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Last updated: March 31, 2024Type: Thunderstorm

Spring brings threat of tornadoes, severe thunderstorms. What you should know in Florida

Meteorological spring arrived March 1, and with it comes new weather threats, this time from tornadoes.

AccuWeather is warning residents across the United States “the threat of damaging thunderstorms and tornadoes across the United States will rise in the coming weeks as the spring severe weather season ramps up.”

While the season may get off to a slow start, don’t expect conditions to stay that way.

The threat for tornadoes and damaging storms will escalate after reaching the midpoint of the season, according to AccuWeather Lead Long-Range Forecaster Paul Pastelok.

What’s that mean for Florida? The highest risk for tornadoes is expected to be in March.

That’s sure to be unwelcome news for those in the state already affected by tornadoes earlier this year, including a powerful EF-3 tornado that hit Bay County in January.

Affected Counties in Florida

Mack Hales
Consultant
Mack Hales has spent the past 4 decades helping clients prepare for retirement and manage their finances successfully. He also works with strategies that help clients put away much more money for their retirement than they could in an IRA or even a 401 k. We involve the client’s CPA and/or their tax attorney to be sure the programs meet the proper tax codes. Working with clients, we work with them to customize a plan that is centered around their needs and preferences. Our goal is to help the client retire worry free with as much tax-free income as possible. Mack has resided in Gainesville, GA since 1983, so this is considered home. Mack is married to his wife of 50 years, has two boys and five grandchildren.
Jessica Hartline
VP Property Casualty - Agent - P&C
Jessica Hartline is a business owner and entrepreneur with 29 years of experience in the insurance and financial services industry. A proud Sebring, Florida native, Jessica has spent the last 17 years starting, acquiring, and merging businesses. She is dedicated to building successful agencies and offering expert consulting to empower businesses and professionals to excel.
Luke Roane
Luke Roane
Consultant
Hi, I’m Luke Roane from Carnesville, Georgia. I am a proud Christian, husband, and farmer,  spent my life deeply connected to the land and the agricultural community. I row crop, raise broiler chickens, and manage a herd of cattle, which has given me firsthand experience with the challenges and rewards of farming. After years of working the land, I’m excited to offer crop insurance to fellow farmers. My background in agriculture, combined with my commitment to helping others protect their livelihoods, enables me to guide you through the complexities of crop insurance and ensure that your operation is well-covered when you need it most. My goal is to support farmers like you, just as I’ve always been supported by my own community.
Cole Revis
Cole Revis
Consultant - Whole Farm
Cole is a 4th generation apple and produce farmer from southwestern NC.  After graduating Clemson University in 2020 with Ag Mechanization and Business degrees, he joined in the family business managing the grower, packer, shipping operation.  He is most looking forward to helping producers have a positive insurance experience so that those ag relationships can remain a vital part of our country.
Garrett Duke
Consultant
Garrett Duke, a lifelong resident of Avon Park, FL, graduated from the University of Florida in 2011 with a degree in Agriculture Operations Management and a minor in Horticulture Production.    He is the owner/operator of Duke Citrus where he manages 300 acres of family-owned groves.  He also provides citrus production services for citrus growers all over the state of Florida.
Max Duke
Max Duke
Agent - P&C
Prior to his 40 years in the insurance industry, Max was raised in Georgia, graduated with a business degree from Troy State University in Alabama, and settled in Florida.  He knows the southeast.  Having owned insurance agencies specializing in Property, Casualty and Life coverage, and Financial Services, Max enjoys working with clients.  He is also a citrus farmer and fully supports the goals of CIMX ag to better educate our customers to help make their operations more sustainable.  Max has been married for 44 years and has 3 children and 9 grandchildren.
Carson Dunlap
Carson Dunlap
Consultant
