Mark Philpott’s Post

Hurricane Idalia relief efforts. Two weeks ago, Sam and I made our way up to North Florida to spend sometime helping with relief efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Idalia. We helped distribute over 30+ truck loads full of supplies to: Madison, Perry, Keaton Beach, Steinhatchee, Cedar Key, Horseshoe Beach, Suwannee, Mayo, Old Town, and Live Oak. And distributed on foot to areas where cars couldn’t travel due to debris. We handed out everything from food and water, to solar lights, LifeStraw Goodwipes, socks, batteries, tarps; basically anything we knew could help people survive after surviving. Here’s the thing with these hurricanes. Coastal towns tend to run the risk of storm surge. These are serious. You can run from wind and rain, but you can’t run from water. Storm surges are misunderstood, mainly because people have a hard time imagining the ocean waters rising as high as 8, 10, 15, 20 feet and covering their entire home, but this happens. More often than we know about. Inland towns have a higher risk for tornadoes and high winds. Up in Live Oak, Madison, and Perry we encountered a great deal of downed trees and power lines due to wind. The thing is Madison is about 70+ miles inland which goes to show that storms like Idalia can still make a massive impact further inland. Perry got slammed pretty hard by the wind as well. They struggled with mostly downed power lines and tree damage but these things can be life threatening both during and after a storm. Downed power lines can be fatal if still active once they fall. When dealing with downed trees, you never know what kind of debris is surrounding it or where it will land. Some can land on homes, while others can block exits to safety. The chances of trees falling on home rises in these rural areas. When dealing with hurricanes, you always have to keep in mind the area you’re staying in to ride out the storm. Inland, think high winds, possibilities of tornadoes, falling trees, debris, and downed power lines. Closer to the coast, you want to think: storm surge, water levels, rushing water both in and out, heavy debris which can cause life threatening injuries, bacteria in the water, downed power lines, and sadly drownings. A storm surge can easily wipe out a home by the force of the water rushing in and out. Just remember, what comes in will rush back out. Older homes run the risk of being washed away by these waters. It’s always safer to move as far inland as possible when these storms hit. Your chances for survival rise the further away you go from the center of the storm. This doesn’t mean just the eye. You want to think about the outer layers of the eye which is where the highest winds are. Soon I’ll be posting a video to showcase what we keep in our hurricane box so you can be aware of what to keep on hand should you be involved in a hurricane event. @thirdwavevolunteers If you’d like to help us continue with our efforts, visit our wishlist in my bio.

Hurricane Preparedness Week! As we approach the warmer months it’s time to talk about the one thing both snowbirds and Floridians mutually hate… Hurricanes. Severe weather is something we often dismiss in the sunshine state. Year after year we see the same news stories claiming this will be the most active hurricane season on record. We always hope and pray these reports never reveal themselves to be true. Annual Hurricane parties are fun and all but in reality hurricanes are a force to be reckoned with. Devastation and destruction is all that’s left in the path of a strong hurricane. Businesses and homes throughout Florida and other coastal states have been brought to their knees from the dangers of past Hurricanes and Tropical Storms. This is why in the precursor to our 2024 hurricane season we must talk about what it means to be prepared. Firstly, preparedness doesn’t mean going to your local Publix and buying every pallet of zephyrhills they have to offer. A reserve stock of household/business necessities is a smart idea but let’s not overdo it afterall we’re all in the same boat. A good rule of thumb I like to follow is take your weekly consumption of neccesities and double it. This will keep you covered in the event of power loss, flood, or store closures for at least 2 weeks. Aside from material consumption let’s talk about property protection. When facing 70+mph winds a thin sheet of spare garage lumber won’t cut it against a mailbox flying at the speed of sound. A solid safety measure for cost effective protection would be the old fashioned board up. When boarding up windows and doors you need atleast 5/8” plywood and large enough for at least a 4” overhang on all sides. This provides solid wind and debris protection from the weak points of your home/business. Now since we’re talking about preparedness this doesn’t mean rushing to Home Depot or Publix when the storm is 40 miles off shore. It’s important to keep a good eye on the weather at all times throughout hurricane season. Moving on to more advanced and proven measures you can take. Hurricane shutters and impact glass. Two solid guaranteed methods of protection with th highest risk mitigation available. Hurricane shutters offer the same protection of the board up method with increased durability and higher wind ratings. With impact glass this is probably the most costly option, impact glass is capable of withstanding winds up to 170mph. In hurricane terms that’s category 5 or greater. For both options most installers will guarantee their effectiveness, so worst case scenario if they do fail you’re still covered. Aside from physical additions there are many other precautions you can take. Such as Truss straps, securing outside equipment/vehicles, and the most obvious a solid insurance plan. To end on a more positive note, a little hurricane humor for you. What do you get when you combine a card game and a hurricane? ……. A bridge over troubled water!

