Water Damage Restoration in Lake Mary, FL
Owning a home or business is one of the hallmarks of living the American Dream. While there are many fulfilling and positive aspects of owning property, one of the challenges that owners face is property damage. This type of damage can be caused by a range of disasters, both man-made and natural. Of all the types of property damage, water damage is among the most common.
Whether from broken pipes or heavy thunderstorms, it doesn't take a professor from ECPI University in Lake Mary to know that water damage can be incredibly harmful to your home. Water can spread quickly throughout your property, causing damage to furniture and porous materials as it moves. In the blink of an eye, you could be looking at substantial rotting, warping, and even mold growth. That's why water damage restoration in Lake Mary, FL is so important - to mitigate the damage to your home and help prevent it from happening in the future.
Trying to overcome flooding and other water-related disasters on your own can seem like a lost cause. But with Disaster Response by your side, you don't have to lose hope. As a local water damage clean-up company, we provide comprehensive restoration services to properties of all sizes in Lake Mary. From the first time we assess your water damage to the time we mitigate and restore, we're here for you.


Dealing with property damage can be overwhelming. You're likely concerned about a few key things:

Navigating the insurance claim process
We guide you through every step, ensuring you understand the process and get the most out of your claim.

Scheduling for a quick and quality completion
We provide a clear timeline for restoration, prioritizing both speed and quality, so you can get back to normal as soon as possible.
You might also be thinking about:

Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.

Understanding the full scope of the damage and what needs to be done:We conduct a thorough assessment of the damage and provide a detailed plan of action, so you know exactly what to expect.

Knowing the costs upfront and avoiding unexpected expenses: We provide transparent pricing and a detailed estimate before any work begins, so there are no surprises along the way.

Preventing future issues, such as mold growth or structural problems: We don't just fix the visible damage—we address the root causes to prevent future issues, giving you peace of mind.

Protecting your belongings and valuables from further damage: We take extra care to safeguard your possessions during the restoration process, minimizing any further impact.



Minimizing disruption to your daily life or business operations: We work efficiently and flexibly to reduce the disruption to your routine, allowing you to continue with your life or business as smoothly as possible.

Finding a trustworthy team to handle your property with care: Our experienced and highly-trained professionals treat your property as if it were their own, ensuring the highest standard of care.

Ensuring the job is done right the first time: We pride ourselves on doing the job right the first time, using industry-leading techniques and thorough quality checks to ensure lasting results.

Receiving clear communication and updates throughout the restoration process: We keep you informed every step of the way, providing regular updates and clear communication, so you're never left in the dark.

Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.

At Disaster Response, It's All About You
Like Lake Mary Museum in Lake Mary, Disaster Response has been a pillar of the community for years. As a second-generation disaster response company, we know that our work is never about us. At its most basic, it's always about you—your situation, your needs, and your satisfaction. We engineer our processes to help you quickly recover from water floods and disasters. Our total focus is on you, our valued customer. And that, in a nutshell, is what makes Disaster Response one of the most trusted and highly-rated water restoration companies in Lake Mary.
Instead of focusing on profit, bottom lines, and yearly projections, we make you our priority. That's why we're serious about providing expert-level disaster preparedness and response services when you need them the most. Could you imagine trying to decipher misleading fine print or dealing with a pushy salesperson when you're just trying to get your life back together? That's not the Disaster Response way, and it never will be.
We don't just clean up after water leaks, floods, or other disasters; we go above and beyond by providing a consultative approach that serves you for years to come. We assist you in dealing with insurance adjusters to ensure you get the coverage you deserve without unnecessary delays. We make it a point to meticulously review every detail of your claim and work hard to make sure adjusters understand the full extent of your losses. We can also provide guidance on how and when to engage a public adjuster to bypass inefficiencies in the insurance process. At the end of the day, we strive to provide peace of mind during your difficult time and work tirelessly to get your property back to its pre-loss condition.
The Disaster Response Difference

Professional Technicians, Technology, and Processes
In fact, we'll dispatch a team of water disaster technicians to you within three minutes. We'll also advise you on what can be done to minimize the water damage in your home or business. Our water damage restoration team will use cutting-edge technology and IICRC-approved methods to restore as much of your property as possible.

