Tyndall tests emergency readiness in annual hurricane drill

Tyndall Air Force Base personnel spent July 17-23 running a hurricane readiness exercise meant to pressure-test how the installation would respond to a fast-moving tropical threat, from early forecasts through potential evacuation and post-storm recovery. The five-day training event, known as a HUREX, emphasized rapid decision-making, cross-unit coordination and sustaining operations in the face of severe weather.

“For five to six months out of the year, we’re in hurricane season, and our peak period is in August and September,” said Lt. Col. Tyronda Kelly, 325th Civil Engineer Squadron commander and EOC director. “Everything we do must be intentional when it comes to preparedness. If you don’t take it seriously in the exercise, then you’re not going to know what to do if a real-world event were to take place.”

The drill engaged the wing operations center, emergency operations center and unit control centers in a synchronized command-and-control effort. The EOC served as the central node, bringing together representatives from across the base to manage information flow, direct response actions, track resources and keep the operations picture current for decision-makers.

“The main thing you have to do is just keep everybody calm in a state of chaos,” Kelly explained regarding the EOC’s role. “People tend to want to rush to do things, moving in a million different directions. The first thing you have to do is just bring them all together and bring them back to the mission.”

As the simulated storm approached, units worked through the Air Force’s HURCON scale, which runs from 5 to 1, with HURCON 1 signaling the most imminent danger. Each step triggers detailed checklists to secure equipment, protect infrastructure and prepare people and aircraft for severe conditions. “Building that muscle memory for referencing the checklist and conducting the actions within it is what’s important,” Kelly said. “As much as we like to think people prep ahead of time, the reality is they typically don’t look at them until they need them.”

Scenario injects included destructive winds, extensive flooding and the movement of personnel and aircraft out of harm’s way. After the simulated landfall, base recovery element teams fanned out to survey damage, open routes and report hazards to the EOC so leaders could sequence repairs and restore basic functions safely.

“The most dangerous part of the recovery phase is ignoring official guidance and underestimating the dangers that remain,” said Master Sgt. Karen Shubert, an inspector assigned to the 325th Fighter Wing Inspector General office. “High winds, blocked routes and debris are still potential threats. It’s important to stay calm, wait for instructions and avoid venturing out and putting yourself in harm’s way.”

While specialized teams tackle installation-wide recovery, officials underscored that readiness begins at home—well before a storm forms. “You’re never completely ready, so it’s critical to be prepared,” Shubert said. “Create a checklist, secure your important documents and map out multiple evacuation routes- a Plan A, B and C. For reliable information, follow trustworthy media outlets and have a radio, as you can’t count on networks and Wi-Fi during a hurricane.”

Located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Tyndall sits in one of the nation’s most hurricane-prone regions and suffered catastrophic damage from Hurricane Michael in 2018. With peak storm activity approaching in August and September, base leaders said the exercise was an opportunity to validate playbooks, strengthen communication and reinforce habits they expect to rely on when the next storm threatens. Officials directed service members and families to the installation’s hurricane information site for additional preparedness resources.