Home / News Archive
2010 News Archive
The articles below are archived from the Main Page of www.floridadisaster.org/index.asp. The archived articles remain on this page for an extended length of time so that the Main Page does not get cluttered.
02/04/10 - Operation Haiti Relief - Recovery Day 23
Florida-based disaster response teams continue to assist in the international response and recovery efforts from the 7.0 earthquake that struck Haiti on January 12. Today is day 23 of emergency operations both on the island nation and the Sunshine State.
Operation Haiti Relief - Recovery Day 23 Release
Previous Operation Haiti Relief Information
02/05/10 - High Risk Of Dangerous Rip Currents Expected Today In Walton, Bay, Gulf, Franklin, Nassau, Duval, St. Johns And Flagler Counties
Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging beachgoers in Walton, Bay, Gulf, Franklin, Nassau, Duval, St. Johns and Flagler counties to use caution today as a high risk of dangerous rip currents and high surf is expected along North Florida beaches. In addition to rip currents, large battering waves could impact the shoreline and a high surf advisory is in effect along the Panhandle coast from Franklin County westward through 7pm this evening. When red flags are flying beachgoers need to be aware that swimming in the Gulf of Mexico can be dangerous.
Rip Currents Expected Along North Florida Beaches Release
02/04/10 - Panhandle, North Florida Residents Urged To Use Caution As Flash Flood Watches Are Issued For Today And Friday
Florida emergency management officials are urging residents and visitors in the Panhandle and North Florida regions to remain vigilant near local rivers and use caution on area roadways as a storm system impacts the northern third of the state today and Friday evening.
This system will also bring widespread showers and isolated thunderstorms beginning this evening in the Florida Panhandle. Periods of heavy rains are expected with projected rainfall totals of one-to-three-inches and in a few counties up to four inches through Friday.
Flash Flood Watches Issued for North Florida Panhandle Release
01/29/10 - Emergency Managers Announce Governor Crist's 2010-11 Budget Priorities Support Preparedness
Florida Emergency Management Interim Director David Halstead today announced his support for Governor Charlie Crist’s Fiscal Year 2010-11 budget recommendations for the Florida Division of Emergency Management (DEM), recommending funds for programs that ensure all Floridians, and the communities in which they live and work, are prepared in advance of times of disaster.
"Governor Crist is committed to maintaining a 'culture of preparedness' across our great state," said DEM Interim Director David Halstead. "The Governor's approach maintains Florida's ability to prepare for and respond to disasters and their impacts on behalf of all residents and visitors during tough economic times.
By encouraging personal responsibility and community preparedness, Governor Charlie Crist's budget recommendations provide $247.0 million to fund all open disasters, $19.9 million for Pre-disaster, flood and Residential Construction Mitigation grants and $9.5 million for county emergency management operations.
01/20/10 - The 2010 Severe Weather Awareness Guide Is Available In PDF
The Florida Division of Emergency Management is proud to announce the distribution of the 2010 Severe Weather Awareness Guide. The Division sincerely appreciates the help and contributions of the National Weather Service and Florida Climate Center to this important guide for Floridians. This guide is intended to give Floridians and our guests to the state an overview of the different severe weather threats Florida faces throughout each year.
2010 Severe Weather Awareness Guide
02/03/10 - Operation Haiti Relief - Recovery Day 22
Florida-based disaster response teams continue to assist in the international response and recovery efforts from the 7.0 earthquake that struck Haiti on January 12. Today is day 22 of emergency operations both on the island nation and the Sunshine State.
Operation Haiti Relief - Recovery Day 22 Release
Previous Operation Haiti Relief Information
02/02/10 - Operation Haiti Relief - Recovery Day 21
Florida-based disaster response teams continue to assist in the international response and recovery efforts from the 7.0 earthquake that struck Haiti on January 12. Today is day 21 of emergency operations both on the island nation and the Sunshine State.