Insurance Advocacy
Disaster Response works one-on-one with you and your insurance provider to expedite the claims process and get your home back to normal as soon as possible.

Satisfaction Guaranteed
We're proud of our work and stand behind every project we complete. Our goal is to exceed expectations and provide peace of mind throughout every step of your water damage restoration process. If you're not satisfied for any reason, we'll listen to your concerns and work tirelessly to rectify any issues that need addressing.



Hugo Garcia
Hugo Fire and Water
Disaster Response Introducing Hugo Fire and Water: The Premier Choice for Emergency Clean-Up**
At Disaster 911, we're elevating the standard with ( Hugo Fire and Water ), our trusted go-to contractor for emergency clean-up services. While others may settle for the status quo, ( Hugo Fire and Water ) takes an innovative approach to restoration.
From water and fire damage to mold remediation, ( Hugo Fire and Water ) doesn't just follow industry norms-they set new ones. Our rigorous vetting process ensures that ( Hugo Fire and Water ) exceeds expectations, delivering cutting-edge solutions for your emergency needs.
When you choose Disaster 911 and ( Hugo Fire and Water ), you're opting for a dynamic partnership that prioritizes effective, next-level recovery. Don't settle for the ordinary-when disaster strikes, choose the best in emergency response.
Boca Raton, FL


Your Guide to Water Damage Restoration in Lake Mary, FL
Water damage restoration is a key step in remediating damage to your home, both structurally and aesthetically. Damage from water doesn't just affect the walls, floors, and ceilings in your home. It can also cause deeper issues that, when untreated, can weaken your foundation significantly and lead to long-term instability.
As if that weren't enough, water damage can present health hazards to your friends, family, and pets. Mold and bacteria can grow in damp areas after water incidents, causing allergies, respiratory problems, and even visits to Grand Living Park at Lake Mary in Lake Mary for examination. Ignoring water damage can also result in irreversible harm to your belongings, including furniture, electronics, and sentimental items, leading to financial loss and emotional distress. Professional water clean-up services can repair the damage to your property, help protect valuable assets, and re-establish your home or business as a safe, healthy environment for occupants.
What Makes Our Water Damage Company in Lake Mary, FL, Different from Others?
One of the most common questions we get at Disaster Response is, "What separates you from other water damage clean-up companies in Lake Mary?" The first and easiest answer to that question centers around our commitment to customer service. We hold our clients in high regard because, without them, there would be no Disaster Response. As such, we work tirelessly to provide them with quality work from friendly and helpful technicians, regardless of the size of their home or business.
But that's just the start. Our clients recommend friends and family to our business because we prioritize the following:

Cost
Investing in damage restoration for your home is a smart move that can help reduce long-term costs. The best part? Our services are covered by insurance companies, so there's less worry about paying out of pocket.

Technicians
Every member of our team has years of experience, specialized training, and certifications in handling water damage. We prioritize our customers' well-being and meticulously attend to every detail to prevent any potential mold-related issues in the future. From single-family homes to

Time
Water disasters happen quicker than you might think. One moment, you're enjoying family time at Central Park in Lake Mary. The next, you're pulling in your driveway to a flooded home. When you call our office, we'll get to work assessing the cause of your water damage and how extensive the water damage is in your home or business. From there, we'll dispatch a team of IICRC water damage restoration experts to your location.

Tools
Disaster Response has made significant investments in cutting-edge water damage equipment, including inspection tools that enable thorough water removal. Our technicians have undergone extensive training to operate these machines and know when and when not to use them.

Process
For over 40 years, we have been helping with water damage issues, refining our process along the way. We can quickly find hidden damages that others might miss and document everything for your insurance company.

