Orlando firefighters run hurricane-readiness drill in preparation for what could come

The Orlando Fire Department held “Operation Storm Shield,” a hurricane readiness exercise at the city’s Emergency Operations Center. Participants worked through a simulated major hurricane in three phases — before the storm, during the storm and after — aimed at identifying gaps in response plans now, before a real emergency. City leaders pointed to recent storms as reminders of how quickly conditions can change. Hurricane Ian in 2022 brought flooding and damage across Orlando, and Nicole followed with impacts that included downed trees. In 2024, Milton moved through the area, again testing local response and recovery efforts.