Growing up on a family farm in Bertha, AL, Carson Dunlap learned to appreciate all things ag.  Now, as a row crop farmer and broiler producer, he leans strongly on those roots.  By tying in his knowledge of the industry, Carson most looks forward to helping other producers to use all resources available to them to make their operations the best they can be.  Carson loves the southeast Alabama area and enjoys spending time with his family and riding horses.
Dr. Gerard Krewer
Dr. Gerard Krewer
Professor Emeritus - Consultant
Dr. Krewer holds degrees from the College of Coastal Georgia, the University of Georgia, and Clemson University in horticulture. He worked as a county agent and Small Fruit Specialist with UGA for almost 30 years. He saw the Georgia blueberry industry grow from 1,500 acres when he started work in Tifton to 20,000 acres when he retired. Dr. Krewer is the recipient of the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council’s 2022 Duke Galletta Award for excellence in horticultural research. After retiring from UGA, he developed a certified organic blueberry farm in Woodbine, Ga., and ran it for eight years. Currently, he consults on about 2,000 acres of blueberries in the Southeast. Dr. Krewer divides his time between Jensen Beach, Fla., and Dover Bluff, Ga. His main hobbies are fishing, reading, and gardening.
Clayton Waller
Clayton Waller
Compliance Manager - Agent
Clayton Waller is a third-generation farmer, agribusiness consultant, and equipment broker from Clyo, GA. Deeply rooted in ag, Clayton is passionate about preserving the future of family farms and American agriculture. With emphasis on education and interpretation of policies, Clayton has been consulting and helping operations obtain risk management goals for nearly over a decade. Clayton attended Patrick Henry Academy in Estill, SC and then went on to Georgia Southern University and obtained a B.B.A. in Logistics and Intermodal Transportation. After returning home to his family farm after college, he formed CTW Farms, a diverse row crop operation alongside his father’s established operation. He also then began a career in the crop insurance industry starting out as an office/processing manager and then soon became a fully licensed crop insurance agent. Over his career in the crop insurance business, he brings experience in policies for row crops, specialty crops, hay, and livestock. Clayton has established many agricultural relationships in both GA and SC over the years, particularly in the Savannah River Valley. Clayton was recognized in 2019 as Agribusinessman of the Year in the Effingham County Young Farmers chapter. In 2022, he was a finalist for the National Outstanding Young Farmers Program recognizing his accomplishments as a young producer. His favorite pastimes are golf, guitars, tinkering in the shop, and riding around the Savannah Valley Region in his old Jeep.
Chris Heptinstall
Chris Heptinstall
Agent - PRF - Cattle
Chris holds a degree in Animal and Dairy Sciences from Auburn University.  After graduation, he has served in various positions including General Manager at the Oneonta, Alabama branch of the Alabama Farmer's Cooperative; and Operations Manager at the once heralded Camp Cooley Ranch in Franklin, Texas—the third largest seedstock ranch in the nation at the time.  Also among his accomplishments, Chris notes his time as  General Manager at Salacoa Valley Farms in Fairmount, Georgia, where he was instrumental in leading to the acquisition of Salacoa Valley by the Seminole Tribe of Florida, Inc.—the sixth largest cow/calf operation in the United States at the time, and allowing for the expansion of the Salacoa Valley operation to be the third largest Brangus operation in the International Brangus Breeders Association, and an honored member of Beef magazine’s Seedstock 100, selling over 500 bulls annually.  During his tenure, Chris gained knowledge of branded beef programs as the Tribe was promoting their Seminole Pride Beef Program. He was also instrumental in developing the Cattle Country commercial female sale in south Florida on the Brighton Seminole Indian Reservation where they sold 1000 plus bred and open heifers from their bull customers. Later, Chris made the move to Quail Valley and then on to Southern Cattle Company, serving as managers over their operations.  After years of experience in all aspects of the cattle industry, the opportunity presented itself for he and his wife to step out and start their own sales, marketing, and consulting business - Premier Livestock Services, LLC.  Now, his license as a crop insurance agent allows him to broaden his ability to help you make the most of your operation.
Joe DeLallo v2
Joe DeLallo
Marketing Coordinator