Operation Haiti Relief - Recovery Day 21 Release
Previous Operation Haiti Relief Information
01/29/10 - Florida Severe Weather Awareness Week, January 24-30
02/01/10 - High Risk Of Dangerous Rip Currents Expected Today In Nassau, Duval, St. Johns And Flagler Counties
Florida Division of Emergency Management officials are urging beachgoers to use caution today as a high risk of dangerous rip currents is expected along the state’s First Coast beaches today. When red flags are flying beachgoers need to be aware that swimming in the Atlantic can be dangerous. Swimming is not encouraged in these dangerous conditions.
“Beachgoers and surfers should be very cautious along area beaches today,” State Meteorologist Amy Godsey said. “It is important to follow the advice of local officials and avoid entering the water where red flag warnings are posted.”
High Risk Of Dangerous Rip Currents Northeast Counties Release
02/01/10 - Operation Haiti Relief - Recovery Day 20
Florida-based disaster response teams continue to assist in the international response and recovery efforts from the 7.0 earthquake that struck Haiti last month. Today is day 20 of emergency operations both on the island nation and the Sunshine State.
Operation Haiti Relief - Recovery Day 20 Release
Previous Operation Haiti Relief Information
01/30/10 - Statement by Governor Charlie Crist (01/30/2010)
Regarding the New York Times story Cost Dispute Halts Airlift of Injured Haiti Quake Victims
Last night, between 60 and 80 Haitian orphans arrived at Miami International Airport. Let me be clear - at no time has Florida closed our doors to those impacted by the earthquake in Haiti. To the contrary, Florida has been at the forefront of the crisis in Haiti - caring for the injured, reuniting families, comforting those who have been devastated by loss. I am proud of the continued contribution that we are making to open our hearts and lend our hands to those in need. This state remains committed to this effort, knowing that many Floridians are working 20 hour shifts to meet the enormous challenge.
We are grateful for the offer of help from other states as our hospitals become filled with those in need. We will need to shoulder this responsibility together in order to ensure that every crucial need is met.
01/31/10 - Operation Haiti Relief - Recovery Day 19
Florida-based disaster response teams continue to assist in the international response and recovery efforts from the 7.0 earthquake that struck Haiti earlier this month. Today is day 19 of emergency operations both on the island nation and the Sunshine State.
Operation Haiti Relief - Recovery Day 19 Release
Previous Operation Haiti Relief Information
01/30/10 - Operation Haiti Relief - Recovery Day 18
Florida-based disaster response teams continue to assist in the international response and recovery efforts from the 7.0 earthquake that struck Haiti earlier this month. Today is day 18 of emergency operations both on the island nation and the Sunshine State.
Operation Haiti Relief - Recovery Day 18 Release
Previous Operation Haiti Relief Information
01/29/10 - Operation Haiti Relief - Recovery Day 17
Florida-based disaster response teams continue to assist in the international response and recovery efforts of last week’s 7.0 earthquake in Haiti. Today is day 17 of emergency operations both on the island nation and the Sunshine State.
Operation Haiti Relief - Recovery Day 17 Release
Previous Operation Haiti Relief Information
01/28/10 - Operation Haiti Relief - Recovery Day 16
Florida-based disaster response teams continue to assist in the international response and recovery efforts of last week’s 7.0 earthquake in Haiti. Today is day 16 of emergency operations both on the island nation and the Sunshine State.
Operation Haiti Relief - Recovery Day 16 Release
Previous Operation Haiti Relief Information
01/25/10 - Florida’s Two Urban Search And Rescue Teams Deployed To Haiti Return To South Florida
Members of two Florida urban search and rescue teams were welcomed home by loved ones and friends after they landed at Miami International Airport Monday afternoon.
The two 72-member teams and four other U.S. urban search and rescue teams that were deployed to help with the biggest natural disaster in Haiti’s history, pulled 43 survivors from collapsed buildings in Port-au-Prince including a Pembroke Pines woman, who spent five days trapped in debris.
