How to Manage the September Storm Surge
As hurricane season peaks, learn about proactive recovery efforts taken to minimize damages.
Hurricane season is about halfway through, and September has proven to be a month of surging storms. One year ago, Hurricane Idalia swept through northern Florida and this year Hurricane Francine took landfall over central Louisiana. Acknowledging the profound impact of these storms, among countless others, how can coastal communities brace themselves for a swift recovery?
In this article, we share some of the key lessons learned from the remarkable recovery efforts post-Idalia, which can be adopted by other Gulf states during storm surges this hurricane season.
The Intensification of Idalia
Hurricane Idalia, a Category 4 hurricane, made landfall on August 30, 2023, near the Big Bend region of Florida with maximum sustained winds of 130 mph. The storm’s ferocity was evident in its rapid intensification and the extensive damage it wrought across the Gulf Coast. Idalia caused significant flooding, widespread power outages, and considerable structural damage, particularly in coastal and low-lying areas.
In the aftermath, the task of response and recovery was immense, requiring efforts from numerous agencies and organizations. The Florida Division of Emergency Management led the charge, coordinating with local, state, and federal partners to address the urgent needs of affected communities. Critical support services were provisioned, and search and rescue missions were effectively carried out, prioritizing the safety and wellbeing of those impacted by the storm. The response required not only swift action, but also strategic logistical support, resource management, and technical expertise. Learn about APTIM’s role in recovery from Hurricane Idalia, including housing and dune restoration, in our 2023 Sustainability Report.
Lessons from Florida’s Recovery
Reflecting on the past year, the response to Hurricane Idalia highlighted several key lessons and areas for growth:
- Preparedness and Rapid Response: Florida’s experience underscored the importance of having a well-coordinated response plan. Being able to deploy response efforts and mobilize partners quickly was critical for long-term recovery.
- Collaboration and Coordination: The effectiveness of emergency response is greatly enhanced through collaboration. Partnership between state agencies, contractors, and other stakeholders created a strengthened, unified approach to disaster management.
- Resilience and Recovery: Although the storm surge happened over one year ago, community resilience and recovery efforts are ongoing. The progress made in rebuilding and restoring normalcy is a reminder of the importance of continued support and engagement in disaster recovery.
Recovering from Francine & Future Storm Surges
Similar to Idalia, this month’s Hurricane Francine was characterized by rapid intensification, storm surges, and warm ocean temperatures, but ultimately become a Category 2. As states in the southeastern US anticipate hurricanes that may afflict their communities, here are some actions they can take to address lessons learned pre- and post-storm and mitigate damages:
Pre-Storm Surge
Post-Storm Surge
Need Support With Your Community’s Recovery Efforts?
APTIM understands the urgency and complexity required to efficiently respond to storm surges and other natural disasters. As a leading provider of emergency management and disaster services, our mission is to support communities through their most challenging times. Our team of experts is dedicated to delivering comprehensive solutions for communities and organizations to effectively respond, recover, and rebuild from natural disasters.
APTIM. In Pursuit of Better.
Connect with APTIM
Subscribe to the APTIM Xchange Newsletter
APTIM's newsletter, The APTIM Xchange, provides industry news flashes, regulatory updates, service spotlights, and topical columns from our subject matter experts.