It’s been a tough year thus far, and the rest might be equally challenging as experts are predicting an active hurricane season.
That’s why the International Hurricane Research Center (IHRC) at Florida International University (FIU) and Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS) invite families across the nation, especially those in hurricane-prone regions, to explore this free virtual series, Eye of the Storm, launching today, June 2. The series is sponsored by IHRC and the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM).
“As a science museum that has weathered many South Florida storms, MODS serves as a community resource to help people in hurricane-prone regions understand the science behind the storm and how to prepare,” says Joseph P. Cox, president and CEO at MODS, according to a press release.
“The Eye of the Storm series brings together local experts with the most up-to-date science and information to help keep families protected during storm season. Special thanks to our partners FDEM and FIU-IHRC and so many others who collaborated on this important initiative.”
Typically held onsite at MODS annually, the 2020 Eye of the Storm event is a virtual series, which allows the footprint to expand beyond South Florida to other states on the Gulf of Mexico and the eastern seaboard at risk of hurricane landfall. Hurricane preparedness is vital for these areas, which have a deep history of hurricane landfalls, most recently Mathew (2016), Irma (2017), Harvey (2017), Michael (2018) and Dorian (2019). Hurricane season officially began on June 1 and runs through Nov. 30, peaking in late August through October.
The Eye of the Storm virtual series, which is free to all viewers, provides valuable information and tips on how to safely prepare for hurricane season. Topics include creating a hurricane supply kit, generator safety, insurance check-up, pet and boat preparedness, and mitigation shutter products to protect your home and business.
The series also features demonstrations and presentations by FIU Wall of Wind Researchers at the IHRC, NOAA Hurricane Hunters at the NOAA Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory (AOML), the NOAA National Hurricane Center (NHC), NOAA National Weather Service (NWS) – Miami Office, International Hurricane Protection Association (IHPA), Broward County Emergency Management (BEM), the City of Fort Lauderdale Emergency Management and many other partners.
To view Eye of the Storm, visit MODS’ YouTube channel and social media outlets (@modsftl) every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday in June.