In this episode, Lisa Sharrard sits down with “Hurricane Hal” Needham, Extreme Weather and Disaster Scientist with GeoTrek and Founder of U-Surge, to explore what history can teach us about flood risk—and why the past may reveal dangers that maps and hurricane categories often miss.

From chasing hurricanes and experiencing the eye of Hurricane Ian firsthand to building comprehensive historical storm surge data, Hal shares the personal journey that led him into the world of extreme weather and disaster science.

Lisa and Hal dive into the surprising gaps in storm surge data, why hurricane category doesn't always tell the full story, lessons from Hurricane Katrina, and how historical flood records, high-water marks, old photographs, and community stories can help us better understand future risk.

They also tackle one of the biggest misconceptions in flood risk: just because you haven't flooded before—or you're outside a designated flood zone—doesn't mean you're safe.

If you want to better understand storm surge, historical flooding, hurricane risk, and how communities can prepare for the next big event, this conversation is packed with insights you won't want to miss.

🌊 Follow Hurricane Hal's work with GeoTrek as he explores extreme weather, natural disasters, and the stories behind them, at https://www.geo-trek.com/

🌟 Thank you to our supporting sponsor, National General! Check them out and request a quote at https://nationalgeneral.com.

🌟 And thank you to our premium sponsor, Choice Flood Insurance LLC! Check them out at https://choicefloodinsurance.com/ and schedule a consultation to learn more about how Choice can protect your home from flood.

#FloodInsurance #FEMA #NFIP #FloodRisk #ExtremeWeather #FloodZone #FloodplainManagement #SimplyFlood #Floodplain #CFM #ANFI #NCAFPM #ASFPM #IIANC #FAIA

Connect with Lisa on LinkedIn 👉 https://www.linkedin.com/in/floodadvocate/

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