As the 2025 hurricane season approaches, Sarasota County is hosting an important event on Thursday, May 8, aimed at helping the community recover from last year’s storms and prepare for upcoming challenges.
Representatives from FEMA, the National Weather Service, the Small Business Administration, public works, and local food banks will be available to answer questions and provide guidance during this crucial time.
The event, titled Community Conversation: Hurricane Preparedness, will take place at 6 p.m. at Riverview High in Sarasota, with doors opening at 5 p.m.
Many residents are still navigating the recovery process, seeking federal assistance to rebuild from last year’s devastating hurricanes, including Debby, Helene, and Milton. “If anyone’s having trouble with their FEMA applications from last year, we will have specialists present to help guide them through any challenges,” stated Sandra Tapfumaneyi, Sarasota County’s emergency operations chief.
This year, emergency managers are focusing on improved methods to alert the public about storm surge risks and emphasize the importance of evacuation when advised. However, for those who may need to shelter in place, now is the time to ensure readiness.
“You should organize your disaster supplies and practice accessing them. For instance, if you have a propane tank for your camping stove, when was the last time you tested it? Do you know where everything is located?” Tapfumaneyi urged.
With hurricane season officially beginning on June 1, the forecast predicts a busy season ahead, with at least five major hurricanes and a total of 17 named storms expected.
Click here to pre-register for the event.
Key Information
- Event: Community Conversation: Hurricane Preparedness
- Date: Thursday, May 8
- Time: 6 p.m. (Doors open at 5 p.m.)
- Location: Riverview High, Sarasota
- Key Participants: FEMA, National Weather Service, Small Business Administration, local public works, food banks
- Focus: Recovery from past hurricanes and preparation for the upcoming season
- Hurricane Season Start Date: June 1
- Forecast: At least five major hurricanes and 17 named storms
- Pre-registration: Click here
Article original publish date: 2025-05-06 07:00:00
Article source: www.wusf.org
Read the full story at the original source: www.wusf.org
