Florida Natural Disaster and Journalism Summit

Presented by Press Forward South Florida, Press Forward Tampa Bay, and the University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications.

When a natural disaster strikes, lives depend on accurate, trusted information. We need to strengthen our information systems to meet the moment.

This first-ever statewide convening will bring together journalists, emergency managers, meteorologists, and nonprofit leaders at the University of Florida campus to develop a more networked and community-centered information response for the 2026 hurricane season and beyond.

Who should attend:

• Journalists and newsroom leaders on the frontlines of disaster coverage
• Emergency responders and public safety officials
• Nonprofit leaders serving vulnerable communities
• Philanthropic leaders investing in community resilience

Expect sessions on:

• How hurricane behavior is changing and how that affects how we communicate and plan for them
• How misinformation spreads during natural disasters and what we can do to interrupt that cycle
• How to map your community for a more collaborative information response
• How to work with “Emergency Mode for News” and other resource providers for newsrooms

Skills you'll take home:

• Scenario planning for rapidly changing disasters
• Cross-sector coordination to prevent communication breakdowns
• Community-centered techniques that serve residents' needs
• Trust-building frameworks that work when credibility is challenged

Questions? Email us at [email protected].

Registration is free, but limited to 100 participants. Secure your spot today.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher UF College of Journalism and Communications