Reliable Water Damage Restoration Network
We aren't afraid to ask for help if it means a safer, more enjoyable environment for your family or customers. In fact, we have access to a network of industry pros who are experts in a range of water damage services. To make your life a little easier, we also work with insurance professionals who assist with the claims process.
What Does Disaster Response Fix?
As an IICRC-certified water damage contractor in Lake Mary, FL, our technicians can address several areas of your home or business that have been damaged by a water disaster.
- Floors: It's very important to take the necessary time and steps to effectively dry your floors to prevent any potential water damage and mold growth in the future.
- Walls: Depending on the amount of water that enters your business or home, the structural integrity of your property may be at stake. Our technicians will evaluate the situation, inspect your property, and replace materials damaged by water.
- Rugs: If your rugs get wet during flooding or from another water disaster, they may be salvageable. We'll work hard to save all the rugs in your property.
- Furniture: Your furniture is probably expensive and may hold a certain level of sentimental value. Instead of throwing it away or donating it to in Lake Mary, we can repair and restore it.

Disaster Response specializes in every kind of damage caused by rain, wind, or snowstorms. We handle water damage, mold, mildew, and more, and can be at your home or office within an hour of your call to assess the situation and put a water damage restoration plan into action.
What Tools Does Disaster Response Use for Water Damage Clean-Up?
We only use the best equipment! With our extensive experience in the Lake Mary restoration industry, we've acquired state-of-the-art tools designed to tackle a wide range of challenges. This experience has also allowed our technicians to identify which type of equipment is best for a particular situation. Some of the most common water damage restoration tools we use include:

Infrared Cameras
Our infrared cameras give us the ability to see moisture in walls and ceilings that is not visible to the naked eye, almost like having "X-ray" vision. This capability allows us to detect and address trapped and hidden humidity, significantly reducing the risk of mold growth.

Moisture Meters
We use moisture meters to measure moisture levels in cellulose material. Before and after the drying process, we will conduct moisture readings in all areas of your property. If we detect moisture in an unaffected area of your building, we'll get to work quickly to dry it.

Air Movers
This equipment is designed to work in conjunction with our dehumidifiers. While our dehumidifiers extract moisture from the air and convert it to a liquid, our Air Mover helps to circulate this moisture in the air so that the dehumidifier can effectively remove it.

Ozone Generators
These advanced tools enable us to cleanse affected surfaces and the air in a more effective manner. Ozone Generators work by causing oxygen molecules to implode, making them a valuable deodorization tool.

Xtreme Xtractor
This tool is great for tackling tough moisture after water damage. It allows us to apply direct pressure to a surface, like a carpet, that has soaked up water. The pressure helps draw out the water, making it easier to remove.
Top 3 Types of Water Damage You Should Know About
Water damage can strike without warning and can wreak havoc on your property, leaving you feeling hopeless and overwhelmed. Whether it's from a burst pipe, a severe storm, or an overflowing appliance, your property needs immediate water damage clean-up in Lake Mary, FL, to prevent further harm. Here are the top three types of water damage you should know about:

Clean Water Damage

This type of water damage happens from a "clean" source, such as rainwater or a broken pipe in your home. It's easier to clean up than others on this list but can still cause extensive property damage when ignored.

Gray Water Damage

Gray water damage stems from appliances such as toilets without feces, washing machines, and dishwashers. Gray water sometimes contains bacteria and contaminants that can make you or your family sick.

