UCF Hurricane Preparedness: A Comprehensive Guide

Hurricane season in Florida spans from June 1st to November 30th. While specific guidelines may evolve annually, the fundamental principle remains constant: preparedness is paramount. A tropical storm officially becomes a hurricane when its winds reach 74 mph or higher. Florida may experience periods without storms, however, developing a plan is always a wise decision. Unlike typical afternoon thunderstorms, hurricanes have the potential to inflict severe flooding, downed power lines, and blown transformers, which can lead to extensive power outages.

Understanding Hurricane Risks

Hurricanes are large storms that produce fast winds and heavy rain. It's crucial to understand the range of threats they pose to be adequately prepared. The National Hurricane Center serves as an invaluable resource for tracking storms and learning how to prepare, especially for those living in Orlando apartments or elsewhere in Central Florida.

Potential Impacts

Severe Flooding: Hurricanes can produce heavy flooding leading to structural damage and washed-out roads.
Power Outages: Downed power lines and blown transformers can result in extensive power outages.
Storm Surges: Coastal areas are particularly vulnerable to storm surges, where ocean water is pushed inland. While Orlando is situated inland, heavy rains can still lead to inland flooding.
Rising Water Levels: Rain can cause rivers and lakes to rise, creating dangerously fast currents.
Tornadoes: Hurricanes can spawn tornadoes that, while short-lived, can cause significant damage.

Essential Supplies for Hurricane Preparedness

When a hurricane warning is issued, it may be too late to gather supplies. Many stores could be closed or have empty shelves. Assembling an emergency kit well before hurricane season is crucial.

Emergency Kit Essentials

Water: Stock up on plenty of water, aiming for at least one gallon per person for a minimum of three days.
Non-Perishable Foods: Gather items that have a long shelf life and don't require refrigeration.
Lighting: Invest in battery-operated flashlights or lanterns, and don't forget extra batteries.
Gasoline: Fill your car's gas tank before the storm hits, as gas stations may be unable to refuel due to road damage or debris.
Medications: Stock up on non-prescription medicines, such as pain relievers and antacids.
Pet Supplies: If you have pets, ensure you have enough food and supplies for them to ride out the storm comfortably.

Preparing Your UCF Apartment

Proper preparation of your apartment is key to minimizing damage.

Apartment Protection Measures

Hurricane Shutters: Check with your apartment community office to see if they provide hurricane shutters. If not, inquire whether you can install your own.
Clear Valuables: Move belongings and valuables away from windows to prevent damage from flying debris.
Indoor Storage: Bring patio or balcony items indoors. Secure outdoor furniture and ensure exterior storage is waterproof or moved inside.
Flood Zone Awareness: Know if your apartment is in a flood zone. First-floor apartments are particularly vulnerable to flooding.
Utilize Covered Parking: If you have a private garage, use it to protect your vehicle from wind and debris. If you have a valid UCF parking permit, you may park your vehicle in either parking garage A or B to allow for adequate protection.
Renter's Insurance: Review your renter's insurance policy to ensure your personal property is adequately covered in case of damage.

Evacuation Planning

Having a clear evacuation strategy is essential. Orlando is served by several major routes, including Florida's Turnpike, Interstate 4, and State Road 50. Identify potential places to stay along your evacuation route and create alternate paths, as flooding and downed trees may force you to take unexpected detours. If you are moving to a shelter or ride-out location, you should be prepared to to be there for several days while the storm passes. Bring essential personal belongings and a book, game or other activity to keep yourself busy.

Evacuation Routes

Florida's Turnpike
Interstate 4
State Road 50

UCF Specific Guidelines

UCF’s Emergency Management team works to prevent, prepare for, manage, and recover from a variety of threats to UCF, including severe weather.

Communication and Notifications

If a serious storm or hurricane threatens our region, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and UCF President Alexander N. Cartwright have the authority to cancel classes or close campuses. To receive important updates, log on to UCF Alert using your NID and password. Also, log on to getrave.com/login/ucf using your NID and password.

Personal Safety Measures for UCF Students and Staff

UCF encourages students and employees to put together their own hurricane safety kits and to create a plan with their loved ones should a storm impact Central Florida. Be sure to notify your family where you are staying and that you are safe. Remind them that we could lose cell phone service and access to local phones in the Central Florida area.

Protecting Personal Belongings in UCF Housing

You should take measures to protect personal possessions that are left behind. The university is not responsible for loss or damage of UCF Housing residents’ possessions. Shut off all computers and save any important items. Lock all doors when occupants are not in the room or apartment.

Guidelines for Faculty and Staff

Faculty and staff should ensure their work space is protected and secure. It is highly recommended to bring personal belongings home with you in case your building or office sustains damage. If your office is student-serving, be sure to have signage indicating the space is closed and set phones as out-of-office.

Supporting the Community

UCF encourages you to remember that Knights Pantry is available to take donations of any extra, unneeded hurricane supplies. Knights Pantry relies on the support of the UCF community to provide food, toiletries, and clothing to students in need on Saturdays.

Resources for Businesses

Get A Plan: Assists businesses in developing a family and/or business plan utilizing the Florida Division of Emergency Management’s online templates. Every business should have a Business Ready “Records-To-Go” box that includes important documents and supplies necessary for business to continue after a disaster. waterproof.
Disaster Preparedness for Small Businesses Webinar: The Florida SBDC at Florida International University (FIU), a member of the Florida SBDC Network, has prepared a short 25-minute webinar with business preparedness tips.
Florida Virtual Business Emergency Operations Center (FLVBEOC): The FLVBEOC has been activated to a Level 1, a full-scale, 24-hour activation, providing businesses with valuable preparedness information.
Statewide Private Sector Re-Entry Program: Businesses should be aware that local authorities will require employees seeking re-entry to impacted areas to provide a driver’s license or passport, proof of employment or a letter on company letterhead, and proof of a demonstrated need to enter the area, such as a work order or employer authorization.

Expert Insights

Claire Connolly Knox, Ph.D., an associate professor in the School of Public Administration and serves as the emergency management and homeland security program director, has focused her research on emergency management, coastal hazards and coastal resiliency. Axel Stock, a marketing professor, has expertise in product scarcity. Their expertise provides valuable insights into preparing for and managing the impacts of hurricanes.

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