updated their assessments of the flow rates from the Deepwater Horizon well, prior to the riser being cut on June 3. Current projections estimate Deepwater Horizon’s discharge at 12,600 to 40,000 barrels per day. Learn more.
· BP has placed a Lower Marine Riser Package (LMRP) Cap Containment System in an attempt to contain the leak and capture a substantial amount of the leaking oil. BP has begun pumping gas and oil to the surface. There is hope that a significant portion of the flow will be captured, but this is only a temporary and partial fix. On June 10, 15,550 barrels were captured from the LMRP Cap Containment System.
· Meanwhile, BP is continuing efforts to drill relief wells.
· To discuss spill related damage with BP representatives, please call the BP Claims Reporting Line at 1-800-440-0858.

State Actions:
· The State Emergency Operations Center is activated at Level 1.
· On June 11, Governor Crist announced seafood licenses set to expire on July 1, 2010 are extended and the 2010 recreational harvest season for bay scallops will open nearly two weeks early. Learn more.
· On June 10, Governor Crist signed a memorandum of understanding with BP, committing an additional $25 million block grant for state preparedness and response costs to combat the impacts of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Learn more.
· On June 10, DEP issued an Amended Emergency Final Order to accelerate preparedness and restoration in the counties under the Governor’s state-of-emergency Executive Orders.
· On June 10, Deepwater Horizon Unified Command announced the activation of the Florida Peninsula Command Post in Miami. Learn more.
· On June 9, FWC announced that its commissioners will hold an informal meeting in Pensacola Beach on June 15, to hear from people with fish and wildlife concerns related to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Learn more.
· On June 9, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services implemented a toll-free hotline to provide consumers with information about Florida’s open and closed fishing harvest areas, the availability of seafood varieties, and general pricing information. The number is 1-800-357-4273. Learn more.
· On June 8, the Florida Department of Health issued important health information, reminding both Floridians and visitors to avoid contact with tar and oiled debris to ensure public health and safety. Learn more.
· BP has opened 10 claims offices in Florida. Visit the BP Claims Page to learn more.
· Governor Crist has issued three Executive Orders since April 30, 2010 declaring a state of emergency in 26 coastal counties that may see impacts.
· DEP conducted water and sediment sampling to use as a baseline and is monitoring air quality data. Statewide air quality monitoring is conducted in coordination with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Learn more at http://www.airnow.gov/ or http://www.epa.gov/bpspill/.
o Air quality reports for June 11 revealed that air quality was considered good for ozone and particulate matter in northwest Florida. “Good” means the air quality is satisfactory and air pollution poses little or no risk.

Boom Placement:
· Approximately 283100 feet of boom has been placed in northwest Florida along the most sensitive areas and 67550 feet is staged. Additionally, counties in the region are moving forward with supplemental booming plans. As of June 11, 229,640 feet of supplemental boom has been deployed or staged by Florida contractors.
· Placement of boom is based on where the oil is threatening, as well as each region’s area contingency plan.
· On June 11, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) issued a reminder to all boaters to slow down where oil cleanup is underway, as failure to operate at slow speed in these areas could result in injury, damage to vessels and damage to containment boom. Learn more.

Health Effects:
· The Florida Department of Health, in coordination with DEP and VISITFLORIDA has developed an online mapping resource that contains the most up-to-date health advisory information for Florida's beach waters. Visitors are encouraged to visit www.dep.state.fl.us/deepwaterhorizon/health.htm or www.visitflorida.com/florida_travel_advisory/.
· On June 8, Escambia County Health Department, in coordination with Escambia County Emergency Management and local officials posted a health advisory for the area extending from the Florida-Alabama state line to the entrance of the Perdido Unit, Gulf Islands National Seashore. Learn more.
· If residents or visitors see tar or oiled debris on the beach, DO NOT PICK IT UP. Report it to the Florida State Warning Point by calling #DEP from a cell phone or 1-877-2-SAVE-FL (1-877-272-8335). For most people, an occasional brief contact with a small amount of oil will do no harm, yet still it is not recommended. Learn more.
· For general health information questions regarding the oil-spill and exposure to oil spill products contact the Florida Poison Information Centers at 1-800-222-1222.

Fisheries & Seafood:
· On June 8, NOAA adjusted the boundaries of the previously closed fishing area, opening 339 square miles off of northwest Florida, with the northern boundary now ending at the Florida federal-state water line on the east side of Choctawhatchee Bay. The federal closed area does not apply to state waters. Closed fishing in these areas is a precautionary measure to ensure Gulf seafood remains safe for consumers. The closed area contains 78,264 square miles, approximately 32 percent of Gulf federal waters. Learn more.
· At this time, Florida’s state waters remain open to recreational fishing.
· Fishermen who wish to contact BP about a claim should call 1-800-440-0858.
· To report oiled wildlife, please call 1-866-557-1401 and leave a message. Messages are checked hourly.
· For the safety of the public as well as the safety of animals, rescues should only be conducted by trained responders. Learn more.

