Florida Officials Urge Hurricane Preparedness Ahead of Above-Average Season

As Florida prepares for the 2025 hurricane season, officials including Governor Ron DeSantis and U.S. Senator Rick Scott are urging residents to take proactive measures such as evacuation planning, stocking emergency supplies for at least a week, and knowing their evacuation zones. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecasts an above-normal hurricane season with 13 to 19 named storms expected, emphasizing the urgency of preparedness efforts. DeSantis highlighted Florida's strong emergency response infrastructure but criticized FEMA for inefficiency and political bias, calling for the agency to be overhauled and disaster relief funds to be distributed directly to states via block grants. He stressed that Florida's preparations always assume FEMA might not be available, underscoring the state's readiness to manage disasters independently. Resources like AARP Florida's disaster help page provide tailored guidance for vulnerable populations, including older adults and caregivers, focusing on evacuation and medical needs. Officials collectively emphasize that individual and community preparedness is crucial to mitigating harm and easing the burden on first responders during the hurricane season.