Central Florida is no stranger to the devastation that hurricanes can bring. In recent years, the area has been hit by several major storms, including Hurricane Ian and Hurricane Nicole in 2022, and Hurricane Idalia and Hurricane Helene in 2023.

Preparing for the Worst

State and local governments are warning people not to wait until the last minute to get hurricane ready. The Florida Central Operations Coordination Office is centrally located in Florida and has access to many of the main thoroughfares throughout the state, allowing for quick deployments of resources.

The office is housing 3.5 million gallons of water and 2 million shelf-stable meals, and is ready to respond to any disaster that may occur. Officials are also reminding people to have a plan in place, including knowing their evacuation zone and having a kit that can sustain their family for 5 to 7 days.

Florida has made everything from tarps and generators to batteries and shelf-stable food tax-free year-round, making it easier for people to stock up and be prepared. The state is also investing in ways to keep people safe during hurricane season, including building permanent stand-alone shelters in areas that are prone to flooding.

Nonprofit Groups Lend a Hand

Nonprofit groups, such as Lake Support and Emergency Recovery (LASER), are also working to help people prepare for and recover from hurricanes. LASER is a group that provides support and resources to people in need, including those who have been affected by hurricanes.

In Lake County, LASER has been working to help people who were affected by Hurricane Milton, which caused significant flooding and damage in the area. The group has been providing resources and support to those in need, including helping to rebuild homes and providing food and shelter.

Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.