LEE COUNTY, Fla. -- A newly released study by AAA says 92% of Floridians are worried about the 2019 hurricane season up 19% from last year.
Early predictions indicate a near average season with about storms, but “it only takes one storm, that one storm may be the one that effects you, so you always need to be prepared,” said Chief Meteorologist Derek Beasley.
In the past three years, five hurricane’s have torn through different parts of the state, with Hurricane Irma hitting closest to home, and some still recovering from the damage.
“This was open, so these pieces of wood were gone, and there was just daylight coming in,” said Brett Cox, Cape Coral.
Some factors Fox 4 Storm Shield Meteorologist's are paying close attention to are increases in activity in the West African Monsoon and El Nino.
“The current El Nino that is going on, it looks like it is weakening some, but we do think it might have some influence on the season,” said Beasley.
It’s important to be ready by stocking up on emergency supplies, “batteries, water, generators, gasoline," said Dave Hingson, Cape Coral.
Knowing your evacuation route, making a plan, and securing your home.
According to AAA 62% of Floridian’s say they would only leave for a category three hurricane or greater, “if it’s mandatory evacuation, I’ll leave,” said Scott Junkin, Fort Myers.
And the report states 21% would ignore evacuation warnings altogether, “we just stayed here, we boarded up the house, and just stayed,” said Heather Somaru, Cape Coral.
“When the hurricane forecast tracks come out, if you’re in the cone you’re in danger, so pay close attention to the cone of uncertainty,” said Beasley.
