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TAMPA BAY TIMES | HURRICANE GUIDE 2021 | MAY 30, 2021

Hurricane Guide 2021

CAN OUR LUCK HOLD OUT?

Not forever, weather experts fear. And conditions are favorable for yet another busy season. 2021 Atlantic Tropical Cyclone Names

BY JOSH FIALLO

Times Staff Writer

Florida escaped the record-breaking 2020 storm season without a single hurricane making landfall along its 1,350 miles of coastline. That luck has some scientists particularly worried about the 2021 season, however. Though it’s expected to be a far cry from the record 30 named storms that formed last year, Colorado State University predicts there will be 17 named storms, eight hurricanes and four major hurricanes in 2021. Lead hurricane researcher Philip Klotzbach fears some Floridians won’t prepare as usual for this year’s storms after dodging so many in 2020. Florida has been hit by 121 hurricanes and 37 major hurricanes since 1851 — by far the most of any state. With another eight hurricanes forecasted for 2021, it’s certainly possible that one or more will again find their way to the Sunshine State, Klotzbach said. Colorado State scientists predicts a 45 percent chance a major hurricane will strike Florida or the east coast, and a 44 percent chance of landfall anywhere from the Florida Panhandle to Texas along the Gulf Coast. “Florida got really lucky last year given how many storms were out there,” Klotzbach said. “But now the big concern is that one of these storms is going to actually hit a major metropolitan area and cause massive amounts of damage. “That’s especially the case for Tampa-St. Petersburg, which is so, so prone to storm surge.” Colorado State is a leading hurricane forecaster, and its prediction dovetails with other important forecasts. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts an above-normal storm season with 13 to 20 named

Ana Bill Claudette Danny Elsa Fred Grace

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (2020)

A satellite image from Sept. 10, 2020, shows tropical storms forming in the Atlantic.

storms, 6 to 10 hurricanes and 3 to 5 major hurricanes in 2021. Private forecaster AccuWeather calls for 16 to 20 named storms this year. Klotzbach emphasized that a direct hit to Tampa Bay is an infrequent occurrence. In fact, 2021 is the 100th anniversary of the last hurricane to strike the region, the 1921 Tampa Bay Hurricane aka the 1921 Tarpon Springs Hurricane. It reached the Tarpon Springs shore on Oct. 25 as a Category 3 storm generating maximum winds of up to 115 mph, killing six bay area residents, inflicting millions in damage and destroying that year’s citrus crop. It was the first major tropical cyclone to hit the region since the 1848 Tampa Bay Hurricane, aka the Great Gale of 1848. The last storm felt in the region

| Sunday, May 30, 2021 | Tampa Bay Times

was in November, when Tropical Storm Eta made landfall at Cedar Key, just north of the bay area. Eta caused flooding to inundate areas around Tampa General Hospital, the region’s only level-one trauma center. Water crept up the steps and into homes on Shore Drive E in Oldsmar, and also in St. Petersburg’s Shore Acres. The eastbound lanes of Bayshore Boulevard were more than four feet underwater. It was a warning to Tampa Bay residents, Klotzbach said. A warning he hopes residents will take seriously ahead of this year’s season. “If one of these storms were to actually hit the Tampa Bay area, it’s important to have a plan in place,” he said. “If you’re in a wellbuilt house, you can likely hide from the wind. But you absolutely

have to run from the storm surge. If emergency managers tell you to evacuate, you need to get out of there ASAP.” So, how reliable are pre-season forecasts? Scientists’ prediction of an “extremely active” season proved catastrophically true last year. For 2021, Klotzbach said forecasts will grow more accurate the closer we get to July and the peak of hurricane season. As of the beginning of May, Klotzbach said some conditions from a year ago are present again: warmer subtropical Atlantic waters and the absence of El Niño, which will make conditions favorable for storm development. El Niño is a Pacific phenomenon that warms the waters there, creating strong wind shear over the tropical Atlantic that can disrupt

Henri Ida Julian Kate Larry Mindy Nicholas

Odette Peter Rose Sam Teresa Victor Wanda

storm formation. Its opposing weather pattern is La Niña, which is caused by cooler waters in the central and eastern Pacific and in turn significantly limits Atlantic wind shear. The Pacific is currently in a weak La Niña event. There is a possibility of a shift to a neutral event ahead of the heart of hurricane season, Klotzbach said. The neutral event would mean that “anything goes,” he said. The most destructive hurricane season in modern history, which included hurricanes Katrina and Wilma, came under a neutral event in 2005. By contrast, another neutral event occurred in 2013, which produced just two hurricanes for the entire season. “There is a larger range of outcomes when we have neutral conditions,” Klotzbach said. “But it’s better news than having La Niña, which was a big reason the end of the 2020 hurricane season was so active.” Other factors that affect storm seasons — such as the presence of a Bermuda high, the monsoon season in Africa and the presence of storm-suppressing Saharan dust — will have to be monitored after hurricane season starts June 1, Klotzbach said. Contact Josh Fiallo at jfiallo@ tampabay.com or 727-893-8528. Follow @ByJoshFiallo

Tampa Bay Times | Sunday, May 30, 2021 |

Hurricane Guide 2021 Tropical Storm Eta brought heavy rain and flooding to the Tampa Bay area on Nov. 12 last year.

THE CONE OF CERTAINTY

LUIS SANTANA | Times (2020)

Top emergency officials want you to stay calm and prepare, not listen to myths flying in the wind. 4H

BY JAMAL THALJI

Times Staff Writer

Tape your windows before a hurricane. That advice echoes across Florida every storm season. And every year, it’s wrong. “That does not help nothing,” said Pasco County Emergency Management Director Andrew Fossa. “The only thing that is going to do is hold bigger pieces of glass together as it flies through the air.” Taping up windows may be the most common misconception about getting ready for a hurricane in Florida. It’s hardly the only one. Such myths have long clouded the judgment of Floridians in the face of the Sunshine State’s greatest danger: hurricane season. Those myths may have even foretold this era of conspiracy theories and misinformation that has infected the public’s understanding of the pandemic, vaccines and elections.

| Sunday, May 30, 2021 | Tampa Bay Times

To help bay area residents get ready for the 2021 hurricane season, the Tampa Bay Times asked the state and region’s top emergency management officials to list the hurricane myths and misconceptions they wish Floridians would forget about already.

Myth 1

We’re (probably) covered The most important protection every Florida homeowner needs before hurricane season isn’t storm shutters or a portable generator or an evacuation plan. It’s making sure they have the right insurance. “I think that’s the first step,” said Florida Division of Emergency Management Director Kevin Guthrie.

