Outreach Locations

Florida's climate varies by region, with the northern and central parts experiencing a humid subtropical climate, while South Florida enjoys a tropical climate. A distinct rainy season lasts from May through October, with afternoon thunderstorms fueled by daytime heat. These storms bring heavy but brief rainfall.

Starting in October, Florida enters its dry season, which begins early in the month in the north and later in the month in the south, lasting until late April. During this time, mid-latitude storm fronts occasionally pass through, bringing light, short-lived winter rainfall to northern and central Florida. Winters can be quite dry, and in some years, drought conditions lead to water restrictions. Although most of the state rarely sees frozen precipitation, northern Florida occasionally experiences light snow or sleet a few times per decade.

Thunderstorms

Florida experiences more thunderstorms than any other U.S. state, due to its position between two warm bodies of water—the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. Sea breezes from these waters push hot air inland, where it rises and forms towering thunderclouds that generate frequent and intense thunderstorms, often with dangerous lightning.

Some areas experience more than 90 thunderstorm days per year, making Florida one of the most electrically active regions outside the tropics. The state also has the highest density of lightning strikes in the U.S., leading to several lightning-related fatalities each year. However, lightning deaths have been declining since 1992, thanks to improved safety awareness. Construction workers and outdoor laborers are at the highest risk, though a significant portion of fatalities occur indoors, particularly among people using electronic devices.
Severe thunderstorms can bring heavy rainfall, hail, strong winds, and even tornadoes. Flash flooding is also a risk, especially during intense storms. While thunderstorms are most common in summer, they can occur year-round.

Tornadoes

Florida has the highest number of tornadoes per square mile of any U.S. state, though most of these tornadoes are weaker and shorter-lived than those found in the Midwest or Deep South. Stronger tornadoes do form, typically associated with cold fronts in the winter or spring.

Tropical Cyclones and Hurricanes

Florida is no stranger to tropical cyclones, with storms affecting the state year-round, except in March. Roughly one-third of these storms occur in September, with the majority hitting between August and October, marking the peak of hurricane season. Certain areas along the coastline are the most likely to experience hurricanes, with some of the highest frequencies of intense storms in the U.S. Hurricane season runs from June to November, with the highest activity typically in September and October.

Extreme Heat

Florida's intense heat can also pose a serious health risk, especially during the summer months. It's essential to stay hydrated, wear light-colored clothing, and seek air-conditioned shelter when possible. Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can lead to heat exhaustion, dehydration, dizziness, nausea, and in severe cases, death.

Rip Currents

Rip currents are a significant hazard in Florida, particularly along the Gulf of Mexico. These narrow, fast-moving channels of water flow away from the shore at speeds of up to eight feet per second, creating dangerous conditions for swimmers. Always exercise caution when venturing into the water.

Living in Florida means we're vulnerable to hurricanes and the associated risks, including strong winds, heavy rainfall, storm surges, coastal and inland flooding, rip currents, and tornadoes. Evacuations are typically triggered when there's a threat of a storm surge or the possibility of being cut off from essential services.

Hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. During this period, the local Chain of Command and Emergency Management Team closely monitor weather conditions to keep CAF families informed and prepared. If necessary, they coordinate evacuations to ensure everyone’s safety.

In recent years, the Canadian Detachment at Tyndall has had to evacuate a few times due to severe weather, with one significant event being Hurricane Michael on October 10, 2018, which directly impacted Tyndall Air Force Base.

When families arrive at post, they receive detailed briefings on how to prepare for natural disasters. This proactive approach ensures that everyone is equipped with the knowledge and resources to stay confident and well-prepared should an emergency occur.

For more information on disaster preparedness, visit ready.gov

Florida is home to a diverse range of wildlife, some of which can pose risks to humans and pets. Whether you're exploring the outdoors, enjoying the water, or simply living in the Sunshine State, it’s essential to stay aware of potential hazards from Florida’s native creatures and take precautions to ensure your safety.

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

Dangerous Wildlife

• Alligators: Alligators are common in nearly every freshwater body in Florida, including lakes, rivers, and retention ponds. While attacks on humans are rare, they can be aggressive if provoked or if they feel threatened—especially during mating season (April to June). It’s important to always keep a safe distance, avoid feeding them, and stay cautious near water, particularly at dawn and dusk when they are most active. Crocodiles, although less common, can be found in coastal brackish waters throughout South Florida and the Florida Keys.
• Snakes: Florida is home to several venomous snake species, including the Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake, Cottonmouth (Water Moccasin), Coral Snake, and Pygmy Rattlesnake. While these snakes typically avoid human contact, they may bite if startled or provoked. To reduce the risk of encountering a snake, wear closed-toe shoes when hiking or walking in wooded or grassy areas, stick to marked paths, and avoid reaching into dense brush or under logs where snakes may be hiding.
• 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. 

Daytona Beach aka the Motorsport Capital of the World offers an abundance of outdoor adventure opportunities often connected to the 23 miles of Atlantic Ocean Beaches. (Daytona Beach | City of Daytona Beach)

Known as the Flipside of Florida, Jacksonville is located on the Atlantic coast of northeastern Florida and is the most populous city in the state. Here you'll find quaint riverfront streets lined with boutiques, funky shopping and dining districts, live music venues, sidewalk cafes and sleepy surfer towns. (Visit Jacksonville)
 

Located closer to Cuba than to Miami, Key West is Florida's irreverent southernmost subtropical paradise, a unique blend of history, climate, natural beauty, cultural diversity, architecture and unabashed romantic appeal. (Florida Keys & Key West)
 

A coastal metropolis in southeastern Florida, Miami's metropolitan area is by far the largest urban economy in Florida and one of the world's most popular vacation spots. Here you'll find multiple professional sports teams, an international airport and the world's second-busiest cruise port. (City of Miami | Greater Miami & Miami Beaches)
 

Pensacola is the westernmost city in the Florida Panhandle and is best known for their sugar sand beaches and the Blue Angels Naval aerobatics team. (Pensacola Beach | Visit Pensacola) 

Located in Central West Florida, Tampa is a wonderful place to work, play, and unwind. With its mix of historic architecture and modern landmarks, a culture infused with Cuban and Spanish flavours, vibrant business districts and beautiful waterways, it's known for being a great city for all ages and tastes - including families, outdoor adventure seekers, and foodies. (City of Tampa | Visit Tampa)

Eglin Air Force Base