Importance of Hurricane Resilience: A Call to Action for Naples Residents
The article outlines the necessity of hurricane resilience efforts for Naples residents and promotes a free forum organized by Greater Naples Leadership, the Collier Community Foundation, and Naples United Church of Christ to be held on March 18, 2025. It will feature expert speakers discussing preparedness strategies and initiatives to strengthen community resilience against future storms.
Hurricane resilience efforts are increasingly essential for communities affected by storms, particularly for residents of Naples. While hurricanes are unavoidable, adapting our preparation and response strategies is critical for enhancing community resilience. To address these needs, Greater Naples Leadership is partnering with the Collier Community Foundation and Naples United Church of Christ to host a complimentary forum entitled “Taking the Punch out of Powerful Hurricanes: A Forum on Building Resilience” on March 18, 2025, from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at Naples United Church of Christ.
The forum will feature esteemed keynote speakers, moderated by Eileen Connolly-Keesler, the president and CEO of the Collier Community Foundation. These speakers will provide valuable insights and practical strategies aimed at enhancing preparedness for future storms.
Among the speakers, Matt Devitt, chief meteorologist at WINK News, will discuss Collier County’s historical context regarding hurricanes, explaining their formation, the impact of sea surface temperatures, and offering clarity on storm surge predictions. His presentation will address how wind, precipitation, and flooding exacerbate hurricane effects and contemplate future conditions resulting from a heating Gulf and increasing sea levels.
Jennifer Jurado, Broward County’s chief resilience officer, will explore various storm resilience initiatives both domestically and globally. She will elucidate the factors influencing coastal vulnerabilities, including natural protections, geographical features, and hydrodynamics. Additionally, Jurado will contrast the risk profiles of Broward and Collier counties while suggesting practical measures to enhance resilience in harmony with Florida’s natural landscape.
Finally, Dan Summers, director of Collier County Emergency Management, will shed light on ongoing, planned, and completed projects that bolster hurricane resilience within our community. His discussion will underscore proactive solutions for managing risks related to flooding and wind, emphasizing collaborative efforts to strengthen our infrastructure.
Attendees will also find information tables from local environmental and resilience organizations, offering insights on community programs, mental health resources, and educational opportunities. The forum aims to underscore the importance of collective resilience in safeguarding the Gulf Coast lifestyle—comprising beautiful beaches, flourishing tourism, and a vibrant local economy. It serves as a pivotal call to action for residents committed to constructing a fortified, well-prepared community.
In conclusion, this forum represents an invaluable opportunity for community members to engage in a relevant discourse surrounding hurricane preparedness and resilience strategies. You are cordially invited to participate in this significant conversation. Together, let us learn and empower ourselves to effectively address future challenges presented by nature. Please register for free at gnlwebsite.org to facilitate collaboration in achieving a resilient future for Naples.
This article emphasizes the crucial need for hurricane resilience initiatives and highlights a forthcoming forum that aims to educate and empower residents of Naples. With expert speakers addressing various aspects of storm preparedness, the event seeks to foster community engagement and promote proactive measures for resilience. Together, the community is encouraged to participate actively in fortifying its defenses against future hurricanes.
Original Source: www.naplesnews.com
