POLK COUNTY, Fla. (WFLA) — After years of research and focus groups, the National Weather Service is unveiling new forecast maps for this upcoming hurricane season that will show watches and warnings in non-coastal areas.
“It gives folks the idea of how vast maybe the impacts are—to not just get caught up on the cone graphic, not get caught up on the centerline because impacts extend well outside of the cone,” said Matt Anderson, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Tampa.
Polk, Hardee and Highlands counties are no stranger to devastating impacts from hurricanes.
During Hurricane Ian, slow-moving, sustained rain caused flooding on the Peace River.
In 2004, three hurricanes, Charley, Frances and Jeanne, whipped through Polk County.
“Millions and millions and millions of dollars of damage. For us unfortunately in all three of those storms, fatalities, directly related to the storm,” said Paul Womble.
The new NWS graphics, available on their website and on social media, will highlight warnings and watches in all areas.
Previous maps only showed the “cone of uncertainty” and coastal warnings.
“Just because we’re inland doesn’t mean we won’t have impacts from hurricanes. People need to take that seriously. These new graphics help convey that message,” said Paul Womble, Polk County emergency management director.
The new maps are expected to be used in storms after Aug. 15.
NWS says this is an experimental year, so both maps will be utilized.