Tourism:
· Through www.VISITFLORIDA.com, vacationers are able to view live Twitter feeds and read up-to-the-minute information on the status of any city or region in Florida. Learn more at http://www.visitflorida.com/florida_travel_advisory/.
· The Florida State Parks website, http://www.floridastateparks.org, is updated daily and will list any impacts. Learn more by calling 1-850-245-2157.

Tips for Homeowners:
· While the state appreciates the concern expressed by Floridians and the ingenuity of those seeking alternative measures to help protect the state’s shoreline, the following tips are offered to ensure that these measures are helpful and not harmful to Florida’s coasts, wildlife and water resources: Tips for homeowners.

Tips for Businesses and Consumers:
· The Attorney General’s fraud hotline is open to receive any reports of fraud or price gouging. The hotline is 1-866-966-7226.
· The Florida Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner gas price-gouging hotline is also operational. The toll-free hotline number is 1-800-HELP-FLA (1-800-435-7352).
· Coastal businesses should make loss of earnings claims for damages incurred as a result of the oil spill. Businesses should file a claim with BP by calling 1-800-440-0858. Learn more at http://www.myfloridacfo.com/ or by calling 1-850-413-3089 or toll-free at 1-877-MY-FL-CFO (1-877-693-5236).

Volunteer Opportunities:
· Individuals interested in volunteering can register at www.volunteerfloridadisaster.org.
· Volunteers will not be in direct contact with oil or oil-contaminated materials.
· The Governor’s Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service – Volunteer Florida is encouraging Floridians and visitors to stay current on the latest information on scheduled beach cleanups and other local volunteer opportunities. Learn more.
· Individuals who live along or who are visiting coastal communities are encouraged to enjoy Florida’s coastal areas while watching for oiled wildlife and shoreline. Report oiled wildlife by calling 1-866-557-1401 and report oiled shoreline in Florida by calling #DEP from a cell phone or 1-877-2-SAVE-FL (1-877-272-8335).
Learn More About Florida’s Response:
· DEP launched a Twitter account, www.Twitter.com/FLDEPalert, dedicated to providing updates on Florida’s response to the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill.
· DEP in coordination with the state Emergency Operations Center established an email sign-up and a comprehensive website at http://www.deepwaterhorizonflorida.com.
· For a list of Unified Command, BP and Florida phone numbers, visit http://www.dep.state.fl.us/deepwaterhorizon/default.htm#numbers.
· The Oil Spill Information Line is available at 1-888-337-3569 from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. seven days a week. Additional phone numbers have also been established for persons with disabilities: (800) 955-8771 (TDD) or (800) 955-8770 (voice).

Florida Deepwater Horizon Response June 11, 2010

2010-06-11T12:59:00.000-04:00

Under the leadership of Governor Charlie Crist, the State Emergency Response Team and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) are actively coordinating and responding to the Deepwater Horizon incident.

The following is a summary of state and BP response actions to date, as well as tips for residents and visitors to take precautions both pre and post-landfall.

Landfall Reports and Predictions:
· On June 11, a large plume of weathered oil was detected nine miles south of Pensacola Pass. The plume is two miles wide and goes south for 40 miles.
· An additional plume of non-weathered oil was verified through state reconnaissance data. The plume is located six miles south of Escambia County.
· Response assets, including skimming vessels, have been dispatched to the area.
· On June 10, dime to five inch-sized tar balls and tar patties were found in widely scattered areas from the Alabama/Florida state line east to Okaloosa County. Tar ball and tar patty findings are more concentrated in the western-most Florida counties. Clean up teams continue to be on scene.
· Perdido Pass will be closed with the tide to prevent oil from entering the Bay. Boom will be deployed across the Pass at flood tide (water coming in) and removed at ebb tide (water going out).
o Boaters in areas where skimming is being conducted, or where boom has been set, have been requested to maintain no-wake speeds.
o Based on oil activity recently, the United States Coast Guard “Captain of the Port” for Sector Mobile authorized the official closure of Perdido Pass. It is manned 24 hours a day if vessels need to pass. The pass will be open for vessel traffic during low tide. See NOAA tide predictions.
o Boat traffic needing access in or out of boom locations, should call 1-850-736-2261.
o A flashing light has been attached to all boom to increase visibility to boaters.
· According to NOAA projections, additional impacts are expected throughout northwest Florida within the next 72 hours due to onshore winds.
· The majority of impacts to Florida’s shoreline will likely be highly weathered, in the form of tar balls, oil sheen, tar mats or mousse – a pudding-like oil/water mixture that could be brown, rust or orange in color.
· Observations by NOAA continue to indicate no significant amounts of oil moving toward the Loop Current. The Loop Current Ring, a circular current which was formerly part of the Loop Current and contains a small portion of oil slick in the form of light sheens, has reattached to the main Loop Current after previously pinching off late last month. This reattachment has the potential to move a small amount of oil to the Florida Straits, but tar balls are not likely to impact the Florida Straits in the next three to four days.
o There have been no reports of Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill-related oil products reaching the shore beyond the northwest Florida region. There is no indication that the rest of the state will have impacts from weathered oil products within the next 72 hours.
· Learn more at the NOAA website. If oil is sighted on Florida’s coastline report it to the State Warning Point at 1-877-2-SAVE-FL (1-877-272-8335) or by dialing #DEP from most cell phones.