“We are proud to welcome the South Florida Task Force Team 1 and South Florida Task Force Team 2 back to Florida,” said Interim Director David Halstead. “These teams serve as a great example of resiliency in the wake of disaster. Their no quit attitudes and desire to save others while putting their lives on the line are attributes that should make all Floridians proud.”
Two Urban Search And Rescue Teams Return To South Florida Release
Previous Operation Haiti Relief Information
0123/10 - 2010 Severe Weather Awareness Week Poster And Video Contest Winners Announced
The 2010 Severe Weather Awareness Week Poster and
Public Service Announcement contest winners celebrate with
Professor Nimbus Tinkermeister at the kickoff street party at
Downtown Disney on January 23, 2010.
Florida emergency management officials today joined Radio Disney and partners to announce the winners of the annual Severe Weather Awareness Week poster and video PSA contests during ceremonies at Downtown Disney in Lake Buena Vista.
“This is an excellent way to celebrate the fine work of our future leaders,” said David Halstead, interim director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management. “This week is dedicated to helping all Floridians understand and prepare for natural hazards they may face in the Sunshine State.”
More than 400 students statewide participated in the poster and video Public Service Announcement (PSA) contests, through a partnership with the American Red Cross and Radio Disney. The top finalists’ artwork will be displayed in the halls of the State Emergency Operations Center during the first two weeks of February.
2010 SWAW Posters and Video Contest Winners Announced Release
01/22/10 - 2010 Severe Weather Awareness Week Is January 24-30
~ Public is invited to the grand kickoff event
at Downtown Disney this Saturday! ~
Governor Charlie Crist has proclaimed January 24-30, 2010 as Severe Weather Awareness Week, in Florida. This year the annual public awareness campaign included a poster and video PSA contest sponsored by five Florida area Radio Disney stations in Jacksonville, Miami, Orlando, Tampa and West Palm Beach.
2010 Severe Weather Awareness Week Release
Florida's Severe Weather Awareness Week Release
Severe Weather Awareness Week Proclamation
01/18/10 - State Health And Disaster Officials Provide Important Tips To Help Floridians Cope With Stress After The Haiti Earthquake
~Useful information from the Department of Health and the American Red Cross~
As Floridians watch the events unfold in Haiti, officials from the Florida Department of Health and American Red Cross want to remind residents that reactions to a traumatic event are quite common among all people. Some reactions will be mild while others may be so strong that they might cause difficulty in functioning.
Coping with Stress After the Haiti Earthquake Release
Taking Care of Your Emotional After a Disaster
Pran swen sante mantal ou apre yon dezas
Previous Operation Haiti Relief Information
01/17/10 - Florida Teams Help More Than 1,500 Survivors Returning To The U.S. Following The Haiti Earthquake
As of 9 a.m. Sunday, January 17, teams from Florida’s state agencies and volunteer organizations have aided in the return, or repatriation, of 1,518 U.S. citizens arriving from Haiti at airports throughout Florida.
“Our State team continues to work closely with federal officials to make sure that the needs of returning earthquake survivors are met,” said Interim Director David Halstead. “I am very proud of Florida’s responders who have, once again, answered the call when there are people in need.”Florida Teams Help More Than 1,500 Survivors Returning To U.S. Release
01/14/10 - Florida Disaster Medical Team On Site In Haiti
The FloridaOne Disaster Medical Assistance Team (DMAT) from Pensacola has deployed to Haiti to help earthquake survivors. The FloridaOne DMAT is comprised of people with expertise in the fields of medicine, mental health, communications, administration and logistics.
“We understand the critical need for trained, disaster-medical personnel and hospital resources in Haiti and the state of Florida will continue to assist both field and stateside services during this recovery process,” said Interim Director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management David Halstead.