Too many Floridians, he said, enter storm season with inadequate homeowner insurance that doesn’t cover the true value of their home. They may also not realize that their home policy doesn’t cover water or flood damage caused by a hurricane, tropical storm or even a severe rain storm. That is only covered by flood insurance. And it’s not just those who live in a flood zone that are at risk of water damage. “If you live in Florida and it rains,” Guthrie said, “it could flood on your property.” Guthrie said it’s important for every property owner to review their coverage every year with their agent and adjust accordingly, especially as property values soar. “Right now is a good time to call your insurance agent and make sure you have the See MYTHS, 6H

Tampa Bay Times | Sunday, May 30, 2021 |

Hurricane Guide 2021 MYTHS, continued from 4H right insurance for the value of your home,” he said. “God forbid something happens to your home and you’re not able to rebuild it.” The National Flood Insurance Program typically covers a maximum of $250,000 for the home and $100,000 for personal property. Private policies State Division offer more coverage. of Emergency It also takes 30 days for Management a flood insurance policy to Director take effect, Guthrie said, so Kevin Guthrie getting coverage is not like running out to Walmart to buy a flashlight before a storm. A homeowner without flood insurance will be in serious trouble, left dependent on savings, charity and a meager payout from federal relief funds. Guthrie said the average payout from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to state homeowners over the last 10 years is about $4,000 and the maximum payout is about $35,000. “No one can rebuild their life on $4,000,” he said. “No one can rebuild their life on $35,000.”

Myth 2

Can’t afford to prepare Getting ready for a storm can be expensive, and low-income or unemployed Floridians may lack the resources to stock up on food and plywood. Those who own their homes may not be able to get them fixed before storm season. Renters may not be able to hunker down at home. But that shouldn’t keep anyone from getting ready for a hurricane, Guthrie said. “(The notion) that I don’t have any money so I can’t prepare is 100 percent a myth,” he said. “There are things you can do that are zero dollar in preparations.” Start gathering most important documents, records and photos so they’re ready to go in case of an evacuation. Same goes for personal mementos. “Keepsakes, pictures, photographs, heirlooms, it takes no money to know where those things are, to make a checklist, to make sure you get this and this and this before you leave the house,” he said. Everyone who has a smartphone can access free cloud storage services, such as iCloud and Google Drive. There are free apps that allow you to photograph import-

ant documents and convert them to PDFs without using a scanner. It also doesn’t cost money to check evacuation zones, find the nearest shelter, or look for family or friends to stay with. Renters who have doubts about whether they can ride out the storm at home definitely need an evacuation plan. Guthrie recommends that those on a limited income or relying on food banks should pick up a few non-perishable food items or a case of bottled water here and there during storm season and set them aside. Build a storm pantry before the storm gets here. “There are good preparation techniques that do not cost any money,” he said.

Myth 3

The cone of uncertainty Every storm season, Floridians become fixated on the projected path of the latest storm threatening Florida. The National Hurricane Center uses that shaded cone and black line to show the possible path of the center of a storm three and five days out. But many read far more into the cone than they should. They often believe that the center line is the actual path of the storm, or that the cone itself represents the size of the storm, or if they’re on the outskirts of the cone they’re in the clear. None of that is true. “I would love to see some additional awareness and education behind the concept of what comprises the cone of uncertainty,” said Hernando County Emergency Management Director Erin Thomas. Everyone living in the cone of uncertainty is at risk of the center of a tropical cyclone rolling overErin Thomas head. The cone doesn’t indicate how severe the wind, rain, storm surge or flooding may be, so residents shouldn’t assume they understand the potential impacts. Those who live outside the cone aren’t in the clear, either — they could still experience severe hazards. The cone basically means those living in the shaded area should pay attention and get ready. “The cone of uncertainty is intended for everyone to understand that the hazards exist outside that skinny black line of that forecast,” Thomas said. “Just a few miles in either direction can mean a world of difference in terms of the significance of impact.”

| Sunday, May 30, 2021 | Tampa Bay Times

Times (2017)

Debris left behind by Hurricane Irma lies scattered in a neighborhood called “The Avenues” in Big Pine Key on Sept. 29, 2017, more than two weeks after the storm.

Myth 4

Meet the new storm, same as the old storm It’s a myth that Pinellas County Emergency Management Director Cathie Perkins hears every year: “People think the next storm will be just like the last one.” Many tend to believe that if they’ve already experienced a Category 1 or Category 3 hurricane, she said, then they’ve experienced them all. “You hear people say ‘I’ve been here all my life,’ ” Perkins said. “If they didn’t Cathie evacuate for the last storm Perkins then they’re not going to evacuate for this one.” But every storm is different, and so are its impacts. The severity of a tropical cyclone, storm surge and flooding are determined by factors such as direction, tides, wind speed, time of day, rainfall, ground saturation, river and lake levels and where it makes landfall. The last major storm to come close to Tampa Bay was 2017’s Hurricane Irma. It was a record-breaking Category 5 monster that spurred the largest evacuation in Florida history. It struck the Keys as a Category 4 storm and moved up Florida’s spine. It was the deadliest hurricane in Florida in three decades and is blamed directly and

indirectly for hundreds of Florida nursing home deaths. But Tampa Bay was spared a direct hit. Irma weakened to a Category 1 storm as it passed east of the region, over land. In the bay area, that storm is most remembered for causing blackouts that lasted for days. Now imagine the devastation Irma could have inflicted had it come through the Gulf of Mexico and made landfall on Clearwater Beach or Tampa’s Bayshore Boulevard as a Category 1 storm — during high tide. “No two storms will be the same,” Perkins said.

Myth 5

Masks won’t be needed in shelters Given the conspiracy theories, misinformation and bad-to-misleading advice surrounding the coronavirus, masks and vaccines during the pandemic, it’s not hard to imagine that bleeding over into hurricane preparations. Masks and social distancing will still be needed to prevent the virus from spreading in evacuation shelters, said Dr. Cindy Prins, an epidemiologist and the director of the University of Florida’s master of public health program. It will still be risky for the vaccinated and unvaccinated to crowd into shelters together without those measures. Much of See MYTHS, 8H

Tampa Bay Times | Sunday, May 30, 2021 |

Hurricane Guide 2021

Stay informed with the Times online BY JOSHUA GILLIN

Times Staff Writer

Coming off a historic hurricane season with a record number of storms, the Tampa Bay Times is using more ways than ever to keep you up to date on tropical weather. In the event a named storm is on the way, we’ll post news stories, photographs, videos, evacuation updates and more on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Reddit and more. Follow us at these accounts to get the latest: FACEBOOK: facebook.com/tampabaycom/ TWITTER: twitter.com/TB_Times INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/tampabaytimes/ REDDIT: reddit.com/user/TampaBayTimes YOUTUBE: youtube.com/user/wwwtampabaycom

On Facebook, we have a group dedicated to hurricane news and community discussions, where you can post your own information, ask questions and interact with other members. Go to facebook.com/groups/timeshurricane/ to join. Keep in mind that we will change the name of the group whenever a major storm threatens Florida, so you

MYTHS continued from 6H the population still hasn’t been vaccinated, she said, including children. “Some of those folks may get vaccinated when we hit the heart of hurricane season, and some may not,” Prins said. “So it creates a situation where you don’t know who’s vaccinated and who isn’t.” Ideally, shelter managers should encourage, if not require, mask-wearing, she said, and establish distanced spaces for families to sit and sleep together. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also recommends that staff and residents of a shelter wear masks. That’s the plan in Tampa Bay: Mask-wearing will be encouraged and social distancing implemented in hurricane shelters in Hernando, Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco counties. The state is also ready to distribute masks and pandemic supplies to shelters if needed, and will reopen vaccination and testing sites in storm-impacted areas as soon as possible. Unvaccinated shelter residents should wear masks to protect themselves, Prins said, and vaccinated residents should consider it as an extra safety measure, espe-

also can search for our group by the storm’s name. On tampabay.com, we’re still keeping track of COVID19 news and precautions, including how getting supplies, evacuating or hunkering down may be affected. All of our coronavirus news can be found at tampabay.com/coronavirus. We also have an entire section on our website dedicated to hurricane preparation, tracking the latest storms, local emergency orders and evacuations, and covering the aftermath at tampabay.com/hurricane. If you want to get the latest hurricane stories without searching for them, sign up for desktop notifications about the most important stories we’re publishing. Turn on these notifications when you see a pop-up window on tampabay. com asking if you’d like to get them. Click “allow” when you see the box in your browser, and you’re all set. We also can keep you informed through our news app, which provides mobile notifications through your phone or tablet. You can download it through your favorite app store, or go to tampabay.com/times-apps/. You can then customize the app to get the notifications you want in a storm, including news and weather alerts. Contact Joshua Gillin at jgillin@tampabay.com. Follow @jpgillin

cially in common areas such as bathrooms or dining areas. “I think I would probably be wearing one personally if I were going there,” said the epidemiologist, who is fully vaccinated. “I would just keep that mask handy.”