On Site Actions:
· On June 10, a team of scientists, under the direction of National Incident Commander Admiral Thad Allen, updated their assessments of the flow rates from the Deepwater Horizon well, prior to the riser being cut on June 3. . Current projections estimate Deepwater Horizon’s discharge at 12,600 to 40,000 barrels per day. Learn more.
· BP has placed a Lower Marine Riser Package (LMRP) Cap Containment System in an attempt to contain the leak and capture a substantial amount of the leaking oil. BP has begun pumping gas and oil to the surface. There is hope that a significant portion of the flow will be captured, but this is only a temporary and partial fix. On June 10, 15,400 barrels were captured from the LMRP Cap Containment System.
· Meanwhile, BP is continuing efforts to drill relief wells.
· To discuss spill related damage with BP representatives, please call the BP Claims Reporting Line at 1-800-440-0858.

State Actions:
· The State Emergency Operations Center is activated at Level 1.
· On June 10, Governor Crist signed a memorandum of understanding with BP, committing an additional $25 million block grant for state preparedness and response costs to combat the impacts of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Learn more.
· On June 10, DEP issued an Amended Emergency Final Order to accelerate preparedness and restoration in the counties under the Governor’s state-of-emergency Executive Orders.
On June 10, Deepwater Horizon Unified Command announced the activation of the Florida Peninsula Command Post in Miami. This command post provides a command and control structure to plan and deliver oil spill preparedness and response activities across the Florida Peninsula should they be needed. Learn more.
· On June 9, the Gulf Oil Spill Economic Recovery Task Force held its first meeting in Tallahassee to facilitate efforts by Florida businesses and industries in recovering from lost business and revenues due to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Learn more.
· On June 9, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) announced that its commissioners will hold an informal meeting in Pensacola Beach on Tuesday, June 15, to hear from people with fish and wildlife concerns related to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Learn more.
· On June 9, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services implemented a new toll-free hotline to provide consumers with current information about the status of Florida’s open and closed fishing harvest areas, the availability of seafood varieties, and general pricing information. The number is 1-800-357-4273. Learn more.
· On June 8, Governor Crist announced the State of Florida’s additional proactive measures to ensure the quick and timely discovery of oil from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Reconnaissance missions are being coordinated daily from the State Emergency Operations Center. Learn more.
· On June 8, the Florida Department of Health issued important health information regarding the Deepwater Horizon oil spill incident, reminding both Floridians and visitors to avoid contact with tar and oiled debris to ensure public health and safety. Learn more.
· On June 7, Governor Crist activated Florida’s Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program in an effort to assist businesses impacted by the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. The program will provide emergency, short-term loans to established small businesses in designated counties. Learn more.
· On June 5, DEP began operating a mobile command post at Henderson Beach State Park in Destin for reconnaissance missions. A team of staff on 25 all-terrain vehicles are monitoring the coastline from Escambia County east to Gulf County for potential impacts. Each all-terrain vehicle monitors five miles of shoreline.
· BP has opened 10 claims offices in Florida. Visit the BP Claims Page to learn more.
· Governor Crist has issued three Executive Orders since April 30, 2010 declaring a state of emergency in 26 coastal counties that may see impacts.
· On May 18, the Small Business Administration (SBA) opened eight offices and a mobile unit in northwest Florida. To date, these offices have issued a total of 292 applications. Of the applications issued, 51 applications have been accepted, two have been approved, and 14 have been declined. Find an office here.
· DEP conducted water and sediment sampling to use as a baseline and is monitoring air quality data. Statewide air quality monitoring is conducted in coordination with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Learn more at http://www.airnow.gov/ or http://www.epa.gov/bpspill/.
o Air quality reports for June 10 revealed that air quality was considered good for ozone and particulate matter in northwest Florida. “Good” means the air quality is satisfactory and air pollution poses little or no risk.

