Florida’s strength was tested this month with two back-to-back hurricanes slamming into the state in less than two weeks. The wrath of both Helene and Milton is largely behind us, but cleanup and restoration efforts remain in full force in Central Florida, as do the post-natural disaster revelations.
Here are a few things we’ve realized as the area comes out of the Helene-Milton experience.
The Majesty Building is here to stay
Whether we like it or not, the I-4 eyesore seems as though it will never fall. Credit: Photo by J.D. CastoLake Eola swans are more self sufficient than we think
These natural disaster experts held down the lake and came out of the storm largely unscathed. Credit: Photo via Lake Eola Park/Facebook
Listen to your local meteorologist, not an unqualified self-proclaimed “expert” on social media
Get off TikTok, listen to WFTV’s Tom Terry. Credit: Screengrab via Tom Terry/InstagramDisney adults will stop at nothing to breath in that sweet, sweet theme park airFaith, trust and pixie dust (and a poncho) are all they need. Credit: Photo by Seth KuberskyThere’s no shame in evacuating if you canSafety should be your main priority Credit: Image via FDOTLake Adair in College Park Credit: Photo by J.D. CastoSecuring a spot for your car in an elevated parking garage is a high like no otherFree fares, free protection. Credit: Image via Google MapsWhen traffic lights go down, it’s a four-way stopBut no one knows what that means, so proceed with caution. Credit: Photo via Orlando Police Department/FacebookFlorida will probably never willingly limit development in coastal areas”It is not the role of government,” Gov. DeSantis says. Credit: Photo via Ron DeSantis/X
Decorum goes out the door at a Florida gas station pre-natural disaster
It’s like an anxiety-fueled automobile thunderdome. Credit: Photo via ShutterstockJust because we’re landlocked, doesn’t mean we’re immune to floodingPreparation is key, no matter how stubborn you are. Credit: Photo by J.D. CastoThere’s no shame in seeking help. And it’s not hard to find it
Heart of Florida United Way, for one, offers a 211 helpline around the clock to provide info and support in Central Florida. Credit: Courtesy photoForcing employees to work during a hurricane (and active tornado warning) isn’t sexyPrioritize your workers’ safety, the cash flow can wait. Credit: Photo via City of Orlando/Facebook
FEMA disaster money comes from dedicated funds that cannot be used for other purposes
Don’t believe everything you read on an out-of-touch Facebook post. Credit: Photo via FEMA/FacebookNot getting the brunt of a direct hit doesn’t mean our power lines won’t take a tollNon-perishables, portable chargers and flashlights are your best friends. Credit: Photo via OUC/FacebookBack roads before the storm are good, back roads after the storm may be a bit more difficult to navigateDowned trees! Cluttered roads! Exposed power lines! Credit: Photo via Orlando Police Department/XSutton Place in Altamonte Springs Credit: Photo by J.D. CastoThe Florida Republicans who recently voted against FEMA funding should have to personally rebuild their constituents homesSurprise! Many of them want it now. Credit: Photo via Anna Paulina Luna/Facebook
