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Where is Florida?

Florida is situated at the south-east corner of the United States of America - USA. It is a section of land sticking out into the sea, and is surrounded by water on three sides, making it a peninsula. The Atlantic Ocean is to the east and south, and the Gulf of Mexico to the west.

At the southern tip of Florida is a chain of islands, or archipelago, made of sand and coral. It's called the Florida Keys.

A map of Florida. The Atlantic Ocean is on the right and the Gulf of Mexico is on the left.
Image caption,
A map of Florida.
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What are the landscape and climate like in Florida?

Miami beach in Florida.
Image caption,
Miami beach in Florida.

The land in Florida is very flat and most of it lies only just above sea level.

It has a tropical and subtropical climate meaning it is very warm and humid almost all year round. Most of Florida has a wet season and a dry season.

Hurricane approaching Florida from space.
Image caption,
An aerial photograph of a hurricane approaching the coast of Florida.

Although it is called the 鈥楽unshine State鈥, Florida is also at risk from hurricanes in summer and autumn.

These are very strong storms that can create lots of damage to buildings and land.

Hurricanes track westwards across the Atlantic before reaching the Caribbean and North America鈥檚 south-east coast.

Hurricane approaching Florida from space.
Image caption,
An aerial photograph of a hurricane approaching the coast of Florida.
The Everglades national park in South Florida.
Image caption,
The Everglades national park in South Florida.

When it rains in Florida, it rains heavily. The large amounts of rainfall collect in lakes, rivers, underground springs and swamps. This has created places such as the Everglades in the south - a wet marshy area where alligators, turtles and snakes live.

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Watch: Florida with Sue Venir

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What are Florida's main industries?

A rollercoaster in Florida.
Image caption,
A rollercoaster in Florida.

Florida鈥檚 main industries are:

  • farming - tomatoes, strawberries and oranges grow here
  • tourism - more than 100 million visitors each year come to its miles of beaches, amusement parks and state parks
A rollercoaster in Florida.
Image caption,
A rollercoaster in Florida.
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What are the effects of hurricanes?

Hurricanes don鈥檛 just pose a risk to people and buildings; they cause a lot of economic damage. A hurricane can destroy crops, causing hardship for farmers and price increases for customers.

Hurricanes affect the tourism industry too. They disrupt travel for visitors and can stop people from going to Florida's major attractions and beaches. Hurricanes often leave homes and businesses without electricity.

Damaged buildings and trees caused by Hurricane Michael in Mexico Beach, Florida in 2018.
Image caption,
Damaged buildings and trees caused by Hurricane Michael in Mexico Beach, Florida in 2018.

What do people do in Florida when a hurricane is forecast?

Hurricane warnings help to give people time to prepare. People may be asked to stay indoors or even leave their homes altogether. People board up their windows and stock up on food and water.

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Activity: Quiz 鈥 Florida

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