New Post: Hurricane Franklin Causing ‘Dangerous’ Rip Currents Along East Coast Where is the storm now?As of 5 a.m. Eastern, Franklin was about 200 miles north-northeast of Bermuda and moving east-northeast at 15 miles per hour, the hurricane center said in an advisory. Bermuda had discontinued a tropical storm warning.Franklin was producing maximum sustained winds of about 100 miles per hour, the Hurricane Center said, making it a Category 2 storm on the five-tier wind scale used to measure tropical cyclones in the Atlantic.More life-threatening surf and rip currents from the storm were expected along the East Coast of the United States in the coming days. Some beaches on Long Island, N.Y., closed amid rip currents and dangerous surf conditions, and at least one beach along the New Jersey Shore was closed, the local news media reported.“With tropical storms and hurricanes affecting our beaches on Long Island, we are taking proactive steps to protect New Yorkers, and I urge everyone to remain vigilant,” Gov. Kathy Hochul said in a statement.Franklin was blamed for at least one death in the Dominican Republic, and hundreds of thousands of homes were without power or potable water last week. At one point, 350,000 homes were without power, and more than 1.6 million did not have potable water.It’s one of two active Atlantic storms.Another dangerous storm, Idalia, battered small towns along the Big Bend region of Florida’s Gulf Coast after making landfall as a Category 3 hurricane on Wednesday morning. It was moving through South Carolina overnight. Follow the latest on Idalia here.We’re in the middle of the hurricane season.The Atlantic hurricane season started on June 1 and runs through Nov. 30.In late May, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicted that there would be 12 to 17 named storms this year, a “near-normal” amount, forecasters said. On Aug. 10, NOAA officials increased its estimate to 14 to 21 storms.There were 14 named storms last year, coming on the heels of two extremely busy Atlantic hurricane seasons in which forecasters ran out of names and had to resort to backup lists. (There were a record 30 named storms in 2020.)This year features an El Niño pattern, which started in June. The intermittent climate phenomenon can have wide-ranging effects on weather around the world, and it typically impedes the number of Atlantic hurricanes.In the Atlantic, El Niño increases the amount of wind shear, or the change in wind speed and direction from the ocean or land surface into the atmosphere. Hurricanes need a calm environment to form, and the instability caused by increased wind shear makes those conditions less likely. (El Niño has the opposite effect in the Pacific, reducing the amount of wind shear.)At the same time, this year’s heightened sea surface temperatures pose a number of threats, including the ability to supercharge storms.That unusual confluence of factors has made making storm predic