Black Water Damage

The name alone indicates the severity of this type of water damage. It's caused by backed-up sewer lines, river flooding, and standing water that supports bacteria growth. Black water presents serious health hazards and needs to be handled by professional water damage contractors.
If you suspect your home or business has been damaged by one or more of the types of water above, take the following steps:

- Be Safe: Turn off all electricity running through your property. Don't go near or touch any water you believe to be contaminated.
- Stop the Source of Water: If you're able, put a stop to the water at its source. That way, you can prevent more damage.
- Call Disaster Response: Contact our water damage company ASAP for water restoration services. Our team is available 24/7 to respond to emergencies.
Our Process for Water Damage Restoration in Lake Mary, FL
Having a water damage restoration company by your side who knows how to remediate moisture is a key factor in getting your life back on track. At Disaster Response, we have refined our process over 40+ years of water damage clean-up experience. That way, we can provide customers with reliable, comprehensive service when they need it the most.
We utilize powerful pumps and vacuums to eliminate standing water from your property. Swift water removal is essential in minimizing damage and lowering the likelihood of mold growth. Our team is dedicated to ensuring efficient water extraction to prevent any additional complications.
After extracting water from your property, we dry and dehumidify the impacted areas. We use industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers to do so to eliminate moisture from walls, floors, and furniture. Proper drying helps prevent warping, swelling, and the growth of mold.
Whenever we deal with water damage, we have to address the potential contaminants and bacteria that can enter your home. We make sure to thoroughly clean and sanitize all affected areas to create a safe living environment. This involves cleaning carpets, upholstery, and personal belongings. Our technicians also use antimicrobial treatments to prevent mold and bacterial growth.
The final step in the process is the restoration of your home to its pre-damage condition. This comprehensive restoration process may encompass a range of tasks, from minor repairs such as replacing drywall and installing new carpeting to major reconstruction efforts. Rest assured that Disaster Response is fully equipped to manage all aspects of water damage restoration, from start to finish.
- Maintenance: Have your business or home's roof, appliances, and plumbing inspected by professionals to spot early signs of wear and tear.
- Water Alarms: If there is a flood or leak in your home, a water alarm can alert you so that you can take action immediately.
- Drainage: Your home needs proper drainage systems in place at all times. To prevent water buildup, be sure to unclog your downspouts and gutters.
- Cracks and Gaps: Be sure to seal up any cracks and gaps in your property's foundation to limit water from getting inside.

