Storm Season Starts Now—Here’s What to Know

June 2025

Dear Lakeland Residents,

As we welcome the summer season, we also enter the start of hurricane season. It's a time to enjoy the sunshine while staying mindful of storm preparedness.

The safety of our community is always a top priority. Now is the time to review your emergency plans, stock up on essential supplies, and stay informed.

In this issue, you'll find helpful resources on how to stay prepared, and ways to stay connected with your neighbors and city departments throughout the season.

Warm regards,

Shawn Sherrouse

City Manager

Hurricane Season is Here: Prepare Now to Stay Safe

June 1 marks the official start of hurricane season, and the City of Lakeland urges all residents to take proactive steps to ensure safety and resilience.

While we hope for a calm season, being prepared is essential.

Hurricane Preparation Checklist: A detailed guide to assembling your emergency supply kit, including essentials like water, food, medications, and important documents.

Hurricane Guide (PDF): An in-depth manual covering evacuation routes, shelter locations, and tips for securing your property.

Sandbag Distribution: Information on where and when to obtain sandbags to protect your property from flooding.

Shelter Information: A list of designated shelters, including pet-friendly options, to ensure you have a safe place to stay if evacuation becomes necessary.

Contractor & Repair Info: Guidance on hiring licensed contractors for post-storm repairs, helping you avoid scams and unlicensed activity.

Outage Updates: Stay informed about power outages and restoration efforts in your area.

Flood Zone Maps: Determine your property's flood risk and understand insurance requirements.

For real-time updates and emergency notifications, follow the City of Lakeland on social media and sign up for alerts through our official channels.

Lakeland Gov | Boil Water Notices | Solid Waste Collection | Alert Polk | National Hurricane Center

By taking these steps now, you can help ensure the safety and well-being of your family and community throughout the hurricane season.

Featured Stories

Red White & Kaboom

Lakeland's beloved Independence Day celebration, T. Mims Corp's Red White & Kaboom, is set to return on Thursday, July 3, 2025.

The event will take place at Lake Mirror along the Frances Langford Promenade from 6:00 p.m. to 9:15 p.m., featuring live music, food vendors, and a spectacular fireworks display at 9:00 p.m.

Residents are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy the festivities and secure a good viewing spot.

Learn More

E. Main Street Resurfacing Scheduled

The City of Lakeland has announced upcoming resurfacing work on E. Main Street, stretching from S. Florida Avenue to S. Massachusetts Avenue.Milling operations are scheduled to begin on Thursday, June 12 at 10:00 p.m. and continue through Friday, June 13 at 7:00 a.m.Paving is set to start on Sunday, June 15 at 10:00 p.m. and conclude by Monday, June 16 at 7:00 a.m.Motorists are advised to plan for possible detours and delays during these times.

Learn More

Lakeland Linder Airport Enhances Accessibility with GoodMaps

Lakeland Linder International Airport (LAL) has launched GoodMaps, an innovative indoor navigation platform designed to improve accessibility for travelers.

This technology offers precise, real-time navigation assistance, particularly benefiting individuals who are blind, low-vision, or have reduced mobility.

Learn More

Lake Bonny Pumping Operations Initiated

In preparation for the 2025 hurricane season, the City of Lakeland has obtained an Emergency Field Authorization to operate the Lake Bonny stormwater pump below its standard permitted level of 130.10 feet (NAVD).

This proactive measure aims to manage water levels effectively and mitigate potential flooding risks during storm events.

Learn More

Lakeland Youth Council Now Accepting Applications

High school students: want to make your voice heard? The Lakeland Youth Council is now accepting applications! This is your chance to learn how local government works, build leadership skills, and represent your peers.

🔗 Apply now to be part of something meaningful!

Learn More

Solid Waste Collection Schedule

Regular trash and recycling services will continue without interruption through June. Please note that the next holiday affecting collection will be Independence Day on Friday, July 4, 2025.

As we enter hurricane season, residents are reminded that storm debris should not be placed at the curb until after a storm has passed and city crews have provided collection guidance. For routine yard waste and bulk pickup, please follow standard scheduling and separation rules to keep our streets clear and safe.

Project Updates

Events

🎭 Lakeland Community Theatre: Disney’s Newsies Jr.

Type: Musical
Dates: June 13-22, 2025
Location: Lakeland Community Theatre
Details: Newsies JR. tells the inspiring story of newsboys who strike against powerful publishers in turn-of-the-century New York.

🎸 RP Funding Center: Stevie Ray Vaughan's 'Texas Flood'

Type: Classic Albums Live Concert
Date: June 21, 2025
Location: RP Funding Center
Details: Enjoy this note-for-note recreation of Stevie Ray Vaughan’s iconic debut album.

🖼️ Polk Museum of Art: Matisse to Gehry

Type: Gallery Exhibition
Dates: Ongoing through September 9, 2025
Details: Explore works on paper from legendary artists spanning nearly a century.

The Marshall Tucker Band Live at RP Funding Center

Date: September 13, 2025

Location: RP Funding Center, Lakeland, FL

Southern rock legends The Marshall Tucker Band will perform in Lakeland to celebrate 50 years since their 1974 show at the former Lakeland Civic Center. Fans can expect classic hits like “Can’t You See” and “Heard It in a Love Song,” plus special 1974-inspired ticket pricing. Tickets go on sale May 1. This milestone concert promises a night of soulful storytelling and timeless rock and roll.