Naples Braces for Potential Tropical Impact from Invest 92L

## Batten Down the Hatches, Naples! Invest 92L is Bringing the Tropics to Our Doorstep Alright, Naples neighbors, let’s talk about the weather. Because, let’s be honest, in Southwest Florida, the weather is practically a contact sport. We’ve dodged a few bullets this hurricane season, but it looks like we might need to dust off those hurricane preparedness plans. Invest 92L is swirling out there in the Atlantic, and while it’s not a named storm *yet*, it’s definitely something we need to keep a close eye on. Think of it as that guest who shows up unannounced and stays a *little* too long – bringing a whole lot of rain and potential drama with them. So, what exactly *is* Invest 92L? Well, it’s basically a cluster of thunderstorms that has the *potential* to develop into something more organized, like a tropical depression or even a hurricane. Think of it as a baby storm still figuring things out. The National Hurricane Center gives these systems a number so they can track them. “Invest” just means it’s being investigated for potential development. 92L is just its temporary nametag until – and *if* – it earns a proper name like “Harold” or “Idalia.” Now, before you start boarding up your windows and raiding Publix for all the bottled water, let’s take a deep breath. Panicking won’t help anyone, especially in Naples, where we’re used to this tropical tango. The key here is to be *prepared* and *informed*. **What does this mean for Naples specifically?** Well, the most immediate impact we’re likely to see is a significant increase in rainfall. We’re talking potential flooding in low-lying areas, ponding on the roads (making that afternoon school pickup even *more* exciting), and maybe even some overflowing canals. So, if you usually park your car in a spot prone to flooding, maybe consider moving it to higher ground. Also, now’s a good time to clean out those gutters and make sure your storm drains are clear. Think of it as a little pre-storm spa day for your house. Beyond the rain, we can expect increased humidity – like, even *more* humid than usual. Think of it as stepping into a giant sauna, but instead of feeling relaxed, you just feel sticky and slightly irritable. So, crank up the AC, stay hydrated, and maybe avoid strenuous outdoor activities unless you enjoy feeling like you’re swimming through soup. As for wind, it’s too early to say for sure how strong they’ll get. We’ll likely see some breezy conditions, maybe even some gusts, especially if 92L strengthens. So, secure any loose outdoor furniture, like those patio chairs that always seem to have a mind of their own during a storm. And maybe postpone that weekend kayaking trip until things calm down a bit. **The Naples Hurricane Preparedness Checklist – A Refresher:** Let’s be honest, most of us seasoned Floridians have a hurricane kit tucked away somewhere. But it’s always a good idea to double-check, especially with 92L looming. Here’s a quick refresher: * **Water:** One gallon per person per day for at least three days. And remember your furry friends! They need hydration too. * **Food:** Non-perishable items that don’t require cooking. Think canned goods, granola bars, peanut butter, and crackers. Don’t forget the coffee! Caffeine is essential for hurricane survival (at least in my house). * **Flashlights and Batteries:** Because nothing’s more fun than stumbling around in the dark during a power outage. * **First Aid Kit:** Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers – the basics. * **Medications:** Refill any prescriptions that are running low. * **Important Documents:** Keep copies of important documents, like insurance policies and identification, in a waterproof container. * **Cash:** ATMs might not be accessible during a power outage. * **Radio:** A battery-powered or hand-crank weather radio to stay updated on the storm’s progress. * **Pet Supplies:** Food, water, medications, and any comfort items your furry friend might need. **Staying Informed in Naples:** Keeping up-to-date on the latest information is crucial. Here are some resources you can rely on: * **National Hurricane Center:** Your go-to source for official forecasts and advisories. * **Collier County Emergency Management:** They’ll provide local information specific to our area. * **Local News Outlets:** Keep an eye on your favorite Naples news channels and websites. * **Social Media:** Follow local government agencies and news outlets on social media for real-time updates. But be mindful of misinformation – stick to official sources. **Beyond the Checklist – Naples Specific Considerations:** Living in Naples presents unique challenges during hurricane season. We’re surrounded by water, and many of our beautiful homes are in flood-prone areas. Here are some additional things to keep in mind: * **Evacuation Zones:** Know your evacuation zone and have a plan in place if an evacuation order is issued. Don’t wait until the last minute! Traffic can be a nightmare. * **Boat Owners:** Secure your boat well in advance of the storm. * **Landscaping:** Trim any dead branches or trees that could become projectiles in high winds. **The Bottom Line:** Invest 92L is a reminder that hurricane season is far from over. While there’s no need to panic, it’s essential to be prepared. By taking the necessary precautions and staying informed, we can weather this storm – literally and figuratively – and keep our beautiful Naples community safe. So, let’s keep an eye on the forecast, help our neighbors, and remember that we’re all in this together. And hey, maybe we’ll even get lucky and 92L will just fizzle out. Fingers crossed! Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to Publix to stock up on hurricane snacks. Anyone need anything?