Recent report shows rising home insurance costs in climate risk areas due to increased natural disasters and climate change risks are pushing homeowners to seek alternatives. more

With tropical systems forming in the Atlantic, many Orange County residents are preparing for flooding by turning to sandbags — a simple but effective defense. From where to place them to how to stack them, here’s what you need to know before the next storm hits. more

With heat waves gripping much of the U.S., experts warn that runners, outdoor workers, and children face serious risks from extreme heat and humidity. Understanding how the body adapts and following safety tips like hydration, timing activity, and listening to warning signs can help prevent heat-related illnesses. more

As hurricane season intensifies, Orange County Public Works is reminding residents that preparing for the aftermath is as important as stocking up before the storm. Special curbside debris collection may be activated after severe weather, and proper sorting of vegetative, construction, and household waste is essential to ensure safe and timely removal. more

Smart Growth Group 1000 Friends of Florida is urging lawmakers to repeal parts of SB 180, a new law meant to speed post-disaster rebuilding but now criticized for stripping local governments of authority over land use and development rules. more

U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins announced a $675 million federal block grant to help Florida farmers recover from back‑to‑back hurricane seasons that caused billions in agricultural losses. The funding will assist producers in disaster‑designated counties with infrastructure repairs, market loss compensation, and recovery from widespread crop and timber damage. more

WUCF, Central Florida’s PBS and NPR stations, has introduced BEACON, a groundbreaking emergency broadcast network built with artificial intelligence and guided by emergency management experts. Available on HD radio, online, and through a mobile app, BEACON provides real-time alerts and critical information even during power or network outages. more

With extreme summer heat rising in Central Florida, recognizing early signs of heat illness—like cramps, exhaustion, or heat stroke—can be lifesaving. Knowing when to cool down, seek help, or call 911 keeps you and your loved ones safe during dangerous heat waves. more

Rainfall across all 18 counties in the St. Johns River Water Management District was below average in June, with precipitation mainly at the start and end of the month. Lake, Orange, and parts of Volusia and northern Brevard counties saw more than 10 inches in some areas. more

A tropical system crossing Florida on Tuesday could bring 4 to 8 inches of rain, localized flooding, and wind gusts up to 40 mph to Apopka and surrounding areas. more

FEMA and state officials continue to assist Florida residents recovering from Hurricanes Milton, Helene, and Debby, with more than $1.6 billion in aid approved so far. Nearly 800 FEMA staff are on the ground helping survivors navigate recovery programs, debris removal, rental assistance, and appeals. more

As critical satellite data for monitoring hurricanes goes dark at the peak of storm season, meteorologists warn that forecasts could become less precise at a time when accuracy saves lives. The loss of high-resolution microwave data leaves forecasters relying on less detailed images to track intensifying storms. more

Trooper’s Law makes it a felony in Florida to abandon or restrain pets during hurricanes and other official emergencies, with penalties of up to five years in prison. Local shelters, including Orange County Animal Services and Apopka’s Candy’s Cats, urge pet owners to explore every option to keep animals safe before considering surrender. more

University of Florida scientist Nikolaos Tziolas is developing a ChatGPT-like AI tool to help farmers assess crop damage after hurricanes using satellite imagery and conversational technology. Backed by a USDA grant, the platform will give growers quick, affordable insights into flooding and storm impacts, enhancing disaster response and resilience. more

A dangerous heat wave sweeping across the central and eastern U.S. in June has put millions under advisories, highlighting the growing health risks associated with extreme summer temperatures. From recognizing heat exhaustion to finding safe ways to cool off, public health experts stress the importance of early action to prevent life-threatening heat stroke. more

This year’s theme, “Power of Preparedness,” underscores the critical importance of being ready before disaster strikes. The expo will offer one-on-one conversations with emergency responders, safety demonstrations, and expert guidance on hurricane readiness. more

Rainfall across the District in May marked a notable shift, with precipitation levels rising above average for the first time since January. Most rain occurred at the beginning and end of the month, … more

With 50 deaths from 2015 to 2024, Florida leads the nation in lightning-related fatalities, according to the Lightning Safety Council. more

A study analyzed the results of shorelines in the regions around Cedar Key, an island off Florida's Nature Coast, during Hurricane Idalia in 2023. Researchers found living shorelines reduce wave energy and storm surge by 28% in hurricane environments. more

In the past, local mitigation plans primarily focused on repairing roads or protecting property from storm damage, without acknowledging that socially vulnerable groups, such as low-income or elderly populations, were more likely to be the hardest hit and take significantly longer to recover. Ivis García , Texas A&M University and Shannon Van Zandt , Texas A&M University When powerful storms hit your city, which neighborhoods are most … more

In Florida, preparation isn’t optional—it’s essential. Whether you’re a longtime resident or facing your first storm season, knowing what to do before, during, and after a hurricane can make all the difference. more

NOAA forecasts 13 to 19 named storms in a season with 60% chance to be above normal. more

Pittman: “How did we get here? Bear in mind that we’re a state surrounded on three sides by water, so we’re especially vulnerable to a rising sea level. Yet our state has seen rampant overdevelopment in flood-prone spots in recent years.” more

Each disaster relief pack can meet a family’s immediate nutritional needs for three days and does not require warming or refrigeration. more

Last week's tabletop exercises and drills, which run ahead of the June 1 start of hurricane season, bring together state and local agencies to practice response coordination. This year, discussions are shadowed by federal proposals to overhaul disaster recovery, leaving officials focused on shoring up state and local resources. more