Good Morning, Great day ahead. Stay Cool The two weeks notice continues…… Of the coast of Africa will be a storm a storm larger than life, a storm that will be biblical. The storm will cross the Atlantic arriving near west of the string islands larger and forming. The biblical storm will cross east of Cuba and again west of Nassau, Bahamas. The storm will churn its way directly toward Dade County. Miami. The situation is about Miami. Miami, this is not a prediction, the biblical storm will happen. The idea of presenting a two weeks notice is that I would like to ask the Governor of Florida to declare a State of Emergency for Hurricane Preparedness only at this time. Miami you have time. I worried about your canal system and housing below 24 feet high. The idea is to rethinking and prepare for the storm. Canal systems are built sometimes to small meaning that during the storm your canal system will look like street curbs be washed away. Miami, building larger canal systems are better than many small canal systems. More later………all day writing event…..East of Homestead Near East of the Groves Miami and The Experts of Hurricanes - the biblical hurricane will be. The idea of hitting Miami is for needs of the people of Miami. Why and when did I know this? Why? Because I care. When did I know? Many years ago, and why tell now - because there is time. The canal system in Miami needs restructuring, and remember and I will describe the system of canals as a well braided haircut. Achitects can build on top of the canals. Of course Miami will not have time to rebuild an entire infrastructure of canals. But must start. I have seen hurricane experts not realizing the gift they have in front of them. Hurricanes have happened and when meeting to talk about hurricane preparedness do not be afraid of holding these incredible meetings outside at locations where hurricanes have happened. I do not have to present the list, but use the style of military tents to have these meetings outside in locations that hurricanes have happened. I will be sending a letter to the Governor of Florida soon. We have to be prepared, and when the hurricanes come this year, we will need to evacuate everyone. When the hurricane passes the Groves, the approach will continue into the city then the continued path will be a straight line across the state fast. Thank you, A two week notice on a State of Emergency for Hurricane Preparedness. God Bless. As a kid, I always want a President like me to be able to show and tell changes that need to be made for their people. Miami God Bless. My Bicycle map of Africa still means something.

2024 Atlantic hurricane season guide: Here’s what to know about this year’s storms https://lnkd.in/gGZKC8m4 With hurricane season upon us, We wanted to share some helpful prep tips for you and your families, courtesy of the CDC: 1. Gather supplies like emergency power sources, extra medications, and non-perishable foods early before they’re in high demand and you’re standing in long checkout lines. 2. Map out your evacuation plan and decide where you and your family will go should you need to leave your home. If you have pets, locate pet-friendly hotels or hospitable out-of-town friends who are happy to welcome all of your family members. 3. Update, gather, and print important documents. Store medical documents, wills, passports, and identification papers in a fireproof lockbox that’s easy to grab and go. 4. Consider elderly family members. Discuss your elderly family members’ health so you’ll have a grasp on their daily needs if a hurricane threatens to disrupt normal routines. 5. Review your insurance coverage. Remember, a standard homeowners policy won’t cover storm surges or flooding. At your request, I can run a complimentary review of your account to identify gaps—and check for any new discounts at the same time. (813) 708-0001 or (800)-329-0093 mystrongtower.com #StrongTowerInsurance #ChurchInsurance #UmbrellaInsurance #LifeInsurance #NonProfitInsurance #PlantCity #FL

Although hurricane season doesn’t officially start until June 1, 2024, it’s not wise to wait until June to start preparing for severe weather. Now is the time to help clients start thinking about upgrading their outdoor spaces so that MagnaTrack™ screens can be installed before hurricane season hits. With the added peace of mind, safety, and comfort—customers can enjoy beautiful outdoor living all year long. Whether you're working with a homeowner in need of screens for their windows, lanai, gazebo, patio, or garage—or you’re helping a business owner who needs screens for commercial applications such as restaurants, country clubs, or more—when your customers want premium protection during hurricane season, they want our Defender MagnaTrack™️ Storm System. These patented screens are built for unparalleled impact absorption from CAT-5 hurricane winds (sustained winds exceeding 156 mph). The Defender series also offers year-round protection from storms, insects, sun and glare, while providing the quality, durability, and reliability you’ve come to expect from MagnaTrack™ Solar and Insect Screens. Be ready for The Big One: For expert tips and prep steps to follow, read our blog "How Early Is Too Early to Prepare for Hurricane Season?"