Boom Placement:
· Approximately 278,500 feet of boom has been placed in northwest Florida along the most sensitive areas and 75,450 feet is staged. Additionally, counties in the region are moving forward with supplemental booming plans. As of June 10, 197,440 feet of supplemental boom has been deployed or staged by Florida contractors.
· Placement of boom is based on where the oil is threatening, as well as each region’s area contingency plan.
· The Unified Command Operations Group is asking boaters to avoid damaging boom. Boom cut or broken due to boater traffic jeopardizes coastal protection.
· Stolen or misplaced boom should be reported to local authorities.

Health Effects:
· On June 8, Escambia County Health Department, in coordination with Escambia County Emergency Management and local officials posted a health advisory for the area extending from the Florida-Alabama state line to the entrance of the Perdido Unit, Gulf Islands National Seashore. Learn more.
· If residents or visitors see tar or oiled debris on the beach, DO NOT PICK IT UP. Report it to the Florida State Warning Point by calling #DEP from a cell phone or 1-877-2-SAVE-FL (1-877-272-8335). For most people, an occasional brief contact with a small amount of oil will do no harm, yet still it is not recommended. Learn more.
· For general health information questions regarding the oil-spill and exposure to oil spill products contact the Florida Poison Information Centers at 1-800-222-1222.

Fisheries & Seafood:
· On June 8, NOAA adjusted the boundaries of the previously closed fishing area, opening 339 square miles off of northwest Florida, with the northern boundary now ending at the Florida federal-state water line on the east side of Choctawhatchee Bay. The federal closed area does not apply to state waters. Closed fishing in these areas is a precautionary measure to ensure Gulf seafood remains safe for consumers. The closed area contains 78,264 square miles, approximately 32 percent of Gulf federal waters. This leaves approximately 68 percent of Gulf federal waters available for fishing. Learn more.
· At this time, Florida’s state waters remain open to recreational fishing.
· Fishermen who wish to contact BP about a claim should call 1-800-440-0858.
· To report oiled wildlife, please call 1-866-557-1401 and leave a message. Messages are checked hourly.
· For the safety of the public as well as the safety of animals, rescues should only be conducted by trained responders. Learn more.

Tourism:
· Through www.VISITFLORIDA.com, vacationers are able to view live Twitter feeds and read up-to-the-minute information on the status of any city or region in Florida. Learn more at http://www.visitflorida.com/florida_travel_advisory/.
· The Florida State Parks website, http://www.floridastateparks.org, is updated daily and will list any impacts. Learn more by calling 1-850-245-2157.

Tips for Homeowners:
· While the state appreciates the concern expressed by Floridians and the ingenuity of those seeking alternative measures to help protect the state’s shoreline, the following tips are offered to ensure that these measures are helpful and not harmful to Florida’s coasts, wildlife and water resources: Tips for homeowners.

Tips for Businesses and Consumers:
· The Attorney General’s fraud hotline is open to receive any reports of fraud or price gouging. The hotline is 1-866-966-7226.
· The Florida Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner gas price-gouging hotline is also operational. The toll-free hotline number is 1-800-HELP-FLA (1-800-435-7352).
· Coastal businesses should make loss of earnings claims for damages incurred as a result of the oil spill. Businesses should file a claim with BP by calling 1-800-440-0858. Learn more at http://www.myfloridacfo.com/ or by calling 1-850-413-3089 or toll-free at 1-877-MY-FL-CFO (1-877-693-5236).

Volunteer Opportunities:
· Individuals interested in volunteering can register at www.volunteerfloridadisaster.org.
· Volunteers will not be in direct contact with oil or oil-contaminated materials.
· The Governor’s Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service – Volunteer Florida is encouraging Floridians and visitors to stay current on the latest information on scheduled beach cleanups and other local volunteer opportunities. Learn more.
· Individuals who live along or who are visiting coastal communities are encouraged to enjoy Florida’s coastal areas while watching for oiled wildlife and shoreline. Report oiled wildlife by calling 1-866-557-1401 and report oiled shoreline in Florida by calling #DEP from a cell phone or 1-877-2-SAVE-FL (1-877-272-8335).
Learn More About Florida’s Response:
· DEP launched a Twitter account, www.Twitter.com/FLDEPalert, dedicated to providing updates on Florida’s response to the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill.
· DEP in coordination with the state Emergency Operations Center established an email sign-up and a comprehensive website at http://www.deepwaterhorizonflorida.com.
· For a list of Unified Command, BP and Florida phone numbers, visit http://www.dep.state.fl.us/deepwaterhorizon/default.htm#numbers.
· The Oil Spill Information Line is available at 1-888-337-3569 from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. seven days a week. Additional phone numbers have also been established for persons with disabilities: (800) 955-8771 (TDD) or (800) 955-8770 (voice).