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UF Nursing Student Recalls Hurricane Milton Chaos as Active 2025 Season Expected

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As we enter the start of the 2025 hurricane season on June 1, and with current predictions calling for an above-normal year of storm activity, we look back at 2024 and share one College of Nursing student’s story of living through the fear and anxiety of having her life turned upside down by nature.  

Stefanie Lugo, a Doctor of Nursing Practice student, resides in Naples and studies remotely. Although a long-time Florida resident, she experienced her first close encounter with a hurricane in 2024. It also marked a significant moment for the University of Florida and thousands of students after classes in Gainesville were cancelled twice in two weeks due to Hurricanes Helene and Milton. 

While the main campus avoided the worst of the storms, UF’s presence across all 67 Florida counties became evident as reports poured in from online students, extension offices and research facilities statewide. These accounts highlighted the widespread impact of the hurricanes on UF’s diverse community, from disrupted studies for remote learners like Stefanie to challenges faced by agricultural extension programs and research initiatives in affected regions. Despite the disruptions, UF’s network of students, faculty and staff demonstrated resilience, adapting to virtual platforms and community support efforts to navigate the storms’ aftermath. 

Here is Stefanie’s Story, which first appeared in the Graduate Nurse Student Academy’s Liaison Pulse Newsletter in March: 

“Life is full of surprises. I have lived in sunny Florida for 25 years, with our beautiful beaches, swaying palm trees, thrilling amusement parks, and breathtaking sunsets. But just because the scenery and weather are often ideal, it doesn’t mean it always stays that way.  One major drawback to living in Florida is hurricane season. We Floridians perceive ourselves as brave soldiers going into battle, ready to literally ‘weather the storm.’ However, those who have lived through severe storms know how devastating the impact can be. 

Fall 2024 was my first semester in a fully online DNP program at UF. I live in Naples, Florida, where I carefully balance school, work, church and family life by staying well organized. Unfortunately, the 2024 hurricane season threw a major curveball at my carefully organized and full schedule. 

In late September, Hurricane Helene skirted my area and hit the Big Bend of Florida. Shortly after that, on Oct. 9, Hurricane Milton, a Category 3 hurricane, made landfall on nearby Siesta Key. Our duplex was flooded with approximately two feet of water. And when I say water, I mean putrid-smelling saltwater, sand, debris and rubbish. Once the water receded, this needed to be cleaned out to evaluate the damage. Electrical, plumbing, flooring and furniture all had to be replaced. Schools were closed, and my three children were at home. The hospitals were in desperate need of providers. There was a “boil water” warning due to disrupted water treatment systems, while grocery stores and gas stations were non-functional or barren. Electricity was eventually restored; however, it continued to go in and out for weeks following the storm, along with the internet.  

Understandably, it was very difficult to focus on school or get any quality work done with the physical, emotional and financial stress of the aftermath. Thankfully, my DNP cohort has a WhatsApp group to keep us connected from all over the state. The support given to each other during this time was substantial. The College of Nursing and our professors emailed all students to support, offer extensions on assignments as needed and provide resource information. Our Associate Dean for Academic Affairs for Graduate Clinical Education reached out and led a Zoom meeting for students to share their stories and offer support to one another. Those of us affected appreciated the support from fellow students and faculty. We felt connected, seen and supported. 

Everyone encounters hardships, and I have learned how these challenges can be valuable growth opportunities.  My first semester going back to school after almost 20 years was humbling on many levels. Facing these trials and tribulations, I have found myself emotionally stronger, with increased confidence, fortitude and newly developed coping skills to face future challenges. Sharing my struggles and vulnerabilities and empathizing with my peers enabled me to reflect on areas of my life that I might consider needing growth.  I have a new appreciation for the University of Florida, specifically the faculty of the College of Nursing, who ensured we felt their support even while being remote.  

Despite the unpredictable weather, I love being a Floridian and appreciate the wonderful features this beautiful state offers. Through these hindrances, I have chosen to focus on gratitude, resilience, adaptability and empathy rather than allow defeat. I have learned to value the camaraderie of my cohort and the importance of giving and receiving support.  Taking time to self-reflect and taking stock of my strengths and weaknesses has only allowed further growth. Like the warm and beautiful Florida sunshine, I am learning to shine through adversity.” 

While Stefanie and many other Floridians experienced hardships, she took heed of evacuation notices to protect herself and her family from potential tragedy. Hurricanes are powerful, dangerous storms. At least 48 deaths in Florida were attributed to Helene and Milton.  

Hurricane preparedness is essential. Create an emergency plan, including evacuation routes and communication strategies with family members. Stock up on essentials including non-perishable food, water, batteries, flashlights and a first-aid kit. Don’t wait until the storm is near to prepare, as supplies go fast. Stay tuned to local emergency management officials for detailed alerts for your area. By taking these proactive steps, residents can better withstand hurricanes and recover more swiftly. 

Hurricane Resources:  

  • Ready.gov: Offers detailed guidance on hurricane preparedness, including making a plan, building an emergency kit, determining evacuation routes and understanding different types of storm warnings.  
  • FEMA.gov: Provides information on evacuation plans, safe rooms and hurricane preparedness in general.  
  • American Red Cross: Offers information on hurricane preparedness, including creating emergency kits, staying connected, and learning essential skills.  

University of Florida Resources: 

  • GatorSafe App: Anyone, including family members, may elect to receive UF Alerts for the Gainesville campus onto their mobile device. The app helps users make emergency calls, receive UF alerts and perform other functions that improve their personal safety and security.   
  • Severe Weather Updates: Provides the latest information on weather alerts and resources to help you prepare for hurricane season. Weather updates are also available on the UF homepage and will be provided via UF’s X and Facebook accounts.  You can also monitor the UF Public Safety X feed.  
  • UF’s Rumor Control Line: Dial 1-866-UF-FACTS (866-833-2287).  Information will be updated daily.