Myth 6

Sandbags stop flooding It’s not that sandbags are useless during a storm, said Pasco County Emergency Management Director Andrew Fossa. It’s that they’re best used under limited circumstances. But too many people don’t understand that. “Stacking them on top of each other is not going Andrew to keep the water from Fossa. going into your house,” he said. “The water will eventually get in there.” No amount of sandbags is going to save property from storm surge or flooding, especially if it lies in a low-lying flood zone where it could end up several feet underwater. Filling hundreds of sandbags would be a waste of time and energy that is better spent

| Sunday, May 30, 2021 | Tampa Bay Times

Hurricane season resources The Tampa Bay Times 2021 Hurricane Preparation guide and the latest news and information about this storm season is available online at: tampabay.com/hurricane. To learn about the emergency resources in your county, register for special needs shelters, sign up for emergency alerts and view online evacuation maps, use these websites and numbers: CITRUS COUNTY

PASCO COUNTY

bit.ly/citrusemergency Phone: 352-249-2775

bit.ly/pascoemergency Phone: 727-847-2411 Chat: MyPasco.net

HERNANDO COUNTY

bit.ly/hernandoemergency Phone: 352-754-4083 HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY

PINELLAS COUNTY

bit.ly/pinellasemergency Phone: 727-464-3800

bit.ly/hillsemergency Phone: 813-272-6900 The Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council has more hurricane prep information and local hurricane guides at tampabayprepares.org The Florida Division of Emergency Management’s guide to getting ready is at bit.ly/flaprepares The National Hurricane Center tracks every Atlantic storm at nhc.noaa.gov

preparing what’s inside for water intrusion — unplugging and elevating electronics, furniture and other valuables — and getting ready to evacuate. What sandbagging can do is keep minor flooding away from garage doors and doorways and prevent water from entering a structure. That’s a big help after a storm, especially when inconsiderate drivers plow through flooded streets and send water rippling into nearby homes or businesses. Said Fossa: “Sandbagging has a purpose if it’s done for that purpose.”

Myth 7

It’s never too late to get ready Too many Floridians think they can wait until the last second to get ready for a hurricane, said Hillsborough County Emergency Management Director Timothy Dudley Jr. But it doesn’t work like that. “The biggest thing is that you can’t wait until you see it on the news and then you’ll say ‘Now I’ll get ready,’” he said. “We want people to have a plan, to know where you’re going, know where your family is going.” Procrastination is the enemy of preparedness. A quick trip to the store might secure food and water for your family.

But all of the advice in the Times 2021 hurricane preparedness guide — assembling and backing-up important documents and photos; assembling a two-week supply of medications and seven days of food and water per person; creating go bags; preparing your home, business and yard for a storm; getting the pets ready; mapping out your exit routes, locating shelters or finding someone to stay with — will take weeks, not hours. In short, all of the advice in this hurricane preparation guide can’t be heeded overnight. But it’ll be worth it if Floridians are well-prepared before the storm, so they aren’t dependent on help reaching them after one. Dudley noted that preTimothy paring for a hurricane also Dudley Jr. prepares Floridians for other natural, or unnatural disasters, that could befall them. “You should be prepared all-year long,” he said. “You shouldn’t just wait until hurricane season.” Times staff writer Kathryn Varn contributed to this report.

Tampa Bay Times | Sunday, May 30, 2021 |

Hurricane Guide 2021

1921 hurricane reminds how destructive water can be I

t has been almost 100 years since the last major hurricane hit the Tampa Bay area. The 1921 Tampa Bay hurricane — also know as the 1921 Tarpon Springs hurricane, named for where it made landfall — was a classic late October storm that MIKE CLAY formed in the Spectrum Bay warm waters News 9 chief of the western meteorologist Caribbean and swiftly moved toward the Gulf Coast of Florida. Making landfall with no warning as a Category 3, the 1921 hurricane was a worst-case scenario for Tampa Bay, pushing a huge storm surge into the bay. The surge was 10.5 feet in downtown Tampa and 8 feet in downtown St. Petersburg, doing mas-

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sive damage. The barrier islands went underwater and new passes were cut in the narrow islands. Remember, the population was only 200,000 in 1921 and communication was primitive. Miraculously, there were only six fatalities reported in our area. What does having a 100-year gap between major hurricanes tell us? First, it tells us that we can get hit by a major hurricane. But it doesn’t happen often. The odds are low but the consequences are high. It also tells us the extreme risk to life and property we have to be aware of from storm surge. Any hurricane (or strong tropical storm) moving in north of the mouth of the bay will push water into our coast and into shallow Tampa Bay. Areas you never imagined could flood will be covered by salt water. Water is the most dangerous part of a hurricane, not the wind.

| Sunday, May 30, 2021 | Tampa Bay Times

Photo courtesy of USF

Some of the devastation after the Hurricane of 1921.

Although tropical systems can happen at any time during the six-month hurricane season, historically the most likely time for

us is late in the season. The “Cape Verde” storms in August and September, which can wreak havoc on places like South Florida, Texas or

North Carolina, tend to miss us to the east or west. But late in the season, tropical systems can form in the western Caribbean and move toward the Florida coast. The most recent example was Hurricane Michael, a Category 5, that hit the Panhandle in October 2018. So on this 100-year anniversary, let’s re-examine our risk from storm surge. Know your evacuation zone, know your evacuation route and understand what a surge could do in your neighborhood. We are lucky, too, that there are many places in Pinellas and Hillsborough counties that are non-evacuation zones, meaning they are high enough that a surge would not reach them. Some are close to the water. Understand the old saying “run from the water and hide from the wind.”

Hurricane Guide 2021

DIRK SHADD | Times (2009)

Prepare before the storm. This is what you need BY JAMAL THALJI

Times Staff Writer

Floridians have spent the past 15 months getting ready — for the pandemic, for hurricane season, and for a hurricane during the pandemic. Hopefully that means there isn’t much left to do to get ready for this hurricane season. Make no mistake, however, the pandemic still affects hurricane preparations across Florida. Here’s a list of things you should have handy to stay safe from the storm and the virus at home, if you have to evacuate to someone else’s home, or the worst-case scenario: You need to go to an evacuation shelter.

