Today, Governor Ron DeSantis issued a proclamation recognizing February 5 – 9, 2024 as Florida Severe Weather Awareness Week. This week is observed each year by the National Weather Service and the Florida Division of Emergency Management (Division) to increase awareness and preparedness for severe weather hazards during peak severe weather season in Florida.
“The state of Florida faces unique hazards year round, and through proper preparedness and education Floridians can be better equipped to handle whatever disaster may come their way,” said Division Executive Director Kevin Guthrie. “I encourage residents to determine their risk and know what hazards may impact their community, as well as have a fully stocked disaster supply kit that supports every member of the household, including pets.”
Florida’s Severe Weather Awareness Week focuses on the education of different natural hazards occurring in Florida each day of the week, as follows:
- Monday, February 5 – Lightning
- Tuesday, February 6 – Marine Hazards and Rip Currents
- Wednesday, February 7 – Thunderstorms and Tornadoes
- Thursday, February 8 – Hurricanes and Flooding
- Friday, February 9 – Temperature Extremes and Wildfires
A statewide tornado drill will also occur on Wednesday, February 7, at approximately 10 a.m. Public and commercial broadcasters are encouraged to participate in the statewide tornado drill by broadcasting these messages immediately. For the Florida Panhandle counties within the Central time zone, all drill activities will be repeated one hour earlier (9:00 a.m. CST). School districts, private schools, preschools and daycare centers are welcome to participate in the drill. The tornado warning will be broadcast on NOAA Weather Alert Radio as a “routine weekly test” message.
For more information about Florida Severe Weather Awareness Week, visit FloridaDisaster.org/SWAW and follow the Division on Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly known as Twitter) @FLSERT.
To find preparedness tips for families and businesses, visit FloridaDisaster.org/PlanPrepare.
