A fatal lightning strike near a Celebration hotel demonstrates how quickly a developing thunderstorm can become deadly. The incident warns Apopka residents not to wait for heavy rain or frequent lightning before seeking shelter.

The St. Johns River Water Management District averaged 6.84 inches of rainfall in August, nearly matching the month’s long-term average. However, groundwater remained very low, and every county in the District continued to face a 12-month rainfall deficit.

Recent rainfall has improved drought conditions in portions of northeast and central Florida, but the St. Johns River Water Management District says a full recovery will take time. Phase III Extreme Water Shortage restrictions remain in effect as groundwater levels, river flows, and accumulated rainfall deficits continue to concern water managers.

Florida’s summer thunderstorms bring a heightened risk of deadly lightning strikes. UF/IFAS Extension experts explain how to recognize an approaching storm, find safe shelter, and avoid common mistakes.

As tropical systems begin to form, Orange County residents can use sandbags to reduce the risk of minor flooding around their homes. Bags should be filled halfway and stacked in a staggered pattern, preferably over a plastic tarp for additional protection. Orange County opens self-service distribution sites before major storms, but officials caution that sandbags are no substitute for evacuating when instructed.

Summer storms have brought welcome rainfall to much of Central Florida, but water officials say the region is still far from recovering from the prolonged drought. The St. Johns River Water Management District is urging residents to continue conserving water as mandatory restrictions remain in place.

A dangerous heat wave is pushing heat index values above 100 degrees across much of the United States, prompting cancellations of outdoor events and increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses. This expert guide explains the warning signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and what you can do to protect yourself and your family.

Orange County has officially lifted its burn ban after steady rainfall reduced drought conditions across the area. Recreational open burning is once again permitted in unincorporated Orange County and communities served by Orange County Fire Rescue.

Most people assume the greatest danger during a heat wave is outside, but experts say indoor temperatures can become even more deadly when air conditioning fails. New research shows many homes can quickly reach dangerous conditions during prolonged power outages, especially older, poorly insulated houses.

Hurricane season is underway, and Orange County wants residents to prepare before a storm forms. The free Hurricane Expo on June 20 will feature expert forecasts, preparedness tips, and giveaways while supplies last.

After months of unusually dry conditions, May brought the first above-average rainfall across the St. Johns River Water Management District since October 2025. Despite the improvement, drought conditions remain widespread, and groundwater levels continue to lag behind normal seasonal levels.

A 6.1 magnitude earthquake near Cuba sent tremors across much of Florida on Monday afternoon, prompting thousands of reports to the U.S. Geological Survey. Scientists say aftershocks are highly likely over the next week, though there is no tsunami threat.

UF/IFAS experts have released a comprehensive hurricane preparedness checklist to help Floridians get ready for what forecasters expect to be an active hurricane season. The guidance covers disaster supplies, communication plans, food storage, generator safety, pet preparedness, and private well protection.   Now that Hurricane Season is here, it’s best to get your home and business ready for one of the fierce storms before …

Flood insurance was designed to help Americans recover from disasters, but critics say the system creates unequal outcomes. While some homeowners benefit from subsidized coverage, many lower-income families remain uninsured or underinsured and struggle to recover after major floods.

Hurricane season is here, and Orange County wants residents to prepare before stores become crowded and supplies become scarce. Officials recommend building an emergency kit now so families can focus on safety rather than last-minute shopping when storms approach.

Hurricane forecasts are more accurate today than at any point in history, giving residents more time to prepare, evacuate, and protect property before storms strike. However, researchers warn that budget cuts, staffing shortages, and reduced investment in weather science could jeopardize future improvements in forecasting. One of NOAA’s WP-3D Orion hurricane hunters, …

Orange County officials are encouraging families with young children to begin hurricane preparations early as the 2026 season approaches. Experts say simple conversations, familiar routines, and involving children in emergency planning can help reduce anxiety during severe weather events.

A new University of Florida study found hurricanes can dramatically reshape wildlife populations in ways both destructive and surprisingly beneficial. Researchers discovered that storms can kill animals, spread invasive species, force migration, and, in some cases, even help certain species thrive.

Much of the United States is experiencing drought conditions even as stronger storms deliver heavier rainfall events, a contradiction scientists say is tied to climate change and a warming atmosphere. Researchers warn that the changing water cycle is creating new challenges for flooding, agriculture, water supplies, and infrastructure.