Florida

Things to know...

• Weather & Natural Disasters

  The climate in northern and central parts of Florida is humid subtropical, while South Florida experiences a tropical climate. From May through October, there's a distinct rainy season characterized by air mass thundershowers that develop in the daytime heat, bringing heavy yet short-lived summer rainfall. The average year-round temperature is around 74°F (23°C).
  
  DRY SEASON
  
  From October through late April, Florida experiences its dry season, commencing earlier in the north and later in the south. Occasional winter rainfall occurs in the northern and central regions due to passing fronts from mid-latitude storms, while mid and late winter can bring severe dry spells, leading to water conservation measures in some years. Northern Florida may witness fleeting snow or sleet a few times each decade.
  
  THUNDERSTORMS
  
  Thunderstorms are common in Florida due to its positioning between the warm Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean, with sea breezes bringing hot air inland to form towering thunderclouds, resulting in frequent lightning strikes. While thunderstorms are most prevalent in the summer, they can occur at any time of the year.
  
  TORNADOES
  
  Florida experiences more tornadoes per square mile than any other state, although they tend to be weaker and shorter-lived compared to those in the Midwest or Deep South. Tropical cyclones and hurricanes are a significant risk, particularly between August and October, coinciding with the peak of the hurricane season from June to November.
  
  HEAT
  
  Heat is another hazard in Florida, with extreme temperatures posing risks such as heat exhaustion and dehydration. Rip currents, prevalent in the Gulf of Mexico, present a danger to swimmers, flowing rapidly away from the shoreline and requiring caution when swimming.
  
  RIP CURRENTS
  
  Rip currents are swift, concentrated streams of water commonly found in the Gulf of Mexico. Flowing rapidly in an offshore direction, perpendicular to the shore, they can reach speeds of up to eight feet per second

• Neighbourhoods

  Historically, CAF members and their families have found homes in Bay County, FL, which encompasses several communities surrounding Tyndall AFB. Some of these areas include:

  • Panama City Beach
  • Panama City
  • Lynn Haven
  • Callaway
• Critters & Wildlife

  Florida boasts a rich variety of wildlife, encompassing marine mammals like the playful bottlenose dolphin and the gentle West Indian manatee, as well as iconic mammals such as the elusive Florida panther and the formidable wild boar. Birds of prey like hawks and eagles soar overhead, while reptiles like the daunting alligator and venomous cottonmouth snake dwell in the state's waterways.

  However, alongside this natural beauty, Florida is also home to potentially dangerous creatures.
  
  DANGEROUS WILDLIFE

  • Snakes: Florida is home to many species of snakes, six of which are venomous, meaning they can strike and release toxins into your bloodstream. Most snake bites occur when someone attempts to handle a snake or gets within the snake's "strike zone". 
  • Spiders: There are two types of venomous spiders in our area, the black widow and the brown recluse. Preventative pest control measures can be taken by having your home and yard sprayed quarterly for these insects. 
  • Ticks: There are five species of ticks in Florida. Although all tick species can carry viruses and bacteria, these species are the main culprits - the black-legged tick (also known as the deer tick), the lone star tick, and the American dog tick. 
  • Marine Animals: It's also important to be aware of dangerous marine animals including sharks, sting rays, and jellyfish like the Portuguese man o' war that can cause severe pain, even death. 

  Understanding and respecting Florida's diverse wildlife is key to enjoying its natural wonders while staying safe from potential hazards. 

• Tyndall AFB & Surrounding Area

  Tyndall Air Force Base is located on the Panhandle in Northwest Florida. It is approximately 19.5km east of Panama City on the Gulf of Mexico coast. The Panama City Beach area is best known for its white sandy beaches, and emerald green water and is a popular tourist destination. The 43km stretch of beautiful beachfront is always open to the public and is a main attraction. The area is home to many beautiful parks that include nature reserves, recreation areas, historic sites and miles of trails for hiking, walking and biking. 
  
  Local Go-To Websites: Panama City | Tyndall AFB

• Education - Bay District Schools

  Bay District Schools - Bay County, Panama City & Panama City Beach Florida 

  Bay District Schools takes pride in supporting military families. Teachers, administrators, and staff throughout our school district recognize the special challenges for those who serve in the armed forces and fully understand it is the entire family who serves. Bay District Schools are a member of the Military Child Education Coalition (MCEC) and have a specific link to provide support to military families relocating to Bay County - www.bay.k12.fl.us/military.

  • Offers public, charter, catholic and Christian schools. 
  • The school year runs from mid-August to the end of May.