Florida Division of Emergency Management Announces “Hurricane Awareness Machine” to Participate in Daytona 500 Weekend
DAYTONA, Fla. - Today, the Florida Division of Emergency Management (Division) announced their participation in the 2023 Daytona 500. In partnership with Mike Boylan from Mike's Weather Page, the Hurricane Awareness Machine will make its racing debut during the Daytona 500 weekend events happening February 17-19, 2023.
"At the end of the day, it’s always a win when we are able to educate individuals on the importance of preparedness and how to be ready for severe weather events," said Division Director Kevin Guthrie. “Thanks to Mike for including us in this event - I look forward to watching the Hurricane Preparedness Machine race this weekend!”
“I’m very proud to have this important state and county participation at race weekend,” said Mike Boylan. “Not only will we have a chance to bring awareness to ongoing recovery efforts from Hurricane Ian and Nicole, but also pass out information to help Floridians get ready for the 2023 Atlantic Hurricane Season.”
"We can't wait to see the 'Hurricane Awareness Machine' this Saturday as it takes the grand stage on the world's most famous racetrack," said Volusia County Emergency Services Director Jim Judge. "Mike is all about making sure people stay alert, informed and safe during times of distress, and he's bringing the message of hurricane readiness to the 500!"
"Florida was heavily impacted by 2 hurricanes last year, so this is such an important effort to spread hurricane awareness, “said Hurricane Awareness Machine Driver Bayley Currey. “It is so awesome to have the Florida Division of Emergency Management participating in this and riding along on the car with me! I am really happy to be a part of it with Mike’s Weather Page that does such a great job, and all the great sponsors supporting the project."
The Hurricane Preparedness Machine will compete on Saturday, February 18 in the NASCAR Xfinity Series “Beef. It’s What’s for Dinner” 300 beginning at 5:00 PM ET. Director Kevin Guthrie will participate in pre-race events handing out weather radios as well as handouts on Florida severe weather safety to attendees.
Sponsors and partners include Firman Power Equipment, OneSource Restoration, Victory Powerline Services, and Coastal Claims. The 'Hurricane Awareness Machine' will be driven by Bayley Currey (#4) who has compiled 152 starts across the NASCAR Xfinity Series, NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series and the NASCAR Cup Series.
Updated: Friday, February 17, 2023
