Let's Talk Myth Busting
Hey neighbor,
It's that time...we've have to discuss some hurricane myths. From when the season is most active to flooding misconceptions.
Fact vs. Myth: Hurricane Perceptions vs. Reality
Myth: "We haven't had a storm yet, we're in the clear."
Fact: The peak of hurricane season is mid-August through late October. Most major storms in Florida's history have happened during this window. A quiet start to Hurricane Season does not mean the risk is gone, it means the riskiest part is still ahead.
Myth: "I live outside the cone, so I'm safe from the storm."
Fact: The cone shows the average track error of the past five years, not where impacts will occur. Storms like Irma (2017) had effects far outside the cone, including storm surge on Florida's east coast.
Myth: "It's never flooded before, so it won't happen now."
Fact: Historic rainfall can overwhelm many area. Hurricane Harvey dropped 60 inches of rain, flooding places that had never flooded before.
Myth: "A small wiggle in the storm's track doesn't matter."
Fact: A 30-mile shift can mean the difference between minor surge and life threatening flooding. With Irma, the wiggle along Florida's coast meant 2 to 3 feet of surge in some places and 9 feet in others.
Myth: "I've lived here a long time and stayed through past storms, I'll be fine."
Fact: Every storm is different - track, size, and surge vary widely from storm to storm. Past experience is not a prediction of future safety.
Myth: "I only have to evacuate if I live on the beach."
Fact: Evacuation zones include barrier islands, low-lying areas, and spots near rivers or lagoons. Storm surge and flooding don't stop at the shoreline.
Myth: "Evacuation orders are just suggestions, I can decide for myself."
Fact: Evacuation orders are issued when life-threatening conditions are expected, they are not issued lightly. Choosing to ignore them puts you, your family, and first responders at risk.
The takeaway: Don't plan for what has happened, plan for what could happen.
Stay informed. Stay prepared
- Your Cocoa Beach Team
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