Hurricane Season: It Ain't Over 'Til It's Over

Although we haven't seen much in the way of hurricanes this year in Palm Harbor, there is always the chance of a late season storm.

Most people think of pumpkin patches, cooler temperatures and costumed kids when October comes around. However, living in the sunshine state can have its rainy realities.

The Weather Channel reports that more than 50 hurricanes have struck during the month of October since 1851. Of the storms, 16 of them were considered severe being ranked Category 3 or higher.

Most recently, Hurricane Wilma rocked the the Gulf Coast of Florida in 2005. Wilma was a Category 3 storm.

According to The Weather Channel's Senior Meteorologist, Stu Ostro:

"On the one hand, the vast majority of hurricanes that hit the U.S. do so prior to October. In the past 50 years, more than 80 percent of them have. On the other hand, that’s not 100 percent, and there have been deadly and destructive ones late in the season, so we need to remain vigilant."

Believe it or not, October is one of the more dangerous months for South Florida. The Weather Channel reports that the most direct hits on South Florida take place during this month.

It doesn't end there.

The latest recorded strike was when Hurricane Kate hit a week before Thanksgiving in 1985. 

Experts advise that folks be aware of current weather conditions and stay prepared. East Lake Patch is here to help you out with that. Just download the free hurricane safety app from the American Red Cross.