Masks still needed The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that two masks per person (ages 2 and above) be added to every household’s hurricane kit. Even those who have been vaccinated should

wear masks if they have to crowd into an evacuation shelter. That’s because many are still not yet vaccinated, especially children, even though federal officials recently approved the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for ages 12 to 15. There’s also the 3 percent of the U.S. population with compromised immune systems who, whether vaccinated or not, remain vulnerable. So wearing a mask protects them. Hopefully more Floridians will continue to get vaccinated by the time storm season peaks in mid-August. But every shelter will likely see the vaccinated and unvaccinated huddling together. That’s risky, even with social distancing, so don’t take a chance. There’s also a psychological benefit: During a crisis, masks can help convey a sense of safety to others during what will undoubtedly be a tense time trapped indoors during a major storm.

Hurricane kit basics Every hurricane kit from now on will need pandemic supplies. That includes hand sanitizer made with at least 60 percent alcohol, bar or liquid soap for vigorous hand-washing and disinfectant wipes. Your shelter may already have these supplies, but why take a chance? And why wait in line? Help others by helping yourself. The time to buy pandemic supplies — and everything else a hurricane kit needs — is now, before a storm approaches. Use the checklists released by your county’s emergency management team. The Florida Division of Emergency Management (www.floridadisaster.org), the Department of Homeland Security (www.dhs.gov), and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (www.ready.gov/kit) also offer checklists. Hurricane kits should be designed to help those hunkering See KIT, 12 Tampa Bay Times | Sunday, May 30, 2021 |

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Hurricane Guide 2021 KIT, continued from 11 down in a shelter or evacuating to someone else’s home.

Seven days survival The state recommends that every Floridian have enough food, water, medicine and supplies to last seven days. That’s how long it might take for your area to be resupplied after a major storm. The state used to recommend keeping three to five days of supplies per person, but that’s no longer enough. When it comes to water, the general rule is that every person needs one gallon a day. Anything that holds and purifies water will come in handy: Plastic water bottles, plastic pitchers and personal straws that come with filtration systems will be useful, along with water purification tablets. Everyone should also keep a two-week supply of prescription or needed medications with them. In Florida, doctors can pro-

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vide a 90-day emergency supply of most medications. Try to have enough freezedried or canned food to last each person for seven days. Look for high–calorie, non–refrigerated food items like peanut butter, powdered sports drinks high in electrolytes and protein bars. Infants will also need seven days of formula, and those with special dietary needs also need to be ready. Keep supplies in portable coolers and waterproof bins. If you go to a shelter, everyone will need clothes, pillows, inflatable mattresses or sleeping bags, and anything else needed to stay comfortable. Board games and books can help pass the time. Tablets and handheld game consoles could run out of power.

Power up You’re going to rely on your smartphones, tablets and laptops even more during an evacuation. Charge up your power banks

| Sunday, May 30, 2021 | Tampa Bay Times

and don’t forget the cables you’ll need to keep everything powered: lightning cables, USB-C and mini-USB cables. Bring a surge protector with multiple outlets to the evacuation shelter to charge your devices and the devices of those you’re sharing space with. No one should be fighting for the two outlets on the wall. You should also bring the right cables and gadgets you’ll need to charge your wearable tech like an Apple Watch.

The little things The little things are so important. There’s no point in stocking up on canned goods if you don’t have any manual can openers. Have several on hand, just in case. Think about keeping a wrench or pliers handy, so you can turn utilities off when you evacuate and turn them back on when you return home. Remember that items like bat-

teries and certain foods should be refreshed every year. Emergency food stores, including pet food, baby food, infant formula and other dietary items should be replaced every six months. And, yes, buy more toilet paper while it’s still on store shelves.

Go bags Go bags are pre-assembled kits kept in backpacks that you can grab if you have just minutes to leave your home because of an emergency. These kits should contain the absolute essentials you’ll need: Medications, important papers, a back-up hard drive of your data and photos, necessary dietary provisions, wipes, spare glasses, everything you and your family or group will need if you have mere minutes to prepare to leave the home for several days. If you have older relatives, help prepare their go bags so they can leave at a moment’s notice as well.

Tax-free hurricane supplies Florida’s 2021 disaster-preparedness sales tax holiday is 10 days long and runs through June 6. During that period, these hurricane supplies will be tax-exempt: Coolers and ice chests under $30; powered coolers are not exempt. Dry-cell batteries such as AA, AAA, C, D and 9-volt batteries under $30 a package. Auto and boat batteries are not exempt. Flashlights, lanterns and other portable light sources for under $20. Fuel cans for $25 or less. Ground-anchor systems and tiedown kits under $50. Portable generators for $750 or less. Radios, two-way radios and weather radios for $50 or less. Reusable ice products for $10 or less. Tarps and waterproof sheeting under $50.

Hurricane Guide 2021

ASSEMBLY REQUIRED: YOUR HURRICANE KIT • Air horn, to call for help • Assorted batteries, including for hearing aids • Bleach to clean up mold • Camping gear • Can opener • Cash • Dust mask •Fire extinguisher • First aid kit • Fix–a–Flat tire sealant and similar products, in case storm debris shreds your tires • Hand sanitizer; personal wipes (disinfecting wipes, to be safe) • Hand soap • Local maps (physical, not digital maps) • Long-handle squeegees for scraping mud out of a flooded home • Laundry detergent, bucket for washing clothes • NOAA Weather Radio • Pandemic masks • Paper cups, plates and plastic utensils • Paper towels (better than sponges if there’s no water) • Pens and paper (don’t run down phone batteries writing stuff down) • Plastic sheeting • Portable air-conditioner that can be plugged into a generator • Portable camping stove

Here are some suggestions for building your hurricane kit. Buy an item or two each week during hurricane season and keep them organized and ready to go in case of an emergency. In a few years, your household will have a robust kit. Batteries, perishables and water should be replaced every year.

Times (2015)

• Portable power banks for smartphones and tablets • Powerful flashlight, laser pointer to attract help in the dark (Remember: aiming a laser pointer at an aircraft is a federal crime) • Radio, battery or hand-crank • Rain jacket and pants/ ponchoRags, sponges, mops for cleanup • Rubber boots • Seasonal clothing (in case of cold weather) • Several pairs of dry socks and backup shoes • Spare contacts and eyeglasses (also eyedrops) • Spare keys to homes, businesses and vehicles • Spray paint to paint address, insurance carrier on house • Sunscreen, lip balm, insect repellent • Termite bait and ant poison • Toilet paper • Toothbrushing pads (when water is in short supply) • Seven gallons of water per person (at least) • Sleeping bags • Water purification tablets •Waterproof matches and lighter • Work gloves and rubber gloves • Wrench or pliers, to turn utilities on and off

