Storm Season 2010: Inside Florida's Severe Weather

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Find out the reason behind this year's record cold snap and whether it means anything for the coming hurricane season.

Bay News 9's team of meteorologists share their experiences, give a better understanding of wild weather we've had so far, and what we can expect the rest of the year. And, of course, tips to keep you and your family safe this hurricane season.

Additional Links

Severe Weather Stories

Frequently Asked Questions

In-depth Hurricane Information

Baynews9.com is your source for exclusive tropical weather updates, evacuation routes and shelters, storm preparation checklists and much more.

Tropical Activity

Keep a close eye on the areas where hurricanes form with our satellite views.Find even more resources in the Tropical Update section of our Weather Gallery.

Trust the power of Klystron

Klystron 9 will be able to provide incredible detail of tropical weather as it comes near the Bay area. And because Klystron 9 is the most powerful television radar, Bay News 9 will be able to better predict where the strongest winds will be headed.

Keep track of the 2009 hurricane season, which runs through November 30.

Evacuation Maps

Select your county to find out your evacuation level. (Polk County has no evacuation zones.)

Manatee County
Pasco County
Pinellas County (Don't
know your zone? Click here)

Hurricane Education

Get answers to your hurricane questions from the Bay News 9 Weather Experts.

Hurricane Resources

This information will help you decide what to do and where to go when a major storm approaches your county.

You can see what hurricane shelters are closest to you and a checklist of items you'll need to have handy if a hurricane hits.

The Red Cross helps you prepare
Evacuation and planning tips for the elderly and infirmed
Information on what to do with your pets before a storm

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Shelter is Golden may help you find a place to stay or connect you to someone who needs a place to stay during a hurricane.

Hurricane Memories

The Bay News 9 Weather Experts recall some of their experiences covering noteworthy natural disasters.

We want to hear from you. Join our discussion board and share your hurricane memories.

What To Do After a Hurricane

The moments after a hurricane can be uncertain if not frantic. But there are things you can do to keep you and your family as safe as possible.

Use a radio or weather radio to get information.
Use flashlights and avoid candles.
If you have evacuated, only return when notified that it is safe to do so.
Avoid floodwaters, especially when driving.
Watch for downed power lines.
Report safety hazards to authorities if possible.
Beware of spoiled and contaminated food and water.

Insurance Claims

Although the first concern should be safety, it is important to be aware of the need to act promptly when filing claims for damages inflicted to your property by a hurricane.

Have your policy number available.
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible.
Make a list of damages, photos help.
Fill out claim forms from insurance company and return them promptly.
Be sure you understand the claim process, if you are unfamiliar ask for a full explanation.
Contact your insurance company before an emergency to see if you are prepared if a disaster should occur.

More tips for what to do after a hurricane