The Water Damage Company in Lake Mary, FL, You Can Trust
When you want a great steak, you don't go to a fast-food joint and expect a filet. You go to a FD Prime Modern Steakhouse in Lake Mary. When you need quality disaster response services from licensed professionals, you don't go to a fly-by-night shop. You contact Disaster Response.
As a local water damage clean-up business, we believe that providing clients with effective service that they can rely on in times of stress is of utmost importance. While some of our competitors prioritize profits over people, you can rest easy knowing we care about you - and that's something you can always count on when you choose our water damage company.
Whether a pipe has burst in your commercial space and your showroom is flooding, or your home has standing water from a Lake Mary rainstorm, we're here for you 24/7. Contact our office to learn more about the Disaster Response difference or to schedule an inspection for your property today.
Contact Your Emergency Disaster Response Now!
Latest News in Lake Mary, FL
Tornado leaves trail of destruction in Lake Mary, toppling trees and flipping trailers
Catherine Silverhttps://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2025/03/10/tornado-leaves-trail-of-destruction-in-lake-mary-toppling-trees-and-flipping-trailers/
National Weather Service confirms rare EF-2 tornado LAKE MARY, Fla. – Several businesses near Skyline Drive are now dealing with damage after a rare tornado touched down in Lake Mary on Monday morning.Our News 6 crew surveyed the area, close to I-4 and Lake Emma Road and saw several trees had snapped and fallen onto f...
National Weather Service confirms rare EF-2 tornado
LAKE MARY, Fla. – Several businesses near Skyline Drive are now dealing with damage after a rare tornado touched down in Lake Mary on Monday morning.
Our News 6 crew surveyed the area, close to I-4 and Lake Emma Road and saw several trees had snapped and fallen onto fences and in parking lots. There was also a trailer that flipped on its side from the strong winds.
Emily Helmberger, who works at Aspire Communications, said the company uses the trailer for their traveling crews.
[PHOTOS: Damage across Central Florida as severe weather hits the area]
“We install fiber across the United States. Some of our guys like to stay in the trailer instead of an Air BNB or hotel,” said Helmberger. “We just actually fixed the A/C in this and now it’s pretty much broken.”
Helmberger said she was working Monday morning when all of the sudden the front doors started to swing open.
“The door is pretty heavy, so we just all ran inside an office with now windows,” said Helmberger. “It was really loud, but we didn’t hear a train sound or anything like that.”
Helmberger said a truck that was parked out front was just inches away from being crushed by a tree. There were more close calls than anything, but another car parked at the business next door did have a tree fall on top of it.
Felicia Powell, who works at HBK Engineering, said another tree that fell over nearly hit her car.
“I was in the office and a light started blinking, but when I heard the rumbling from the windows that’s what scared me more than anything,” said Powell.
Powell said the damage was done in a short amount of time.
Mark Katz, who also works in the area, said it all happened in less than a minute. He showed our News 6 crew the exhaust fan from an A/C unit that blew off the roof.
“[It] made a very loud sound,” said Katz. “[I] knew that the sound was not good when it came down.”
Katz said there is now a hole in the roof that will need to be fixed. Our News 6 crew saw workers assessing the damage Monday morning and starting to patch what they could so rain wouldn’t get into the building.
Katz said he has experienced hurricanes while working here before, but the damage from this storm was worse. Thankfully, there are no reported injuries.
“Probably between the three hurricanes that I’ve seen during this time working in this building, combined the damage doesn’t equate to what we’ve seen today,” said Katz.
Copyright 2025 by WKMG ClickOrlando - All rights reserved.
First significant tornado in over 25 years hits Lake Mary
Abigail Laffertyhttps://www.fox35orlando.com/news/first-significant-tornado-over-25-years-hits-lake-mary-1998-central-florida-tornado-outbreak
ORLANDO, Fla. - An EF2 tornado touched down in Seminole County, crossing over the FOX 35 News studios, as fast-moving severe storms pushed across Central Florida on Monday morning....
ORLANDO, Fla. - An EF2 tornado touched down in Seminole County, crossing over the FOX 35 News studios, as fast-moving severe storms pushed across Central Florida on Monday morning.
Press conference: NWS rates Lake Mary tornado EF2
The National Weather Service held a press conference following the tornado that made landfall in Lake Mary. The NWS ranked the tornado as an EF2 with 115 mph winds.