Tampa Bay Times | Sunday, May 30, 2021 |

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21. Bauder Elementary School, 12755 86th Ave. N,Seminole 22. Lealman Exchange, 5174 45th St. N, Lealman 23. New Heights Elementary School, 3901 37th St. N, St. Petersburg 24. Lealman Innovation Academy, 4900 28th St. N, St. Petersburg 25. John Sexton Elementary School, 1997 54th Ave. N, St. Petersburg 26. Boca Ciega High School, 924 58th St. S, Gulfport 27. Fairmount Park Elementary School, 575 41st St. S, St. Petersburg 28. Gibbs High School, 850 34th St. S, St. Petersburg 29. John Hopkins Middle School, 701 16th St. S, St. Petersburg 30. Campbell Park Elementary School, 1051 Seventh Ave. S, St.Petersburg 31. Melrose Elementary School, 1752 13th Ave. S, St. Petersburg 32. Jamerson Elementary School, 1200 37th St. S, St. Petersburg 33. St. Petersburg College Midtown Campus, 1300 22nd St. S, St. Petersburg 34. Gulfport Elementary School, 2014 52nd St. S, Gulfport 35. Thurgood Marshall Middle School, 3901 22nd Ave. S, St. Petersburg 36. James B. Sanderlin K-8, 2350 22nd Ave. S

South Pinellas County Shelters

1. East Lake Middle School, 1200 Silver Eagle Dr. #9101, Tarpon Springs 2. East Lake High School, 1300 Silver Eagle Dr. Tarpon Springs 3. Carwise Middle School, 3301 Bentley Dr., Palm Harbor 4. Palm Harbor University High School, 1900 Omaha St., Palm Harbor 5. Palm Harbor CSA, 1500 16th St., Palm Harbor 6. Palm Harbor Middle School, 1800 Tampa Road, Palm Harbor 7. Dunedin Community Center, 1920 Pinehurst Road, Dunedin 8. Dunedin Highland Middle School, 70 Patricia Ave., Dunedin 9. McMullen-Booth Elementary School, 3025 Union St., Clearwater 10. Clearwater Fundamental Middle School, 1660 Palmetto St., Clearwater 11. Skycrest Elementary School, 10 N Corona Ave., Clearwater 12. Belleair Elementary School, 1156 Lakeview Road, Clearwater 13. Ross Norton Recreation Center, 1426 S. MLK Jr. Ave., Clearwater 14. Oak Grove Middle School, 1370 S Belcher Road, Clearwater 15. Largo High School, 410 Missouri Ave. N, Largo 16. Mildred Helms Elementary School, 561 Clearwater-Largo Rd. S, Largo 17. High Point Elementary School, 5921 150th Ave. N, Clearwater

North Pinellas County Shelters

Gulf of Mexico

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32 35

Evacuation levels

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Pinellas County shelters and evacuation map

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35’

28’

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Pasco County evacuation evacuationmap and shelters map

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Tampa Bay Regional Reservoir

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somewhere with in the specified area.The hurricane warning is issued 36 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical-storm-forcewinds. | Sunday, May 30, 2021 | Tampa Bay Times

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Level A – Evacuate red areas and all Fort Lonesome manufactured home resident Level B – Evacuate red and orange areas and all manufactured home residents Level C – Evacuate red, orange and yellow areas and all manufactured home residents Level D – Evacuate red, orange, yellow and green areas and all manufactured homes

Potential storm tide height (feet)

GRANGE HALL LP

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Wind speed (mph) 74 to 95 96 to110 111 to129 130 to156 157 and over

Evacuation Evacuationlevels levels

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Gulf City

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Pasco County did not release a list of hurricane shelters. If the county orders an evacuation, the list of open shelters and their locations will be made available at mypasco.net Mangrove and shared via social media and media outlets. Call Pasco County Emergency Management at (727) 847-2411 if you need help. Point

Level E – Evacuate red, orange, yellow, green and purple areas and all manufactured home residents

Evacuation routes

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PascoCounty Countyevacuation evacuationmap routes Pasco evacuation and shelters map

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Pasco County did not release a list of hurricane shelters. If the county orders an evacuation, the list of open shelters and their locations will be made available at mypasco.net and shared via social media and media outlets. Call Pasco County Emergency Management at (727) 847-2411 if you need help.

Hurricane watch

An announcement that hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or higher) are possible within the specified area.The hurricane watch is issued 48 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical-storm-force winds.

Hurricane warning

An announcement that hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or higher) are expected somewhere with in the specified area.The hurricane warning is issued 36 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical-storm-forcewinds.

Saffir-Simpson Huricane Wind Scale Category1 Category 2 Category 3 Category 4 Category 5

Wind speed (mph) 74 to 95 96 to110 111 to129 130 to156 157 and over

Evacuation Evacuationlevels levels Level A – Evacuate red areas and all manufactured home resident Level B – Evacuate red and orange areas and all manufactured home residents Level C – Evacuate red, orange and yellow areas and all manufactured home residents Level D – Evacuate red, orange, yellow and green areas and all manufactured homes

Potential storm tide height (feet)

Level E – Evacuate red, orange, yellow, green and purple areas and all manufactured home residents

To 11’ To 17’ To 22’ To 30’ To 36’

Evacuation routes

Tampa Bay Times | Sunday, May 30, 2021 |

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Evacuation levels Evacuation levels Level A – Evacuate red areas and all manufactured home resident Level B – Evacuate red and orange areas and all manufactured home residents Level C – Evacuate red, orange and yellow areas and all manufactured home residents Level D – Evacuate red, orange, yellow and green areas and all manufactured homes

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Note: Not all shelters will be open. Check sheriffcitrus.org to find out which will open.

1. Pleasant Grove Elementary School, 630 Pleasant Grove Rd., Inverness 2. Forest Ridge Elementary School, 2927 N Forest Ridge Blvd., Hernando 3. Citrus High School, 600 W Highland Blvd., Inverness 4. Inverness Primary School, 206 S Line Ave. 5. Inverness Middle School,1950 Hwy. 41 N 6. Floral City Elementary School, 8457 E Marvin St., Floral City 7. WithlacoocheeTechnical College (Reception Center), 1201 W Main St., Inverness 8. Lecanto Primary School, 3790 W Educational Path 9. Lecanto Middle School, 3800 W Educational Path

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| Sunday, May 30, 2021 | Tampa Bay Times

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Level E – Evacuate red, orange, yellow, green and purple areas and all manufactured home residents

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Citrus County shelters and evacuation map

Potential storm tide height (feet)

10. Lecanto High School, 3810 W Educational Path 11. Hernando Elementary School, 2353 N Croft Ave., Hernando 12. Citrus Springs Elementary School, 3570 W Century Blvd. 13. Rock Crusher Elementary School, 814 S Rock Crusher Rd., Homosassa 14. Crest School, 2600 S Panther Pride Dr., Lecanto 15. Citrus Springs Middle School,150 W Citrus Springs Blvd. 16. Central Florida Community College, 3800 S Lecanto Highway, Lecanto 17. Central Ridge Elementary,185 W Citrus Springs Blvd., Citrus Springs 18. Renaissance Center, 3630 W Education Path, Lecanto

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Hernando County shelters and evacuation map

13 11 12

14 9

10 8

6 3

Em ergencyshelters shelters Emergency Evacuation levels Evacuation levels Level A – Evacuate red areas and all manufactured home resident Level B – Evacuate red and orange areas and all manufactured home residents Level C – Evacuate red, orange and yellow areas and all manufactured home residents Level D – Evacuate red, orange, yellow and green areas and all manufactured homes

Potential storm tide height (feet)

Level E – Evacuate red, orange, yellow, green and purple areas and all manufactured home residents Evacuation routes

To 14’ To 23’ To 26’ To 32’ To 40’

Shelters with ADA accessible restrooms

Pet friendly shelters

1. Challenger K-8 School, 13400 Elgin Blvd., Spring Hill Special needs only 2. Deltona Elementary School, 2055 Deltona Blvd., Spring Hill 3. Nature Coast Technical High School, 4057 California St., Brooksville 4. Fox Chapel Middle School, 9412 Fox Chapel Ln., Spring Hill 5. Moton Elementary School, 7175 Emerson Rd., Brooksville 6. Chocachatti Elementary School, 4135 California St., Brooksville 7. Hernando High School, 700 Bell Ave., Brooksville 8. Springstead High School, 3300 Mariner Blvd., Brooksville 9. West Hernando Middle School,14325 Ken Austin Pkwy., Brooksville 10. Explorer K-8 School,10252 Northcliffe Blvd., Spring Hill 11. Weeki Wachee High School, 12150 Vespa Way, Weeki Wachee 12. D.S. Parrott Middle School,19220 Youth Dr., Brooksville 13. Winding Waters K-8 School,12240 Vespa Way, Weeki Wachee 14. Central High School,14075 Ken Austin Pkwy., Brooksville

Tampa Bay Times | Sunday, May 30, 2021 |

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Hurricane Guide 2021

Keep your pets safe by being ready ahead of time H

urricane season is here, which means it is time for coastal residents to begin preparing for the possibility of evacuating or sheltering in place with family and furry companions. Though this years’ evacuation plans may look a little different with many shelter locations and guidelines changing due to COVID-19, there DR. JAMES are a few rules that BARR always remain BluePearl the same when it Specialty comes to pet safety and amid a hurricane. Emergency As a general rule, Pet Hospital. what is good for you is good for your pet. If you are evacuating, be sure to take your pet with you to prevent them from becoming lost, injured, or worse. If you are sheltering in place, you will want to provide the same essential items that you would provide for yourself or family — those are water, food, shelter, and comfort. To reduce the chances of injury or harm to your pet this hurricane season, follow these expert tips.

Pets need hurricane kits, too

Whether evacuating or sheltering in place, you will want to include these items in your kit: • A crate or carrier large enough for your pet to stand up and turn

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around in. • Up-to-date pet records, including vaccinations, microchip, county registration, owner and family veterinarian information, and a photo of the owner and pet together. Securely place these items in a waterproof packet. • Food and water supply for a minimum seven days, along with bowls. During stressful times, pets may become dehydrated, leading to serious urinary tract issues. Make sure your pet is frequently drinking water to avoid a trip to the pet hospital. • A leash, collar, and muzzle (if needed). Pets should have a tag on their collar with their name, and owner’s name and phone number. Pet medications with refill (at minimum enough medication for seven days) and directions on dosing. This will come in handy if another person needs to step in to care for your pet. • Familiar toys or blankets to put in their crate or a kennel.

Plan a ‘pet friendly’ evacuation route

Follow local public health or emergency management officials about updated plans, such as shelter or road closures and openings. Keep in mind your normal shelter location may be different this year due to COVID-19. Find out if your disaster shelter or your cho-

| Sunday, May 30, 2021 | Tampa Bay Times

sen destination will accept pets. If the final destination is a friend or family member’s home, ensure they are comfortable with you bringing along your pet, especially if there will be other pets in the house. If additional accommodations are needed for your pet, contact nearby veterinary clinics, boarding facilities, or pet-friendly hotels. Most will require reservations. Identify accommodations, along with 24/7 emergency pet hospitals, on your evacuation route and outside your evacuation zone. Write these addresses and phone numbers down on paper and secure it in a safe, water-resistant place in case you lose cell phone power or service.

Know shelter guidelines

Pet-friendly shelters should be seen as a last resort. However, if you must go to a shelter, there are some important things to consider. You will need to provide up-todate vaccination records and your pet’s county registration. Also, make sure your pet is current on heartworm, flea, and tick preventatives. Typically, shelters are only equipped to handle dogs and cats. If you have a reptile, bird, guinea pig or pet other than a dog or cat, you will likely need to make additional plans for them. Keep in mind that cats and dogs

are usually housed in a separate area from people at disaster shelters. You also will have limited access to your pet, but will be allotted time each day to feed, clean and walk them. Shelters have limited space available, so call ahead to secure a kennel.

Be sure to remove any toxic chemicals and plants and hide any exposed wires. Vents and crevasses beneath heavy furniture may become “safe spots” for skittish cats and small dogs, so make sure to close small areas off. This will allow you to quickly grab them, if you need to evacuate.

Practice evacuating

Microchip your pet

Because your pet may behave differently during a scary and stressful situation, it is smart to practice handling your pet ahead of time. It is important to know where they might hide in moments of chaos. You may want to practice catching your pet, using treats, toys, or a blanket, if needed — anything to quickly get them out of harm’s way. You can also train your pet to feel comfortable in their carrier or crate by making it a cozy and safe place for them to relax at home. Have other members of your household practice evacuating with your pet, too, to ensure everyone knows what to pack, where to find the pet, and where to meet.

But be prepared to shelter in place too

If sheltering at home with your pet, make sure the room chosen is pet friendly. Select a room that is safe, preferably an interior room with very few windows.

If your pet becomes lost during an emergency, you will have increased odds of them being returned to you if they are microchipped. A microchip is a small, undetectable electronic chip that is implanted under your pet’s skin. Placement is no more painful than a typical injection and can be performed during a routine veterinary office visit. Microchips are one of the most reliable ways veterinarians and animal shelters can obtain pet owner contact information as well as vital information about a pet’s medical conditions. Remember, as the owner, are responsible for the care and well-being of your pet. Having emergency preparedness plans in place for both two- and fourlegged members of the family will help ensure everyone stays safe this hurricane season. Dr. James Barr is the chief medical officer of BluePearl Specialty and Emergency Pet Hospital.

Hurricane Guide 2021

With pandemic in mind, some medical advice for the storm A

s Floridians, we should already be knowledgeable about how to prepare for hurricanes. The 2021 hurricane season again includes the added difficulty of dealing with a global pandemic, making it even more important to prepare yourself and your family medically, situationally DR. KARNA and physically. PATEL Medical prepaTampa ration includes General having the critical Hospital things that anyone (especially those living with chronic conditions or who rely on certain medications) should have on hand during a hurricane. These items can include a stocked first aid kit, medicines, and necessary medical devices. First aid kits can house endless supplies, but items that may take priority include: adhesive bandages, antibiotic ointment, instant cold compresses, aspirin and a thermometer. It is also important to check expiration dates, especially on aspirin. A hurricane can often limit your access to pharmacies and drug stores. So, any medications you rely on daily should be kept in bulk. I recommend having a twoweek supply, but a month’s supply is preferable. If the medication has temperature requirements, be sure to make those arrangements. Do you have to have a cooler with ice packs? Do you need generator power? It is important to pay attention to your medical devices and their power sources. A medical device such as a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine for sleep apnea, a continuous glucose monitor, a nebulizer for asthma, etc., may run on a variety of power sources. Check to see if they can run on batteries and, if so, be sure to have extra batteries on hand. If

