KnowBe4 Weathers Hurricane Helene

In October, Hurricane Helene brushed past the Tampa Bay area, missing KnowBe4’s headquarters in Clearwater by about 100 miles. Despite not making direct landfall, the storm's impact was significant, with a record-breaking storm surge of nearly 7 feet in Clearwater – over 2 feet higher than the previous record (and it was even higher in other areas). Storm surge is the abnormal rise in seawater level during a storm, primarily caused by strong winds pushing water onshore. It can cause severe coastal flooding, inundating low-lying areas and potentially reaching far inland, and is often the deadliest aspect of hurricanes and tropical storms.

As a global organization, we're thankful for our hybrid structure, where we have the ability to pivot quickly and work remotely when needed, ensuring zero downtime during this event. Our dedicated security and IT teams were well-prepared with robust plans for systems and solar backup for equipment. Their proactive approach exemplifies our commitment to business continuity in the face of natural disasters.

While we were fortunate to weather Hurricane Helene with minimal disruption, we are acutely aware that many others in our community and beyond were not as lucky. The storm's devastating impact left numerous homes flooded, destroyed personal property including boats and cars, and tragically claimed several lives. Our hearts go out to all those affected by this disaster. As we reflect on our own experience, we're reminded of the critical importance of community support, disaster preparedness, and the urgent need to address climate change to mitigate future catastrophes. 

Helene serves as a stark reminder of the increasing intensity and frequency of hurricanes. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the proportion of hurricanes reaching Category 3 or higher has increased by about 25% since the 1970s. This trend aligns with climate change predictions, regardless of one's stance on human contribution.

The earth is warming at an unprecedented rate. NASA reports that the planet's average surface temperature has risen about 2°F (1.1°C) since the late 19th century, with most of the warming occurring in the past 40 years. For a visual representation of this rapid warming, check out the "warming stripes" graphic by climate scientist Ed Hawkins, below.

While these statistics may seem daunting, we can always count on nature's resilience to offer hope. During the storm, I captured these images on my property shortly before the worst of it hit:

These snapshots remind us of nature's enduring beauty and adaptability. The passionflower, living its best life despite the harsh weather, exemplifies resilience. As a side note, the passionflower has been used in traditional medicine to treat anxiety, insomnia, and nervousness, which is kind of perfect in the face of a hurricane. The two frogs, finding shelter together in my sliding glass doors, represent the importance of community in facing challenges. 

As we navigate the complexities of climate change, let's draw inspiration from nature's resilience. By working together, adapting to new realities, and maintaining our connection to the natural world, we can build a more sustainable and resilient future.