Florida is approximately the size of England and Wales. The landscape is mainly flat plain except for the undulating plateau of the Panhandle and the limestone outcrops known as the south Florida rock lands at the southern tip of the peninsula. The main bedrock underlying Florida is limestone which is porous and can collect water. This has given the region an enormous reservoir of fresh water which supplies its many lakes and streams. As a subtropical region with a very lengthy coastline, Florida is particularly at risk from storms and hurricanes .
Weather forecasts are therefore very important to the people and the economy of the state.
Particular attention is given to preparation for hurricanes including the evacuation of people to safety. Florida's coastline with its many islands and coral reefs has been particularly dangerous for shipping. In the Keys many people made their living from salvaging wrecks until a proper system of lighthouses and coastal protection was established. Florida's coastline consists of four main types of environment. The sandy beaches are most famous as the nesting sites of sea turtles.