SUMMARY: Thanksgiving and Black Friday mark the end of hurricane season, which concluded on November 30th. Tampa Bay experienced significant damage, with ongoing rebuilding efforts following storms like Hurricane Helen, which caused nearly $1.9 billion in losses. Homeowners express relief that the season is over but worry about rising insurance rates. While the Florida property insurance market managed relatively well, claims from this season could lead to increased rates next year, especially for those who filed claims. The impact of this year’s storms, primarily flood-related, may result in adjustments in flood insurance costs as the market stabilizes.

New state data from the Office of Insurance Regulation shows the cost of these storms: Hurricane Debby, Hurricane Helene, and Hurricane Milton.

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SUMMARY: Camp Kangaroo in Broward County, hosted by Seasons Hospice Foundation, helps children cope with the loss of a parent or sibling. The camp offers music therapy, art, and pet therapy to support grieving youth. Alejandro Zavala, a grief counselor, emphasizes the importance of providing emotional support, as grief is not easily overcome. For children like Savannah and Tristan, who lost their father and grandfather to cancer, the camp offers a chance to connect with others who share similar experiences. Through the program, they learn they are not alone and can continue their lives while honoring their loved ones.

Chelsea Jones reports through art, music and pet therapy, and other methods, each child is given tools to help ease the pain of loss.

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SUMMARY: The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season was notably destructive and unpredictable, marked by climate change-induced ocean heat and favorable conditions. NOAA predicted the highest number of storms, resulting in five major hurricanes, including the record-setting Category 5 Hurricane Barrel, which struck early in the season. Florida faced catastrophic impacts from Hurricane Helen, which became North Carolina’s deadliest storm, causing nearly 100 fatalities and extensive damage. Subsequent storms like Hurricane Milton also inflicted severe destruction, with notable events such as tornadoes in South Florida. The season concluded with 18 named storms, prompting research into its unpredictable patterns.

The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season comes to a close this Saturday, Nov. 30, and it will be remembered for its record-breaking storms, incredible destruction and the many lives it took.

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