Florida and Hurricanes….

Florida’s (USA) residents are no strangers to the relentless fury of hurricanes. Our experience last year, when Hurricane Ian loomed over Tampa Bay, serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of these storms. With Tampa Bay initially in the crosshairs as the area for landfall, we had to make the difficult decision to cut short our visit to son in Sarasota (just 25 mi south of Tampa). The urgency was real, as Fort Myers, 60 mi south of Tampa, ultimately bore the brunt of Ian’s landfall. The harrowing road journey through Fort Lauderdale to evade the storm’s path highlights the courage and resourcefulness required to navigate these situations.

This year, as we find ourselves in similar situation once again in Florida, Hurricane Idalia’s arrival demonstrates the capriciousness of nature. Fortunately for us, it veered northward toward the Florida’s Big Bend area sparing our location from the worst of its impact, with only rain and winds. The perseverance of Floridians is evident as they face such frequent challenges. While the current situation isn’t dire, the memory of last year’s upheaval underscores the ever-present risks.

Florida’s history is marked by memorable hurricanes that have left indelible scars. Hurricane Andrew in 1992 and Hurricane Irma in 2017 are etched in memory for the widespread devastation they wrought. The images of shattered homes and battered communities serve as a reminder of the destructive potential of these storms. And who can forget the catastrophic Hurricane Katrina in 2005, though it struck Louisiana, its effects were felt even in Florida.

Properties along the coastlines, beaches, harbors, and rivers bear the brunt of the fury, often sustaining substantial damage. These hurricanes have taken lives and shattered livelihoods, yet the residents of Florida remain undaunted. The remarkable ability to rebuild, the resilience to face adversity head-on, and the refusal to let nature’s challenges diminish their spirits define the essence of Floridians.

As August and September roll around each year, the anticipation of hurricanes looms large. But in the face of adversity, Floridians stand united, proving time and again that their determination is stronger than the forces of nature.

Guchi.