HIGHLANDS COUNTY

DIVISION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

6850 West George Blvd.

Sebring, FL 33875

863-385-1112

HIGHLANDS COUNTY RECOGNIZED AS “STORMREADY”

Americans live in the most severe weather-prone country on Earth. Each year, Americans cope with an average of 10,000 thunderstorms, 2,500 floods, 1,000 tornadoes, as well as an average of 6 deadly hurricanes. Potentially deadly weather impacts every American. Communities can now rely on the National Weather Service’s StormReady program to help them guard against the ravages of Mother Nature.

Some 90% of all presidentially declared disasters are weather related, leading to around 500 deaths per year and nearly $14 billion in damage. StormReady, a program started in 1999 in Tulsa, OK, helps arm America's communities with the communication and safety skills needed to save lives and property– before and during the event. StormReady helps community leaders and emergency managers strengthen local safety programs.

StormReady communities are better prepared to save lives from the onslaught of severe weather through better planning, education, and awareness. No community is storm proof, but StormReady can help communities save lives.

The following is from a letter received by Highlands County Emergency Management:

“On behalf of the West Central Florida StormReady Advisory Board, I would like to congratulate you on your successful application for StormReady recognition for Highlands County. Highlands County is the 35th county in Florida to be recognized as StormReady. As a result of your efforts, Highlands County will be better prepared to save lives from the onslaught of hazardous weather through better planning, education, and awareness. You may now wish to notify the Insurance Services Organization for possible consideration on property insurance rates.

Visit the StormReady Web Site at www.stormready.noaa.gov to see Highlands County on the map and read the latest information on StormReady.

Sincerely,

Ira Brenner

Meteorologist-in-Charge

National Weather Service - Tampa Bay Area”