The tornado reportedly touched down with winds peaking at 115 mph at 9:36 a.m. – just two minutes after the National Weather Service (NWS) of Melbourne issued a tornado warning for the area, officials said.
Fortunately, there were no fatalities or injuries were reported, emergency management officials said in a news conference Monday afternoon.
RELATED: Video: Tornado crosses over FOX 35 Studios in Lake Mary, Florida
First significant tornado since 1998
The Lake Mary tornado is considered the first significant tornado that has touched down in Orange and Seminole County in over 25 years.
A significant tornado or EF2 is defined as a tornado that causes considerable damage with roofs torn off frame houses; mobile homes demolished; boxcars pushed over; large trees snapped or uprooted; light-object missiles generated. Wind speeds must also be between 113-157 mph, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).
RELATED: Live updates: Tornado damage, photos, videos in Lake Mary, Seminole County
1998 Central Florida tornado outbreak
According to the NWS, a powerful tornado outbreak in East-Central Florida on the night of February 22-23, 1998, became the deadliest in the state’s history, leaving 42 people dead and more than 260 others injured. Between approximately 11 p.m. and 2:30 a.m. Eastern Standard Time, seven tornadoes ripped through the National Weather Service Office (NWSO) Melbourne county warning area, causing widespread devastation.
The storm system produced unusually strong tornadoes, with three reaching F3 intensity on the Fujita Tornado Intensity Scale, with wind speeds between 158 and 206 mph. This event surpassed the previous record for tornado-related deaths in Florida, which stood at 17 from a 1962 tornado in the Florida Panhandle.
RELATED: Lake Mary tornado damage: Photos and videos
The tornadoes caused damage estimated at more than $100 million, destroying more than 700 structures and damaging over 3,000. While this assessment focuses on the NWSO Melbourne area, two additional tornado touchdowns were reported earlier in the evening in the NWSO Tampa Bay area.
This devastating outbreak remains the ninth deadliest weather-related event in Florida’s history, with the 1928 Lake Okeechobee hurricane holding the top spot with over 1,800 fatalities, according to the NWS.
What to do on St. Patrick’s Day in Central Florida
LeeAnn Huntoonhttps://www.wesh.com/article/st-patricks-day-events-central-florida-2025/64098723
, Fla. —Looking for festive St. Patrick’s events in Central Florida? You’re in luck. Here are some events and things to do near you. Green attire may be required.If you’re lucky you’ll have the chance to attend a few of the many events in Central Florida celebrating St. Patrick’s Day.St. Patrick’s Day Fes...
, Fla. —
Looking for festive St. Patrick’s events in Central Florida? You’re in luck. Here are some events and things to do near you. Green attire may be required.
If you’re lucky you’ll have the chance to attend a few of the many events in Central Florida celebrating St. Patrick’s Day.
St. Patrick’s Day Festival Spanish Springs
Orlando St. Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl
Boxi Park St. Patrick’s Day Shenanigans
Howl at the Moon Orlando St. Patrick’s Day Party
Grafton Street Saint Patrick's Day Weekend Celebration!
St Paddy’s Day Shakedown Block Party
The Mighty St. Patrick’s Day Festival
Florida high school football: Lake Mary announces 2025 schedule
Andy Villamarzohttps://www.si.com/high-school/florida/florida-high-school-football-lake-mary-announces-2025-schedule-01jp4vg79gp2
Football schedules for the 2025 season are starting to be announced all across the Sunshine State and High School On SI Florida will share these as we see them.Recently, the Lake Mary Rams announced the following slate of games for 2025. The Rams will play 10 games, including two contests against Lakeland and Miami Norland.A...
Football schedules for the 2025 season are starting to be announced all across the Sunshine State and High School On SI Florida will share these as we see them.
Recently, the Lake Mary Rams announced the following slate of games for 2025. The Rams will play 10 games, including two contests against Lakeland and Miami Norland.
Among other teams on the schedule are Bishop Moore, Evans, Oviedo, Kissimmee Osceola and at home against Sanford Seminole.
Below is the Rams' 2025 regular season schedule, with official game times to be announced.
2025 LAKE MARY RAMS FOOTBALL SCHEDULE
Aug. 15: at Oviedo (preseason)
Aug. 22: vs. Miami Norland
Aug. 29: at Kissimmee Osceola
Sep. 5: at Lakeland
Sep. 19: vs. Dr. Phillips
Sep. 26: vs. Hagerty
Oct. 3: vs. North Miami Beach
Oct. 10: vs. Sanford Seminole
Oct. 17: vs. Evans
Oct. 24: at Lake Brantley
Oct. 31: at Bishop Moore
More From High School On SI
• Virginia high school track star says hitting opponent in the head with baton was an accident
• Fake College Recruiter Arrested: Malcolm Walker Scammed Families Out of Thousands, Police Say
• Donovan McNabb's son offered by Michael Vick's Norfolk State