Florida Disaster Medical Team In Haiti Release
01/14/10 - Florida Emergency Information Line To Open Friday At 10 A.M.
~Floridians can link to informational resources
on recovery efforts in Haiti~
The Florida State Emergency Information Line will open at 10 a.m. Eastern time on Friday, January 15 to provide Floridians a link to informational resources on the international response and recovery efforts in Haiti. The Florida Emergency Information Line (FEIL) will operate from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. until further notice. The number for residents to call is:
800-342-3557
01/14/10 - Florida State Emergency Management Team Responds To Haiti Earthquake
In response to Tuesday’s earthquake in Haiti, the Florida State Emergency Management Team has deployed personnel from around the state to assist in recovery efforts. The State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) is currently operating at a Level 2 or partial activation.
“We are continuing in our planning and coordination efforts with the federal government to be able to provide any needed assistance and resources to our neighbors in Haiti at this time,” said Governor Charlie Crist. “We know from experience that disasters have no borders and our state team is ready, willing and able to answer the call.”
FL State Emergency Management Team Responds to Haiti Earthquake Release
01/14/10 - Governor Crist Asks Floridians to Donate Wisely to Aid Survivors of Disasters
Governor Charlie Crist on Thursday, January 14, joined officials from the Governor’s Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service (Volunteer Florida) in urging Floridians to donate to survivors of disasters, including those in Haiti.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families impacted by the devastating Haiti earthquake,” said Governor Crist. “Now is a critical time for the people of Haiti, when monetary contributions are most needed. If you are in a position to contribute, I encourage you to work with an organization you trust.”
An effective way for Floridians to assist with relief efforts is to make a cash contribution to a humanitarian organization they are familiar with and trust. Information on identifying humanitarian organizations that are conducting relief operations and accepting cash donations for their efforts in Haiti is available by calling the Center for International Disaster Information (CIDI) at (703) 276-1914, or by visiting www.cidi.org.
The Governor also announced the activation of the “Neighbors to the Rescue” through the Florida Disaster Recovery Fund. The fund is Florida based and particularly aids in regional long term disaster recovery efforts. Donations can be made at www.FLADisasterRecoveryFund.org or by calling 1-800-825-3786.
Governor Asks Floridians To Donate Wisely Release
01/13/10 - State EOC Activates In Response To The Haiti Earthquake
The State Emergency Operations Center in Tallahassee activated at 9:00 a.m., January 13, Wednesday, to a Level 2 or Partial Activation in response to the 7.0 earthquake that occurred in Haiti Tuesday afternoon.
State emergency management officials are working with state, federal and international disaster officials to assist with response and recovery efforts for the island nation as needed. Operations, logistics, plans and human services teams are prepared to assist with any mission requests.
Governor Charlie Crist has been briefed by Interim Director David Halstead and state officials are currently cataloging resources that can be made available to the island nation.
Statement by
GOVERNOR CHARLIE CRIST
Regarding the Earthquake in Haiti
EOC Activation for Haiti Earthquake Release
01/28/10 - Florida Severe Weather Awareness Week, January 24-30
01/24/10 - Florida Hosts The Largest Assembly Of Communications Gear In The Southeast As Operation Radar Exercise Begins Today
~Over 400 participants and 140 pieces of high-tech communications gear in action~
The Florida Division of Emergency Management (DEM) and Florida National Guard (FLNG) will host “Operation Radar,” the largest assembly and evaluation of communications systems in the Southeast at the Camp Blanding Joint Training Center, Camp Blanding, Florida on January 25-29, 2010.
“Our goal during the week is to bring together the various technical teams from around the state and region to train and coordinate unified operations under real-world conditions,” said Interim Director David Halstead. “The ongoing events in Haiti serve to illustrate how important it is for responders from different agencies to be able to communicate with each other in a disaster.”Operation Radar Exercise Release
01/27/10 - Operation Haiti Relief - Recovery Day 15
Florida-based disaster response teams continue to assist in the international response and recovery efforts of last week’s 7.0 earthquake in Haiti. Today is day 15 of emergency operations both on the island nation and the Sunshine State.
