Weather
According to author and humorist, Dave Barry, "It always rains on tents. Rainstorms will travel thousands of miles, against prevailing winds for the opportunity to rain on a tent." While I don't camp in a tent, I will tell you that I've spent many a rainy day inside a cramped camping trailer or RV. Sometimes it rains. Sometimes you know there is a chance for rain and plan accordingly. Sometimes you are surprised... because sometimes the meteorologists simply get their forecasts wrong.One thing is certain. In Florida the weather is often unpredictable, particularly in the summer. While it is helpful to check weather forecasts in advance, sometimes camping reservations have to be made so far in advance that you simply must take your chance on the weather. It does help to know Florida's weather patterns so that you can "try" to avoid inclement weather, so here are some helpful tips:
- Hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30, but the most active months for formation of the storms are usually August through October. Plan accordingly and make sure any camping reservations made during this time period can be easily changed or cancelled without loosing your deposit. If you are camping during hurricane season, don't trust rumors. Monitor weather broadcasts and keep a watchful eye on developing storms. If asked to evacuate, do so immediately.
- Summer thunderstorms typically produce lots of lightning. Lightning is a serious risk and you should follow these outdoor safety tips:
- Follow the 30/30 rule. If the time between seeing the flash of lightning and hearing the thunder is less than 30 seconds, take shelter. You are in a strike zone.
- Immediately get away from pools, lakes and other bodies of water.
- Get off the beach.
- Never use a tree as a shelter.
- Avoid standing near tall objects.
- Keep away from metal objects including bikes, golf carts, umbrellas, fencing, machinery, etc.
- Get indoors if at all possible or get in a hard-topped vehicle.
- Remain in shelter for 30 minutes after the last flash of lightning.
- Florida's heat can be menacing. Use these tips to help beat the Florida heat. Also, Surviving Summer Camping in Florida offers expert tips from About.com's Camping Guide, David Sweet.
- While Florida's climate is mild, did know that it is possible to experience freezing temperatures during the months of December through February in Central and North Florida?
- You can learn more about what to expect during specific months of the year in these monthly guides to Florida's weather. They include helpful information, including average temperatures and links to 10-day forecasts for over 10 of Florida's most visited cities, as well as festivals and events.