• 2025 Way-Too-Early Top 25 National High School Football Rankings: Mater Dei leads the pack
Follow High School On SI throughout the 2024 high school football season for Live Updates, the most up to date Schedules & Scores and complete coverage from the preseason through the state championships!
Be sure to Bookmark High School on SI for all of the latest high school football news.
High School On SI will serve as the premier destination for high school sports fans, delivering unparalleled coverage of high school athletics nationwide through in-depth stories, recruiting coverage, rankings, highlights and much more. The launch of a dedicated high school experience expands Sports Illustrated’s reach to even more local communities as fans can now truly follow athletes from “preps to the pros” on a single platform, bringing them closer to the action than ever before. For more information, visit si.com/high-school.
Download the SBLive App
To get live updates on your phone - as well as follow your favorite teams and top games - you can download the SBLive Sports app: Download iPhone App| Download Android App
-- Andy Villamarzo | villamarzo@scorebooklive.com | @highschoolonsi
TIMELINE: Here’s the path EF-2 tornado took across Seminole County
Brenda Arguetahttps://www.clickorlando.com/weather/2025/03/11/timeline-heres-the-path-ef-2-tornado-took-across-seminole-county/
SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. – An EF-2 tornado touched down Monday morning in Seminole County, traveling across part of the county for more than five minutes and reaching peak winds of 120 mph, according to the National Weather Service.The tornado damaged several residences, destroyed a two-story home in a Longwood subdivision and s...
SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. – An EF-2 tornado touched down Monday morning in Seminole County, traveling across part of the county for more than five minutes and reaching peak winds of 120 mph, according to the National Weather Service.
The tornado damaged several residences, destroyed a two-story home in a Longwood subdivision and snapped oak trees.
[RELATED: Damage across Central Florida as severe weather hits the area]
The NWS said the tornado touched down at 9:35 a.m. in Wekiwa Springs and traveled 4 miles across the county, ending at 9:41 a.m. in Lake Mary.
Path of EF-2 tornado
According to a NWS damage survey, the tornado touched down around 9:35 a.m. near the southeastern edge of Wekiwa Springs State Park with peak winds of 80-90 mph. It then headed northeast, crossing into the Wingfield Reserve subdivision of Longwood.
In these areas, the NWS said the only damage seen was downed trees in the state park and the Wingfield Reserve subdivision.
The tornado then tracked into the Whispering Winds subdivision, where the more substantial damage was seen, according to the NWS.
Several homes in the subdivision had “numerous blown out windows, damage to garage doors, as well as the loss of part of their roofs and awnings,” according to the damage report.
The NWS said the tornado likely peaked at this point, reaching winds of up to 120 mph. A two-story home on Blue Iris Place within the subdivision collapsed due to the intensity, the damage survey said.
The tornado’s circulation weakened at this point as it moved across Markham Woods Road and toward Interstate 4, where traffic stopped briefly as drivers waited for it to pass.
It then dissipated at 9:41 a.m.
A rare tornado
News 6 Chief Meteorologist Candace Campos said tornadoes of this magnitude are very rare in Central Florida. Typically, we see tornadoes ranging from EF-0 to EF-1.
Monday’s tornado was the strongest to hit Seminole County since the EF-3 on Feb. 23, 1998.
Compared to hurricane-force winds, Monday’s tornado had peak winds of 120 mph fall, which falls within the parameters of a major Category 3 hurricane. A Category 3 storm has 111-129 mph winds.
Here’s how tornadoes are classified:
Debris detector radar
One of the biggest radar signatures of Monday morning came around 9:40 a.m. when a well-defined “debris ball” was spotted crossing over I-4. This is a pattern that shows up as a bright round spot when a tornado has touched down, picking up debris from the ground.
This process works as the radar can detect not just rain or wind but anything that is airborne, including storm debris like roofing shingles and tree branches.
When paired with a velocity tracker, a debris ball can help confirm the location and intensity of a potential tornado on the ground.
Tornado safety
During severe weather or hurricane season, it’s important to know where the safe room is in your home.
Whether it’s your bathroom or closet, you want to find the most interior room on the lowest level to put the most walls between you and the outside of your home.
“Take this moment and take this as an example to just find that safe room, talk about it with your family,” News 6 Chief Meteorologist Candace Campos recommends.
Disclaimer:

