As Florida continues to reel from the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene, another catastrophic storm, Hurricane Milton, has rapidly intensified in the Gulf of Mexico and is now bearing down on the Sunshine State. Currently a Category 5 hurricane, Milton is expected to bring dangerous storm surges, heavy rainfall, and destructive winds, compounding the damage caused by Helene just two weeks ago.
Milton is on a direct path toward Florida’s Gulf Coast, threatening the immediate Tampa Bay area, where residents are already under evacuation orders. Forecasters are warning of a possible storm surge of 8 to 12 feet (2.4 to 3.6 meters) in Tampa Bay, in addition to flash flooding caused by 5 to 10 inches (13 to 25 centimeters) of rain. Some areas could receive as much as 15 inches (38 centimeters), leading to widespread flooding across mainland Florida and the Keys.
Hurricane Helene made landfall in Perry, Florida, with its initial impact creating devastation throughout the region. North Carolina, in particular, bore the brunt of the storm’s intensification, with floodwaters destroying homes, infrastructure, and claiming lives. With 232 fatalities reported across six states, Helene now stands as the second deadliest storm in the past 50 years, only surpassed by Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
For Florida pool pros, the timing could not be worse. Just as cleanup efforts from Helene were gaining momentum, Hurricane Milton is now threatening to undo much of the progress made. The Tampa Bay area, still recovering from Helene’s deadly surge, saw significant damage along its coastline, particularly on barrier islands from St. Petersburg to Clearwater, where 12 people lost their lives.
Hurricane Helene Aftermath and the Pool Industry’s Struggles
The pool industry was hit hard by Hurricane Helene, with service companies swamped by a flood of post-storm calls. The extensive flooding and high winds caused a multitude of issues for pool owners, including structural damage to pool interiors, decking, and equipment. Some pools were lifted out of the ground due to hydrostatic pressure from the extreme flooding. Screen enclosures were torn apart by the wind, leaving properties vulnerable to further damage from debris and rain.
Pool professionals have been stretched thin, working around the clock to help restore order. From debris removal and equipment repair to water quality restoration, the demands placed on pool service companies have been immense. Many pool technicians have been overwhelmed by the sheer scale of work required to repair the damage caused by Helene.
And now, with Hurricane Milton on the horizon, Florida pool pros are bracing for another round of devastation. Though Milton is expected to weaken to a Category 3 storm by the time it makes landfall on Wednesday night, the predicted damage—including widespread flooding and high winds—remains significant. Pool companies are preparing for another surge in repair and cleanup efforts, knowing that many of the same challenges encountered after Helene are likely to arise again.
Preparing Your Pool for Hurricane Milton: FSPA’s Recommendations
As Hurricane Milton approaches, it is essential for pool owners to take proactive measures to protect their pools and properties. The Florida Swimming Pool Association (FSPA) provides several recommendations to minimize damage:
- Do not drain your pool: While it may seem like a good idea to reduce water levels, an empty pool is at risk of being lifted out of the ground due to the hydrostatic pressure from the heavy rain and flooding. Keeping your pool filled is a safer option.
- Turn off pool equipment: Power down all electrical components, including pumps, heaters, and lighting systems, at the circuit breaker. This prevents electrical damage from power surges or flooding.
- Secure loose items: Remove pool accessories like chairs, umbrellas, and toys from the surrounding area, or store them securely to prevent them from becoming dangerous projectiles in the storm’s high winds.
- Balance water chemistry: Shock the pool and balance its pH levels before the storm hits. This helps combat contamination from debris and rainwater.
- Cover the pool (if necessary): If you choose to use a safety cover, ensure it is securely fastened. However, some professionals recommend leaving the pool uncovered to avoid damage to the cover during high winds.
By following these steps, pool owners can mitigate the damage to their pools and surrounding property during Hurricane Milton.
Patience After the Storm: What Pool Owners Should Know
Once the storm passes, it’s important for pool owners to remain patient as pool professionals will once again be inundated with calls for help. Following Hurricane Helene, many pool companies were already stretched thin, and with Hurricane Milton’s impending damage, the demand for service will likely skyrocket. It’s crucial to understand that pool technicians will be dealing with an enormous workload, so it may take some time to address every issue.
While it can be frustrating to wait, especially if your pool has sustained significant damage, pool professionals are doing their best to service as many clients as possible in a timely manner. Remember to prioritize safety, and avoid using any damaged equipment or attempting DIY measures that could worsen the situation. It’s best to leave it to the experts, who will work diligently to restore your pool to working order as soon as possible.
