Navigating Hurricane Safety in Florida: Evacuate or Stay In Place?

The decision to leave or stay during a hurricane in Florida can be daunting, but ensuring the safety of you and your family is paramount. Considerations like your location, home type, and possible evacuation routes are crucial in making an informed decision. This guide helps you evaluate the best option based on specific variables.

Factors Influencing the Decision: Evacuation vs. Staying In Place

In general, the safety of your family should take precedence over other factors. If you live in an evacuation zone due to potential flooding or wind damage, evacuation is typically the better option. It's important to recognize that evacuation zones may extend far inland, as hurricanes can dump significant amounts of rain and lead to flooding in areas not initially considered at risk.

Evacuating for Flooding

People who reside in flood-prone areas within or near hurricane evacuation zones should seriously consider evacuating. Evacuation zones are not solely limited to coastal areas. Inland communities that are prone to flooding due to storm surges or heavy rainfall can become dangerously saturated. The risk of drowning in fresh water does not differ significantly from drowning in salt water, making this a serious concern.

Evacuating for Wind Damage

If you're not in a flood zone but the primary risk is from wind, the specific structure of your home can make a critical difference. Homes built on mobile or manufactured foundations are more susceptible to wind damage, even during weaker storms. The structural integrity of your home is a key factor to consider, as poorly constructed homes are more vulnerable to damage.

Understanding Evacuation Zones

Evacuation doesn't always mean leaving the state entirely. In many cases, it involves moving to a safer location within the same state or even a different area of the same county. For instance, if you live just north of Tampa and are in a flood zone, an evacuation might mean moving to a higher ground area within the same county but not necessarily leaving Florida.

During a hurricane, evacuation routes can become congested, leading to extended periods out of your home. This can be especially challenging if you are required to stay in another state or region for an extended period. Essential services like gas stations may run out of fuel, and those that remain operational might be given priority to emergency services and important vehicles. This scenario is particularly relevant during major hurricanes like Irma, where many people evacuated from central Florida to neighboring states, leading to long waits and traffic backups on major highways.

Precautions to Take Before a Hurricane

Several precautions can be taken to protect your home and family before a hurricane strikes:

Secure Loose Items: Ensure that anything that can be picked up and blown around by the hurricane is secured inside or stored in a safe place. Plywood or shutters should be used to cover exterior windows. Prepare an Emergency Kit: Have cash, important documents, a first aid kit, and other necessary items handy in case you need to evacuate quickly. Car Maintenance: Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained and has a full tank of gas. This preparation can be crucial if you need to evacuate as quickly as possible. Follow Official Guidelines: Always follow the advice and instructions provided by local authorities and meteorologists. Their guidance is based on real-time data and can help you make the best decision for your safety.

Conclusion

Deciding whether to stay or evacuate during a hurricane in Florida is a complex decision. Consider the specific risk factors, potential evacuation routes, and safety measures. By understanding the variables and taking necessary precautions, you can make an informed decision that prioritizes the safety of you and your family.