VISIT FLORIDA POST-WILMA STATEMENT

Tallahassee, FLA � (October 24, 2005) - Hurricane Wilma crossed lower south Florida and emerged into the Atlantic Ocean fairly quickly Monday leaving areas in the extreme south without power. Local and state officials are working rapidly today to assess the damage created by Hurricane Wilma and restore power.

�More than half of Florida was unaffected by Hurricane Wilma and the sun is shining in those areas. However, extreme southern portions of the state experienced most of Wilma�s rain, wind and storm surge effects. We have initial reports of power outages and vegetation damage in these areas but it is far too early to be more specific,� said Bud Nocera, president and chief executive officer of VISIT FLORIDA.

�I can tell you that Florida is a very resilient, responsive and prepared destination. State and local emergency officials have demonstrated this during previous storms with effective safety measures, preparedness programs and a timely response that helps to preserve lives and prevent damage. It is important to remember that Florida has gained hands-on experience in preparing for and responding to the Atlantic Hurricane Season over the years. Our visitors� safety is of utmost importance. Armed with modern technology and lessons learned, Florida is prepared to make a speedy recovery in those areas that were affected by the hurricane."

VISIT FLORIDA is staying in contact with the state�s tourism industry in order to provide both potential visitors, as well as visitors already in-state, with important destination and emergency contact information and hotel availability. Check the listing below to learn more.

Alternative Accommodations:

A number of local visitor bureaus have posted accommodations availability information on their respective web sites. Links to local visitor and emergency information can be found at www.VISITFLORIDA.com , or for accommodations information statewide, from the US you can call 1-800-287-8598 and from the UK call 001-800-287-9598.

For the latest weather advisories, stay tuned to local news stations or visit www.emergencyemail.org or www.noaa.com.

Important Information:

Hotel availability: to call VISIT FLORIDA's tourism emergency hotline from the UK call 001-800-287-8598.

National Hurricane Centre: www.nhc.noaa.gov

Florida Emergency Management Centre: www.myflorida.com

Statewide tourism information: www.VISITFLORIDA.com

Destination News: media.VISITFLORIDA.org at Hurricane Information

Media Contact:

Esther Williamson, VISIT FLORIDA UK PRESS OFFICE, Tel + 44 (0)1825 763633 or e-mail. Esther.Williamson@kbc-pr.com