Just before we went to bed last night, storm warnings were issued. We began the tedious process of moving indoors all the outdoor potential projectiles that double as décor and patio furniture. Hanging and breakable items are safely stowed away, while cushions and yard ornaments are secured in the dining room. It will be a drill that we will practice many times during hurricane season, especially when we are traveling. We’re not really worried about the house and roof – it’s all steel reinforced concrete and tiles. We also have high-impact safety windows, so there’s no need to put up shutters. However, the lanai structure is comparatively fragile and the screens subject to tearing. The biggest section ripped in the last major storm, but has hopefully been properly repaired and therefore less vulnerable. 

We’ve talked about installing drop-down steel curtains around the perimeter of the enclosed portion of our lanai. This would save a lot of hassle when it comes to protecting our patio furniture. A push of a button would lower them into position. However, they are very costly, especially considering the four large openings that need to be protected in our house. Some of our neighbors have them and generators, so they are much better prepared for the storm. The good news about hurricanes and tropical storms is that they can be tracked, so you often have days to get ready. We try to always be stocked up on food and water, but you never know what to expect. Plus, we’re looking at an “above normal” season. 

At first, the nameless storm was going to hit this morning.  However, conditions right now are very calm and I was able to get both my run and swim in without any problems. Now, we’re looking at mid-afternoon before the first signs of trouble. This is a tropical storm coming off the Yucatan Peninsula and headed towards Fort Myers. It’s apparently of greater concern than those coming from the Caribbean or Atlantic because the path to get to us in much shorter. They are also somewhat rare, so we’re all paying close attention to whether or not it gets a name or simply fades away anonymously. 

Hopefully, it will just generate a lot of rain, something we need badly to fill the canals in our neighborhood. Currently, the water levels are about two feet low. High winds are the greater concern for us in this our second June-November Hurricane season while living here in Florida. Batten down the hatches – a storm is coming!