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Watertight fence protects Tampa General Hospital during Hurricane Milton

October 11, 2024

Tampa General Hospital (TGH), the region’s only Level 1 trauma center, remained operational during Hurricane Milton thanks to an innovative temporary fence called an AquaFence, which the hospital had invested in four years ago. Despite being in a high-risk flood zone under mandatory evacuation, the staff stayed confident in AquaFence’s protection. Known for its watertight, reusable fences, an AquaFence can cost anywhere from $350 to $1,000 per linear foot. (Merritt, 2024)

TGH also has a robust plan to protect its facilities from severe weather. The hospital’s Central Energy Plant was designed to provide backup power and withstand a Category 5 hurricane. Additionally, a well and 5,000 gallons of water are on-site for patients and staff. TGH and its affiliated hospitals have more than five days worth of supplies, including food and linens. Emergency-trained staff also stayed on-site during the storm, with additional personnel ready to support post-storm recovery. (Henkels, 2024)

Sources:

Merritt, M. (2024, October 10). Morning Brew. How Tampa General withstood two hurricanes. https://www.morningbrew.com/daily/stories/can-aquafence-hold-up-to-hurricane-milton

Henkels, P. (2024, October 8). WTSP Tampa Bay. Tampa General Hospital sets up 'aquafence,' preparedness plan ahead of Hurricane Milton. https://www.wtsp.com/article/weather/hurricane/hurricane-milton/tampa-general-hospital-aquafence-preparedness-plan-hurricane-milton/67-5df833d2-4732-4e21-9375-cff383b25459