they are not battery reliant, make sure they are fully charged and/or have access to a power source. Those who frequently visit doctors or have underlying conditions typically have their medical records updated and stored in a secure location. I recommend everyone update their medical records and store them both electronically as well as in a water/fireproof lockbox. Keep usernames and passwords for various portals on hand for easy access in case of an emergency. By exploring your access to medical care, you will be able to answer questions like: what if something happens during or after the storm that necessitates a consultation with a primary care provider or specialist? Telemedicine could be the difference for timely and effective care. Make sure your phone, tablet, or computer is fully charged and that you have internet or cell service so you can connect with a physician. Have the proper apps downloaded and login information entered and securely stored for easy access. Last year, we were still learning how to conduct effective virtual appointments. Now, we have the tools and processes to connect with patients remotely including the TGH Virtual Health Kit. Be prepared by downloading the apps and creating the account now. Evacuation is the pinnacle of hurricane preparedness. Ask yourself the important questions such as: where are you going to go and how are you going to get there? Having options is important in case something falls through. The best option is arranging to stay with family or friends. If possible, avoid public shelters where large crowds may gather seeking safety. Be mindful that we are still in the midst of a pandemic and must remain safe from both hurricanes and COVID-19. This year, it is more important than ever to plan. Stay with people

you know or have been around. Try to stay with people in your cohort who have been fully vaccinated. If you are in a situation where you need to congregate outside your cohort, follow Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines: wear masks, practice physical distancing whenever possible and practice good hand hygiene. These practices apply to those of us who are fully vaccinated as well. New strains are always a concern, mutations happen, and there are still many unknowns. If you shelter with someone who is not immunized, consider treating them as you would someone who has the virus and implement a quarantine/isolation plan. Wear masks and try to avoid sharing items and common spaces. Always clean and disinfect common areas and shared items after use. Vaccines are available to those in Florida ages 16 and up. Get vaccinated as soon as possible as this is the best way to protect yourself from COVID-19. The vaccine helps to protect you but also those around you. When combined with CDC guidelines, such as wearing your mask and social distancing, vaccination serves as the best protection. Hurricane season can bring panic and uncertainty, but the best way to ease those nerves is to be prepared and ask questions now. We have come a long way in battling COVID-19 and this hurricane season is just another obstacle, but as a physician, I am confident we can stay safe together. Be mindful that these recommendations are fluid and consult reliable resources, including the CDC and FEMA, before a storm arrives to make sure your plan is up to date. Dr. Karna Patel is associated medical director and ACO Medical Director for TGMG Primary Care division. Tampa Bay Times | Sunday, May 30, 2021 |

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Hurricane Guide 2021

Protect property from trees, wind, water — and underinsurance BY JAMAL THALJI

Times Staff Writer

There are two ways to protect your property before a hurricane or tropical storm makes landfall: Call your insurance agent and take care of any repairs before a storm hits. The start of storm season is a good time to check with your agent and make sure you’re covered for the most recent valuation of your property and possessions. Make sure your policy covers recent improvements and any increase in your property’s value in this hot real estate market. And remember: Home policies don’t cover flooding or storm-related water damage. You need a separate flood insurance policy for that. Those don’t take effect for 30 days, so don’t delay. Doors, windows and the roof are most vulnerable. If they’re damaged or failing, it’s time to re-seal, repair or perhaps even replace them. If they fail, they’ll allow wind and water to enter and severely damage your home. Your garage door is another possible way for powerful winds to invade your home. Consider bracing or reinforcing your garage door with a kit from a home improvement store.

Tax-exempt If you’re thinking about replacing those features of your house, the state offers a bit of an incentive to get it done now. Residential owners don’t pay sales tax when they buy new impact-resistant doors, windows and garage doors during Florida’s 10-day disaster-preparedness sales tax holiday. It runs through June 6.

Start at the top The roof is the most critical part

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of your house during a storm. How well it holds up will dictate how well your home holds up. Shingles or roof tiles that are wearing out or missing should be replaced and any leaks should be fixed. You don’t want your roof to fail during a storm, and you don’t want to leave any weaknesses that a storm could exploit. And even if that old, leaky roof holds up, don’t be fooled: A strong storm could exacerbate existing leaks and damage.

Yard work Trimming trees and foliage will also reduce the number of potential missiles a storm could use to damage your home or your neighbors. But it should be done well before you are in a storm’s path. There are a lot of rules to trimming trees properly and power lines make it risky to do it yourself. Consider hiring professionals. Strong, healthy trees aren’t a risk, but damaged or weakened limbs are. Pruning trees allows the wind to flow through them. Healthy trees are more likely to survive storms. So are palm trees. The real dangers come from dying trees, trees with multiple trunks and newly planted trees that may not be able to withstand a tropical system. Look closely at any trees around your house big enough to cause serious damage if they fall onto it. If you see cracks, decay or suspect the roots are weakened, remove it. If you wait until a storm shows up to start trimming your yard, it’s too late. You don’t want to stack up yard waste at the curb and then waste collection is canceled.

Identified flying objects The next step is to protect your

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Hurricane Guide 2021

It takes time, so don’t wait to plan evacuation I f a major storm heads towards the Tampa Bay area, one option for residents will be to get out of town. But remember that this might not be simple or easy after a storm. If a Category 3 storm hit us, it’s important to know that many of the area’s main arteries — such as Gandy Boulevard, Courtney Campbell Causeway, U.S. 41 from East Tampa SEAN to State Road 674 SULLIVAN and U.S. 19 in parts Executive of north Pinellas Director County and Pasco Tampa Bay County — could Regional become impassible. Planning In 2 0 1 9 , t h e Council Ta m p a Bay Regional Planning Council, along with Metropolitan Planning Organizations from Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas counties, participated in a transportation study called “Resilient Tampa Bay.” The study showed that wind, debris, heavy rain and flooding could impair or even disable many major transportation links in our area if there’s a major storm. Unfortunately, this situation isn’t going to be fixed anytime soon, given that sufficiently addressing these issues could cost more than an estimated $4.7 billion. So as our local, state and federal government agencies consider ways to improve our transportation network, it’s important for residents to make plans for potential travel now, as hurricane season begins. FIRST, HERE ARE FIVE THINGS TO THINK ABOUT AHEAD OF TIME:

If you decide to leave town, make the decision early: The last thing you want to do is to be driving when a storm draws close, which could lead to everything from unsafe driving conditions to

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running out of gas if service stations are closed. Plan your route ahead of time: If possible, follow the suggested hurricane route. This is where emergency personnel work to ensure that there is food, water and fuel along the way. Study the routes in your county’s hurricane preparedness materials so you know which roads you would travel. Evacuate if you are told to do so: Emergency personnel will not be able to get into an evacuated zone during a storm and for hours, or even days, after a major storm, so it’s critical that you leave if you’re told to. Prepare your vehicle ahead of time: Make sure you have a full tank of gas, properly inflated tires and a well-maintained vehicle. And have a hurricane kit on hand that includes such things as food, medication, flares, important documents, a flashlight, rain ponchos and basic car repair tools. Have paper maps in your vehicle: In a worst-case scenario, cell service could be down, rendering GPS mapping useless. So have paper maps on hand as a backup. AND HERE ARE SIX THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND IF YOU DECIDE TO HIT THE ROAD:

