Fort Myers Hurricane Expo draws crowds preparing for 2026 season

FORT MYERS, Fla. (WINK) — The city hosted its annual Hurricane Expo, bringing together the community to help people get ready before hurricane season begins.

The doors opened at the Caloosa Sound Convention Center with people filling the venue, all looking for ways to stay safe this hurricane season. From weather presentations to hurricane protection demos, the Fort Myers Hurricane Expo brought together experts, first responders and vendors, all with the same goal—helping people prepare before a storm hits.

WINK News partnered with the city of Fort Myers, with meteorologists answering questions, taking photos with viewers and helping people understand what to expect this hurricane season. WINK Weather Authority meteorologist Josh Green was among those meeting with the community.

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"Whether the preseason forecast calls for 10 named storms, 20 or 30, it only takes one in the wrong place to make it an impactful season," Green said. "The biggest part of the day is just saying hi to everyone, meeting the community, just making sure everyone can come out, ask us your questions heading into the upcoming season."

For many people at the expo, preparing their home was a top priority.

Vendors demonstrated various hurricane protection options and shared advice about securing properties before storms arrive.

"We are one of the only producers that I'm aware of that puts the sacrificial pane on the inside, so the hurricane windows on the outside," said Peter Brandt of Reece Windows.

"Don't wait for the wind to start blowing to get your stuff in order," said Curt Randall of Storm Smart.

For people who have lived through storms before, events like this help them feel more confident heading into the season.

Craig Edwards, an attendee, appreciated the resources available at the expo.

"There's a lot of good information down here today, and I'm really thankful for the emergency management to put this on at WINK TV as well," Edwards said.

The city's biggest message is don't wait for a storm to be prepared. Head into this season with a plan.