Nearly every Central Florida television news segment we have watched for the past two weeks has reminded viewers that Hurricane Season 2025 has arrived. Along with that reminder comes the many reasons why we all need to begin preparing for this season’s storms.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the forecast for the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season is projected to be “above average”, which means forecasters expect a higher number of storms, including increased intensity. Forecasters for this tropical season expect a range between 13 and 19 named storms, six to ten hurricanes, with three to five of those being category 3 or higher. Yikes!
In comparison, the 2024 season was clearly “above average,” featuring 18 named storms, and the first season since 2019 to have multiple category 5 hurricanes, with the highest ACE (an acronym defining the ‘accumulated cyclone energy’ measuring wind gusts) calculation in five years. Sadly, Hurricane Season 2024 brought Central Florida face-to-face with some of the strongest storms in recent history, including Debby, Helene, and Milton.
The Osceola Council on Aging prepares extensively, each year, for hurricane season. Annually, we update our systemwide hurricane plan which includes facility preparation, staffing assignments, and preduring, and post-storm support. These plans also include the Case Management and Nutrition Departments, which work to ensure our clients are prepared accordingly.
In addition, the OCOA, along with the Osceola County Emergency Management (EOC) and the Department of Health provide special needs shelters for residents with medical care assistance needs, including those who are electricity dependent. Please note, registration is required for these shelters. To apply, go to https:// www.osceola.org/Services/ Emergency- Management/ Emergency- Response- Plans/ Special-Needs-Program or e-mail specialneeds@osceola. org, or phone 407-742-9001.
In terms of storm preparation, the Florida Division of Emergency Management hosts a website, https://www.floridadisaster.org/planprepare/ listing pragmatic steps for storm preparation. A few of those tips include:
- Assemble a disaster supply kit including copies of important documents, flashlights, batteries, battery-powered radio, cell phone chargers and first aid kit.
- Gather at least seven days of nonperishable food and water.
- Organize a 14-day supply of medication and medical supplies.
- Carry a list of important contact numbers.
- Make sure to grab cash at the ATM in advance of the storm and fill your vehicle full of gas.
- Remember any special need items for infants, small children, elderly and or disabled family members.
- Stock pet care items if needed, including food, water, cages, leashes, and medication.
- Secure loose items around the home (outside) including additional preparation for windows.
Finally, if you or a family member need to evacuate prior to a storm, but not considered in the special needs category, the EOC, in partnership with Osceola Animal Services, the American Red Cross, and the School District of Osceola County offer pet friendly sheltering. Go to, https:// www.osceola.org/Services/ Emergency- Management/ Shelters for more information.
As with all shelters, locations and hours of operations are announced prior to any storm-related event. Sadly, hurricane season is one of the few drawbacks of living in this beautiful state in comparison to the myriad of advantages. It can be a time of stress, both personally and professionally. But we are all in this together, so let us all work together as we prepare for this above average hurricane season. Stay safe out there!
