Hurricane Advice for Camp Hosts in FL

CarpeDiem · 08-27-2023, 06:31 PM

There is a small chance we may have to evacuate from a state park in Florida where we are Camp Hosts. There are a couple different scenarios. Of course, one would be pack up everything and go. But there is also an option for leaving the class A here and just leaving in the car. So my question is, leave it where it is around small trees to minimize wind on RV or move it into an open air parking lot with no trees around? Naturally, slide in all bays filled with water, etc. we are full time and this is home.

IOS 3 · 08-27-2023, 06:46 PM

My experience (career in insurance industry) says there is no right answer. We've all seen it all. I would suggest you consider whether you can stand a total loss. If you have "stated value" insurance, and the number is acceptable, you are probably ok leaving the rig. On the other hand, if you would receive a depreciated settlement in the event of a total loss, and you can't be comfortable making up the difference to replace, take the rig with you. The math is pretty favorable right now if you have stated value coverage... A new rig will be deeply discounted given the state of the market...

CarpeDiem · 08-27-2023, 07:14 PM

We have “stated value & contents) so I’m not overly concerned about the money (just all the inconvenience). But your advice is sound. My thoughts were more aligned with where would be the best place if we decided to leave it here.

Wayne M · 08-27-2023, 07:24 PM

The best place is, as you know, where the hurricanes is not. Whatever you decide you need to do it soon. You will not be the only one traveling to avoid the storm,

We got a late start one year and it took 15 hours to go 150 Miles. It was mostly "stop traffic," and not stop and go. DW would get out of the car to walk the dog and I'd pick her up several minutes later.

If you are going to leave try leaving 72 hours before landfall.

It appears that the storm will be Tampa and North. What is there to the South of you?

CarpeDiem · 08-27-2023, 07:35 PM

We are what will apparently be the southern edge of the storm, north and somewhat east of Orlando. I’m hoping we won’t be told to leave.

Wayne M · 08-27-2023, 08:08 PM

Let's hope it goes around you.

Ray,IN · 08-29-2023, 01:31 PM

JIC, I would fill the LP, the fuel tank and fresh water tank. From TV the storm track points to inland/ driving SE if you decide to evacuate.
If you decide to leave the MH in-place, I agree with parking it away from trees and buildings, and oriented so the rear cap is facing the wind if at all possible.
I'd stow valuables, meds,, etc, in your car trunk now, in case you get al last-minute evac order. I wouldn't bother with packng a lot of clothes though.

Watching live weather radar indicates this might continue North towards Georgia instead of making that hook towards Jacksonville. https://livewxradar.com/

IMO this will either be a disaster or just a mild blow, and location is the great unknown. But what do I know, I'm 900 miles North of you. Look at what the last hurricane did, took a last minute Eastward turn and destroyed Ft. Myers Beach.

deckape · 08-29-2023, 03:16 PM

Make a ditch bag with meds ,papers ,and anything you will need if you have to make a claim and pack car now . Park RV in a open parking lot with slides in and jacks down . Close all blinds and tape window so rain will not be driven in . Make a hotel reservation on the coast below/ near Vero Beach and wait it out . Go back when safe . Might want to get a letter from Park so you can get back into area . This storm might circle back in and come ashore on east coast next week ,some models show .