Operation Haiti Relief - Recovery Day 15 Release
01/27/10 - Florida Severe Weather Awareness Week, January 24-30
01/26/10 - Operation Haiti Relief - Recovery Day 14
Florida-based disaster response teams continue to assist in the international response and recovery efforts of last week’s 7.0 earthquake in Haiti. Today is day 14 of emergency operations both on the island nation and the Sunshine State.
Operation Haiti Relief - Recovery Day 14 Release
01/26/10 - Florida Severe Weather Awareness Week, January 24-30
01/25/10 - Operation Haiti Relief - Recovery Day 13
Florida-based disaster response teams continue to assist in the international response and recovery efforts of last week’s 7.0 earthquake in Haiti. Today is day 13 of emergency operations both on the island nation and the Sunshine State.
Operation Haiti Relief - Recovery Day 13 Release
01/25/10 - Florida Severe Weather Awareness Week, January 24-30
01/24/10 - Operation Haiti Relief - Day 12
Florida-based disaster response teams continue to assist in the international response and recovery efforts of last week’s 7.0 earthquake in Haiti. Today is day 12 of emergency operations both on the island nation and the Sunshine State.
Operation Haiti Relief - Day 12 Release
01/22/10 - Severe Weather Awareness Week, January 24-30
01/23/10 - Operation Haiti Relief - Day 11
Florida-based disaster response teams continue to assist in the international response and recovery efforts of last week’s 7.0 earthquake in Haiti. Today is day 11 of emergency operations both on the island nation and the Sunshine State.
Florida's Response Team Making A Dfference In Haiti and Florida Release
01/21/10 - Florida’s Emergency Response Team Members Making A Difference In Haiti And Florida
Florida-based disaster response teams continue to assist in the international response and recovery efforts of last week’s 7.0 earthquake in Haiti.
“I want to congratulate our state – based teams for the incredible work they are doing under extreme conditions in Haiti,” said Interim Director David Halstead. “Their success clearly demonstrates the importance of having highly trained and well-equipped teams, and reminds us why we work so hard to be ready to answer the call where there are lives on the line.”
Florida's Response Team Making A Dfference In Haiti and Florida Release
01/15/10 - DEM Announces New Response Chief And State Meteorologist
~DeLorenzo returns to former post, Godsey promoted to State Meteorologist~
Florida Division of Emergency Management (DEM) Interim Director David Halstead today announced that Michael DeLorenzo has been named Bureau Chief of Response and State Emergency Response Team Chief (SERT Chief) and Amy Godsey as State Meteorologist.
“Mike brings an extensive background in public service and emergency management to the State team and we are honored to have him return to our ranks as Response Chief,” said Halstead. “Amy has been a dedicated member of our Meteorological Unit and a proven communicator while serving as Deputy Meteorologist. I am proud to promote Amy to the top position of State Meteorologist.”
New Response Chief and State Meteorologist Release
12/16/09 - Florida Emergency Management Encourages Kids To Participate In 2010 Severe Weather Awareness Week, Poster And Video Contests
State emergency management officials today reminded all Floridians that Florida Severe Weather Awareness Week is scheduled for January 24 - 30, 2010. This year, the annual public awareness campaign includes a poster and video public service announcement (PSA) contest which was announced in late November. The deadlines to submit entries for these contests have been extended into the second week of January 2010.
"The goal of the week is to educate our residents and visitors about the natural hazards they may face and provide important information to help keep them safe," said Interim Deputy Director David Halstead of the Florida Division of Emergency Management. "It is a team effort and we are proud to have many great sponsors who are committed to this week of outreach and awareness."
Visit the 2010 Severe Weather Awareness Week webpage for more contest details and information.
