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⛈️ The forecast is in
Even if the season could be less active than usual, it’s never too early to start storm preparations. | Photo by LALtoday
No hurricanes made landfall in the US during the 2025 season, leaving Lakelanders to wonder what this year will bring. Forecasters predict below-normal activity, but here’s what to know as prep begins ahead of the 2026 hurricane season’s official start on Monday, June 1.
What’s the forecast?
Colorado State University released its first 2026 Atlantic hurricane season forecast on Thursday, April 9, and its next will be released in June. The forecast calls for “somewhat below-normal activity” due to changing water temperatures caused by El Niño.
Here are the predictions, compared to the seasonal averages:
13 named storms (average: 14.4)
Six hurricanes (average: 7.2)
Two major hurricanes (average: 3.2)
15% chance of a hurricane making landfall on the Florida peninsula (average: 21%)
Lists of potential names are released by the National Hurricane Center. This year’s list includes Arthur, Dolly, Kyle, Omar, and Sally — just to name a few.
Yacht Rock Nite | 8 p.m. | Union Hall | $20+ “The Shark Is Broken” | Friday, April 10-Sunday, April 12 | Times vary | Lakeland Community Theatre | $28+
Thanks to this week’s rain, Polk County has temporarily suspended its countywide burn ban. Key word: temporarily. The weather is forecast to dry up soon, so the ban is only paused through Thursday, April 16.
Watch
The Guppy has landed — we repeat, NASA’s Super Guppy aircraft landed at SUN ‘n FUN. With a 156-ft wingspan, you can’t miss this one on display next week. Fun fact: Its pilot will pick up the Artemis II crew after tonight’s splashdown, albeit in a likely smaller plane.
Coming Soon
Pilates studios are having a moment in Lakeland. Pike Pilates is now under development in the Alamo Plaza in south Lakeland, and it’s aiming to open with infrared classes in June.
Shop
It’s been two years since The Modern Pearl opened near Lake Morton, and next week, the boutique is celebrating in style. Starting Monday, April 13, follow along on Instagram to learn about a new deal each day, leading up to a VIP shopping party on Thursday, April 16.
Active
Mayfaire by-the-Lake is just a month away, and 50% of slots are filled for the annual 5K road race at 7 p.m. on Saturday, May 9. The $38 sign-up fee includes a golden-hour run, a finisher medal, and a T-shirt featuring this year’s featured artwork.
Community
Temple Emanuel will host a Holocaust and Heroism Remembrance Day program at 7 p.m. on Monday, April 13. All are invited to join a presentation by photographer Dr. Craig Collins, followed by a panel discussion.
Legacy
John Carpenter, who racked up 500+ wins while coaching local high school baseball for decades, died last week at the age of 83. Players and loved ones remember him not just as a caring coach, but also as an inspiring mentor and teacher. (The Ledger)
Kids
PCPS’ Camp Early Bird offers free, summer-camp-style prep for incoming kindergartners. This year’s session is set for June 3-25, and registration opens Wednesday, April 15 at 8 a.m. The early bird really does get the worm, because seats are first-come, first-served.
Learn
When money gets tight and prices keep climbing, cutting back can feel overwhelming. The good news? You don’t have to do everything at once. Start with this list of money-saving strategies and pick one or two to begin. Even small changes can make a meaningful difference.*
Pro Tip
Never hit the hiking trail without the essentials. This functional waist pack features a built-in bottle holder, large main compartment, and multiple zipper pockets to keep water, snacks, and safety gear organized and within reach. Bonus: it’s under $25.*
Health
Health
Hernia pain isn’t something to ignore — here’s what to know
Presented by Lakeland Regional Health
Expert hernia care designed to get you back to feeling your best, faster. | Photo provided by Lakeland Regional Health
A hernia happens when tissue pushes through a weak spot in muscle — often causing a noticeable, sometimes painful bulge. It’s more common than many think, affecting one in five men.
Self-care isn’t all spa days and forest bathing — although we do love a nice hot stone massage. More often than not, it’s the simple things like prioritizing rest, practicing good hygiene, and practicing mindfulness. Elevate your self-care rituals with these five products:
🧤 Treat your skin to a little TLC with this best-selling exfoliating glove that removes dead skin + cleans pores.
🛏️ Look forward to snuggling into bed every night thanks to these luxury bamboo sheets with cooling properties.
🫖 Pair your new sheets with this herbalist-formulated chamomile tea to help wind down before bed.
🚿 Turn your shower into an aromatherapy escape with this top-rated pack of shower steamers.
🧦 When you’re craving comfort + relaxation, don this heated blanket hoodie.
Bloom at BSP made my list of top things I did in 2025, and I’m excited it’s returning to Bonnet Springs Park tomorrow + Sunday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. It’s free to attend, walk through floral installations, listen to live music, and take garden tours. Pro tip: The Event Center parking lot is closest to the festival.
Taylormade Floral Design installed these boardwalk blooms for last year’s festival — I can’t wait to see what they come up with this year.
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