If you see a flooded area, don’t try to drive through it: Back up, and figure out a different route. There is no way to know how deep the water is, and each vehicle is different in how it may withstand water from underneath. Your vehicle is not a shelter: If there are extremely high winds or the threat of a tornado, your car is not the best place to be. Find shelter as quickly as possible if you’re faced with this situation. Drive even more defensively than usual: Remember that everyone on the road will be stressed, and be ready for other drivers to make unpredictable See PREPARE, 24

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Hurricane Guide 2021 PROPERTY,

continued from 22 home from unnatural elements: patio furniture, flower pots, broken tree branches, anything that tropical-force winds could pick up and throw at your home. Make sure there is nothing around your home or yard that the wind could turn into a missile. Store outdoor and patio furniture inside or in the pool itself (remove the cushions, of course.) Move your lawn decorations and potted plants into the garage. As if it needed be said anymore, taping windows doesn’t protect them. If you don’t have hurricane shutters, you can cover windows with plywood that is at least ⅝ of an inch thick. Having some tarps on hand will help cover up damaged areas after a storm. Buy that stuff and other supplies in advance. Don’t wait for the traditional run on big-box stores

Sandbagging Every time a storm approaches, residents line up for sand bags. But they may be exerting a lot of effort for minimal protection. Sandbags are limited in what they can protect, and only work if used correctly. No amount of sandbags will save a property from storm surge or flooding, especially

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continued from 23 moves, whether it’s to avoid high water or to deal with heavy traffic. Prepare for potential traffic backups: Interstates and major highways are often clogged as storms approach, so be ready for a much longer trip than usual. Make sure you have gas, and bring plenty of food and water in case you are stuck on the highway. Follow posted signs: If a temporary sign is diverting you from your usual route, there’s a reason: It probably means your usual road is impassible or dangerous. Don’t try to outsmart the emergency experts. Even if you are stuck in traf-

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in a flood zone. The best way to use sandbags is to keep minor flooding from entering doorways and the garage doors. If the water is inching up the driveway, and a careless driver suddenly plows through your flooded street, that could send water into your home or business. Sandbags can help stop that.

Avoid meltdowns A storm doesn’t have to physically affect your home to damage it. A lightning strike or a felled electrical pole can send thousands of volts shooting through your home’s voltage and fry your electronics and appliances. The best protection is a wholehome surge protector hard-wired into the electric service panel. A small percentage of voltage could still leak into the house. Make sure your TVs, computers and video game systems are plugged into surge protectors (power strips do not offer protection) or a back-up battery supply unit. Those devices only last 3 to 5 years, however. Some will stop working or give a warning when they no longer offer surge protection. If a storm is headed your way, if you have to evacuate, unplug that stuff. If you are in a floodprone area, don’t leave electronics on the floor and move them away from windows. fic, keep the kids in their car seats: It can be tempting to let the kids roam around the car if you are stuck in traffic, but that carries safety risks. For example, let’s say the car behind you mistakenly starts to move before you do — that would create a dangerous situation. As you consider your options as a storm approaches, remember that the key is to make the decision early on whether you’re staying or leaving. It’s always to safest to stay off the road, but if you feel that’s the best option, make sure you take the right precautions to keep you and your family safe. Sean Sullivan is executive director of the Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council.

Hurricane Guide 2021

Protect your data, documents, photos BY JAMAL THALJI

Times Staff Writer

Protecting your property, possessions and business requires more than standing in line for plywood at Lowe’s or putting away your lawn furniture. It means assembling and protecting your most important documents and photos and creating several backups of your most important data files.

Checklist time The first step is figuring out what you need to protect, and doing so well before an evacuation is imminent. Create a checklist of the important documents — personal, medical, financial and property — that you need to preserve and protect. You should also gather the most important physical copies of your family and personal photos. Below are suggestions for what to preserve and how. You’ll want to store these records two ways: Physically and digitally.

One word: plastics Store physical copies of documents, photos and digital storage devices in waterproof containers or bags. But don’t just use Tupperware. Buy bags and bins that are sturdy and waterproof. Ziploc bags work but they’re cheap and disposable. Think about waterproof and fireproof bags, cases and organizers. The most important storage device you’ll carry with you is your smartphone. Make sure everyone has a waterproof pouch to keep their device in, especially ones that come with neck straps. If you have a waterproof, fireproof safe, leave it at home. Imagine how hard it would be to drag that heavy box into a shelter — and how obvious it would be. Keep valuable documents and data in a smaller, lighter container, one that will be more discreet whether

Preservation checklist Personal records  Birth certificates (especially for young children)  Marriage licenses  Social Security cards  Driver’s licensees, passports, military ID, any form of identification  Citizenship paperwork, green cards  Disability documents  Health insurance cards, coronavirus vaccination card, Immunization records  Prescriptions  Medical records needed for immediate treatment  Printed contact information for family, friends, neighbors, coworkers, insurance providers, medical providers and subcontractors.  Any hard-to-replace documents Financial and property records  Credit card numbers, PIN numbers, credit statements  Bank account numbers, checks, account statements  Deeds, lease or rental agreements  Investment, retirement account records  Property insurance policies  Tax records  Wills  Vehicle registrations and proof of insurance  Physical and digital photos of property and possessions (digital images stored on a flash drive or portable hard drive)

you’re staying in someone’s home or a school gym.

New, old media Treat photos, videos and movies

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like those important documents. You want to store them online and preserve some physical copies. While most of your photos may already be stored online, some older ones may exist physically

only. Those can be scanned, but losing the originals would hurt right? Again, choose a sturdy waterproof container. Figure out in advance which physical photo albums, photos, negatives, videos and old home movie reels you want to preserve. Make a list of the photos hanging around your home that you’ll need to grab during an evacuation. And don’t forget, you may not have cell service when your insurance adjuster arrives. Filing a claim will be a lot easier if you keep physical photos of your home, furniture and belongings with you.

Digital storage Storing documents and photos digitally is one of the most important — and thanks to cloud storage services, one of the easiest — ways to get ready for a hurricane. Use physical storage devices, such as flash drives or external hard drives, and cloud data stor-

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age services, that way you can backup your backups. The great thing about physical storage is that the devices are cheaper and smaller than ever, so it’s not a hassle to keep several ready. You could leave one at home (unplugged, in a safe place), in a safety deposit box or with relatives, and take one with you.

The cloud Cloud storage is like an external hard drive, but on the Internet. It’s being backed up somewhere else, so you don’t need to worry about losing the data if your home or business is damaged. Having a smartphone already gives one access to such services. Apple iPhones are backed up via iCloud and Android phones use Google Drive. You can also access cloud storage from your laptop or desktop. Along with iCloud and Google Drive, there’s also DropBox, Amazon Cloud Drive and Microsoft’s OneDrive. They all offer a certain

amount of free storage and charge monthly or annual rates for more hard drive space, but most won’t need that much storage. You don’t need a scanner to digitize every document, either. There are iOS and Android apps that can take a photo of documents and turn them into PDFs. The photos you take with your phone should be automatically backed up in the cloud (ask a knowledgeable person to double-check your phone settings for you.) Think about backing up your cloud backup by using two or more services (since they’re free) just in case something goes wrong with one service.

Last, but not least Keep enough cash on hand to get by for at least seven days after a storm. Power and communications will be down after a severe storm. Don’t count on credit cards or mobile payment apps like Apple Pay and Venmo working or banks being open.

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