Leslie Hudson
Multimedia MeteorologistLeslie Hudson is an experienced Multimedia Journalist and Digital Meteorologist whose career is marked by significant professional milestones. A trailblazer in the industry, she holds the distinction of being the first female AMS meteorologist in the Orlando market. Her extensive background in public safety and emergency management led to her being appointed by Florida’s Governor to the State of Florida’s Hurricane Catastrophic Fund Council from 2002 to 2007. Notably, she was the sole meteorologist in the state selected for this prestigious council.
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In Florida, hurricane danger does not begin at landfall. Outer bands, tornadoes, and worsening travel conditions can start hours earlier, making timing one of the most important parts of storm preparation.
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Tropical storm Arthur was short lived, lasting only about 6 hours. But forecasters are watching for increased flooding rain and storm chances across parts of Florida later this week.
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In Florida, the forecast cone is only part of the story. Hurricane impacts can extend far beyond the center track — reaching inland through wind, flooding, and tornadoes.
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Florida’s first big beach-and-boat weekend is also one of its easiest weekends to underestimate. Lightning can strike while the sun is still out nearby, thunder means you are already close enough to be hit, and the safest shelter is not a tent, pavilion, or golf cart.
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Florida’s rainy season doesn’t begin all at once, and it doesn’t behave the same way all summer. It tends to build across the state, then shift through three distinct phases.
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In Florida, hurricane preparation works best when it begins before the season ever tests it—even a small step now can lower risk and reduce pressure later.
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Clear skies can be misleading. In Florida, some of the most dangerous hurricane hazards begin after the storm—during cleanup, return, and recovery.
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During storm season focusing on protection during the storm is mission critical. And in Florida, that can mean wind, water, and tornadoes all unfolding at the same time.
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In Florida, evacuation and final preparations need to happen before conditions deteriorate—because the safe window often closes faster than expected.
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The forecast cone shows the likely path of a storm’s center—but in Florida, dangerous impacts often extend far beyond it.
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The best time to prepare in Florida is before hurricane season ramps up—when supplies, insurance decisions, and evacuation plans can be made without pressure.
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For Florida, hurricane season prep starts with understanding that not all risk looks the same. Hurricane impacts can include storm surge, inland flooding, destructive wind, tornadoes, and more.