Tropical Storm Colin hit Florida late Monday night, bringing maximum sustained winds of around 50 to 60 miles per hour, according to the National Weather Service. In the Tampa region, the storm caused power outages for 1,700 residents, while more than 10 inches of rain pounded north Tallahassee. While the storm is already predicted to move out to sea by later Tuesday afternoon, it will still bring powerful rains to the Carolinas. 

Gov. Rick Scott declared a state of emergency on Monday, June 6, before the storm made landfall later that night. Commutes and school activities were disrupted across the state as flood warnings were issued, making travel difficult as some roads were completely impassable due to standing water. Currently, there are no reports of major damage, but officials will continue to closely monitor flooding around the state.

Will 2016 be an active hurricane season?
Hurricane season in Florida ranges from June 1 to the end of November. While you need to protect your home every year from storms and hurricanes, Dr. Phil Klotzbach, Colorado State University lead forecaster, predicts this year will be the most active hurricane season since 2012. Klotzbach told The Weather Channel that he believes there will be 14 tropical storms, six minor hurricanes and two major hurricanes this season. 

Similarly, The Weather Channel predicts 12 tropical storms, eight minor hurricanes and three major hurricanes. If either of these predictions become a reality, Florida home owners will need to take extensive measures to ensure their homes and families remain safe in the coming months. 

What can homeowners do to protect their homes and families?
To protect your family during the hurricane season, make sure to be fully aware of your local hurricane evacuation routes and prepare a disaster supply kit. This kit should include first aid supplies, a battery-operated flashlight, cash, nonperishable food, critical personal information and any other essential items you would need, according to Department of Homeland Security. Creating an emergency communication plan with your family will also keep everyone protected and on the same page in the event of a hurricane or tropical storm.

Homeowners looking to be fully prepared in the event of a major hurricane should consider reinforcing their home. While many Florida residents use shutters or secure plywood over vulnerable windows and doors, you can do more to keep you and your family safe this season. Impact resistant windows are specially designed to remain durable again flying debris, high-velocity winds and heavy rain.

No matter what the weather throws at them this hurricane season, they will remain in tact and keep your home damage free. Contact a NewSouth Window Solutions expert representative today to schedule a free, in-home consultation about how hurricane windows might be just what you need this season.