2010 Severe Weather Awareness Week Poster and Video Contests Release
Information on How To Enter
01/21/10 - Flash Report
01/16/10 - Flash Report
01/15/10 - Flash Report
01/15/10 - Executive Order Number 10-06 - Emergency Management - Haiti Earthquake
Governor Charlie Crist signed Executive Order 10-06 on January 15, regarding the State of Florida may be tasked by Federal authorities to utilize resources maintained by the State to support the international response to the Haiti Earthquake disaster.
01/11/10 - Weekly Report
01/05/10 - Governor Crist Issues Executive Order Number 10-01
Governor Charlie Crist signed Executive Order 10-01 on January 5, regarding the declaration of a State of Emergency due to freezing temperatures across Florida. This declaration will ensure that timely precautions are taken to protect Florida’s agricultural crops and citrus.
01/03/10 - Arctic Cold Front Brings Below-Freezing Temperatures To Florida This Week
State officials are urging residents, visitors and agricultural interests
throughout Florida to prepare for temperatures near or below the freezing mark throughout this
entire week. Temperatures could reach the lower 20s away from the coast across northern
Florida and near the freezing mark as far south as Lake Okeechobee.
12/31/09 - U.S. Small Business Administration Approves Disaster Loan Programs For Broward County
Governor Charlie Crist and Florida emergency management officials today announced that the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved disaster loan funds for Broward County residents and businesses in response to the severe storms and flooding that occurred on December 17-18, 2009
SBA Declaration Release
SBA Fact Sheet
01/07/10 - North Floridians Urged To Use Caution As The Cold Front May Cause Hazardous Driving Conditions Friday
State officials are urging residents and visitors across the Florida Panhandle to use caution as the next cold front may cause slick roads and bridges in rural areas during the overnight period into Friday morning.
“With the very cold rain and near freezing temperatures forecast to accompany the next arctic cold front moving into the state tonight, there is a possibility that some rural bridges and roads may have ice,” said Meteorologist Amy Godsey. “Residents and visitors across the region should use extra caution as they travel early Friday morning.”
North Floridaians Urged to Use Caution Release
12/23/09 - Cold Weather Safety Tips
- Have gas heaters and other gas appliances checked for leaks or damage.
- Check and clean air conditioners of dust that could spark a fire when turned on for the first time.
- Keep space heaters at least three feet away from furniture, walls and drapes.
- Never use space heaters in sleeping areas.
- Clean chimneys regularly and do not burn anything in the fireplace other than firewood.
- Burn candles in a sturdy holder and extinguish all flame when leaving a room or at bedtime.
- Keep children and pets away from any flame or fire source.
- Review and practice your family’s fire escape plan.
12/23/09 - Governor Crist Requests SBA Declaration for Broward County Flood Survivors
On December 23, Governor Charlie Crist requested a disaster declaration from the Small Business Administration (SBA) to aid Broward County residents impacted by the recent severe weather and flooding rains that occurred on December 17 and 18, 2009.
“A disaster declaration from the SBA will help our fellow South Floridians repair their homes and businesses following last week’s flooding,” said Governor Crist. “We anticipate our request will result in welcome assistance for those affected.”
Governor Crist Requests SBA Declaration Release
Governor's Request
01/07/10 - Flash Report
01/05/10 - Flash Report
01/01/10 - Flash Report
01/01/10 - Colder Temperatures Anticipated This Weekend Across Much Of Northern Florida
State officials are urging residents and visitors in Northern Florida to prepare for temperatures near or below the freezing mark across much of the Florida Panhandle, Big Bend and Nature Coast. Temperatures could reach as low as the mid to upper 20s away from the coast. North Floridians should remember the "Five P's" of cold weather safety. The “5 P’s” are: Protecting People, Protecting Plants, Protecting Pets, Protecting Exposed Pipes, and Practicing Fire Safety.
Updated:
February 8, 2010 8:54
