SHALIMAR, Fla. — Okaloosa County will host its second annual Hurricane Expo on Saturday, May 3, offering residents a chance to prepare for the 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season with information, giveaways, and expert guidance.
The event, dubbed “Florida’s Greatest Hurricane Preparedness Party,” will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Okaloosa County Administration Building, 1250 N. Eglin Parkway in Shalimar.
This year’s featured speaker is Jason Beaman, Meteorologist-in-Charge at the National Weather Service in Mobile. Mr Beaman, who began his NWS career in 2003 and now directs the agency’s meteorological and hydrological warning and forecasting programs, is expected to share insights and stories from his experience overseeing weather coordination in the Gulf region.
The Expo will also feature Okaloosa County Director of Public Safety Patrick Maddox, a 31-year veteran of emergency response and former Incident Commander for several major hurricanes, including Katrina, Irma, and Michael.
“It is important for all of us in Okaloosa County to recognize the serious threat storms pose to our area and the devastation they can cause,” said Okaloosa County Board Chairman Paul Mixon.
“The annual Hurricane Expo is a reminder that we need to do what we can to prepare our families in advance so we do not have to panic at the last minute. I invite everyone to attend this important event to remain informed and better equipped for the upcoming storm season.”
The event is free and open to the public. It will include complimentary 2025 Hurricane Guides, a variety of vendors, food trucks, public safety discussions with first responders, and interactive displays focused on storms and emergency preparedness.
The first 100 attendees will receive free premium tote bags filled with “party” items sponsored by Keep Okaloosa Beautiful.
Fellow commissioners echoed the importance of early preparation and praised the county’s emergency management team.
“Okaloosa County is a community of caring individuals that always comes together when needed,” said Vice Chairman Carolyn Ketchel.
“I encourage all residents to come together and make a plan in advance of hurricane season to be as prepared as possible.”
“As a lifelong resident of Okaloosa County, I certainly know the importance of hurricane preparedness,” said Commissioner Sherri Cox.
“The more we can be prepared for potential impacts of a storm, the better we can mitigate injury and loss of life. I commend our Emergency Management team and their impressive ability to keep us informed before, during, and after a storm.”
“Okaloosa County remains committed to ensuring we are doing everything we can to prepare the public and its assets for any potential storm impacts,” added Commissioner Trey Goodwin.
Vendor space is still available, and tables will be provided free of charge. Interested organizations may contact Nick Tomecek at ntomecek@myokaloosa.com.
Additional resources, including this year’s official Hurricane Guide, can be found at https://myokaloosa.com/ps/emergency-management.