Thinking About the Storm Ahead For those who are curious about how things are unfolding in Tampa as Hurricane Idalia approaches Florida: Having witnessed a few weather events here, I can attest from past experience that these events are unpredictable. While the models provide a general direction, even a minor shift west or east can drastically change the areas affected. Current projections place the storm north of us. This could potentially be beneficial for Tampa, but it also poses a significant threat. For context, the last hurricane, Ian, struck south of Tampa, resulting in a powerful vacuum that drained the waters of Tampa Bay, turning it into a vast mud flat. Now, with the potential of the storm positioned to our north, the opposite may occur. The rotation of the storm would be above, swinging towards us, potentially leading to a large and sustained storm surge pushing water into the Tampa Bay and its fluvial estuaries—where we live. Our home, situated on the waters of the Hillsborough River (connected to Tampa Bay/Gulf), is roughly 7 feet above the waterline. With a projected 10 ft surge, our home could be surrounded and filled with up to 3 feet of water. Considering potential debris and swift currents, this poses a considerable concern. Another factor that will be a consideration is that Wednesday there will be a "Super Moon" event that will layer in another vector of unusually high tides to the calculus. In preparation, we're sandbagging the entrances and relocating essential items from the first floor to the second. I've set up a sump pump, ready to help drain the house if necessary. We also have a whole-home generator ready for any power outages, with contingency plans to move it upstairs and use it on the balcony temporarily until the waters recede. The Good News Is: We have stocked up on food, water, and supplies. Power banks are charged, and we have hand-crank radios, flashlights, and various other essential items. We've coordinated with our uphill neighbor to move our cars to higher ground if necessary. Should the storm directly target us, we have an evacuation plan in place. Over the past four years, our family has excelled at cooperating and working as a united team during crises. My wife, Pam, remains calm and takes decisive actions. Our 16-year-old son, Cade, has matured into a dependable young man—both strong and level-headed. Bailey, our 11-year-old, contributes in her unique ways, uplifting our spirits and assisting wherever possible. This is a collective effort, and I am immensely proud of the resilience, grit and determination that our "Little Tribe" shows during challenging times like this. We kindly ask that you keep us, and all of Florida, in your thoughts and prayers. Rest assured, we're doing our utmost to prepare and safeguard our home and loved ones. Sending love from Florida, The Becks 🙂 #hurricane

🌀 Hurricane Preparedness Tips: Stay Ahead of the Storm! 🌀 Hey, friends! As we roll into the heart of the 2023 Atlantic Hurricane Season, it's time to make sure we're ready to handle whatever nature throws our way. Last weekend, we met Don, the first named hurricane of the season, but no worries – it posed no threat to coastal land. At Citrus Roofing Contractors, we're all about keeping you and your property safe. That's why we've put together a handy hurricane preparedness guide on our website – https://lnkd.in/eYsxXPDk 🏠🏢 From securing loose shingles to tidying up those overhanging branches, our article covers essential steps to fortify your roof and property against strong winds and heavy rain. Being prepared today means peace of mind tomorrow. 🌪️ We believe in sharing knowledge, so feel free to check out the guide and pass it along to your friends and family. Let's make sure everyone's got the know-how to stay safe during this season! Stay safe, stay prepared, and let's weather the storms together! #HurricanePreparedness #StaySafe #CitrusRoofingContractors #BePrepared

As summer begins to transition to fall, there’s another season that should be on people’s minds this month. Sept. 10 is the meteorological peak of the Atlantic Hurricane season. “We were very lucky that Hurricane Idalia didn’t do more damage here last week,” said Brandon Ellis, Georgetown County Emergency Manager and Director of Emergency Services. “Hopefully, we won’t have any more tropical activity come through our area this season, but we still have a lot of Hurricane season left and, statistically, we’re entering the busiest part of the season.” Historically, the number of storms rises during the period from late August through the month of September. Georgetown County Emergency Management is currently tracking Hurricane Lee across the Atlantic. It strengthened this morning and is now just shy of being a Category 5 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 155 miles per hour. Long-range forecast models show it should make a northerly turn next week keeping it away from our coast, but “we aren’t counting our chickens until the eggs hatch with this one,” Ellis said. “Even if Lee doesn’t directly impact our area, there will be indirect impacts in the form of dangerous rip currents and rough surf conditions,” he added. “We will continue to closely monitor Lee throughout the weekend.” Surf conditions could begin to deteriorate by the end of this weekend along our beaches. In the meantime, Ellis advises residents to remain vigilant and make sure their hurricane kits are ready. The best time to do that is before a storm is forecast to impact our area, he said. The worst storms in memory for South Carolina occurred in September and October. Hurricane Hugo hit near McClellanville on Sept. 22, 1989, causing catastrophic damage along the coast. Hurricane Hazel struck near Myrtle Beach on Oct. 15, 1954, permanently altering the coastline in Georgetown County. Learn more about hurricane preparedness at gtcounty.org/gcemd or scemd.org.