Joe DeLallo is passionate about telling stories that connect people, a skill he brings to his role as Marketing Coordinator at CIMXAG. With a background in communications and digital media, he has spent over a decade creating content that engages audiences and builds strong relationships. Joe earned a B.A. in Communications (TV & Digital Film) from SUNY Fredonia and has worked in various roles, from church communications to video production. He also started Storybee, a small business focused on helping people and organizations tell their stories through video. At CIMXAG, Joe is dedicated to making sure farmers and agribusinesses have access to clear, helpful, and engaging information. When he’s not working, Joe enjoys spending time with his family in Cumming, GA, and finding new ways to get creative behind the camera.
Reggie Cooper
Reggie Cooper
Agent - Citrus - Whole Farm
My name is Reggie Cooper. I was born and raised in Sebring, Florida and still reside there today. I have a background in brokering Florida citrus (specializing in the fresh juice market), own a bail bonds business, and welding and fabrication business. Some of my hobbies include coyote hunting, fishing, and air boating. I am happy to be a part of the CIMX team!
Kayla Huffmaster
Kayla Huffmaster
Agent - Processor - P&C - Crop
My first experience in agriculture began in a first-generation row crop operation that provided a deep understanding of the agricultural process from the ground up. This hands-on, foundational experience developed within me a passion and knowledge that later transitioned into serving the ag industry in various capacities. My skills as a certified turfgrass professional, crop insurance underwriter and crop insurance agent have led me to CIMX Ag Insurance where I look forward to helping assist farmers in managing risk and securing livelihoods. I enjoy spending time with my three kids, attending concerts, and being outdoors on my own homestead in Reynolds, GA.
cheryl
Cheryl Tillery
Agent - P&C - Life
Cheryl Tillery was raised on a farm in rural Georgia. She has had her insurance license for over 20 years and has experience is processing Crop Insurance, Property and Casualty, and LIFE insurance. Cheryl is a great asset to the CIMXag team and is looking forward to continuing to serve her community's insurance needs
Joni Smith
Operations Manager - Agent - P&C - Crop
Joni was raised on her multi-generational family row crop and cattle farm in Ochlocknee, GA. After earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science from Louisiana Tech University, she came home to Georgia and has served in various capacities of agriculture. Her skills range from livestock production to office management, with strengths in bookkeeping and tax preparation. She loves spending time with her husband and two children, fitness and being outdoors.
Tripp Smith
Agent - P&C - Crop - Cattle
Tripp comes to CIMXag with a lifetime of experience in row crop and cattle production. As a 1999 graduate of Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College, he has created many relationships in Georgia, Florida and Alabama in the farming and ranching communities. Some of his favorite pastimes include working cattle, horses, dogs, bird hunting, and fishing. Tripp and his wife have 2 children that they have raised in the agriculture industry. He is eager to assist his clients in production to their utmost capability.
Rick Craven
CEO - CAO
Rick Craven, the visionary CEO and Partner of CIMXag, has been an entrepreneur and small business owner for more than 30 years. He has worked to build strong companies from the ground up that have served local, national, and international markets. His wealth of experience brings an understanding of the constantly changing challenges and rewards of operating a business. Rick was raised on his family farm in Baxley before moving to Atlanta. In his spare time, he enjoys traveling, cooking, and spending time with his family and dogs. CIMXag is excited to have Rick bring his energy, leadership skills, and determination to serve the agricultural community.
James Galvin
James Galvin
Marketing - Events
James holds a Master's Degree in Agricultural Education from the University of Georgia with an emphasis in Produce Production. Galvin has spent his entire career in Agriculture Education specifically in Youth and Adult Agricultural Programs. He spent a considerable amount of time researching effective practices in Produce Production. He spent the last 17 years as Agriculture Education/Young Farmer Director in Appling County, Georgia. During his pursuit of excellence in all his endeavors, he and several of his students have earned national recognition for their efforts in Community Development-Beach Restoration and Proficiency in Fruit Production and various other disciplines of Agriculture. Galvin is also a proud Veteran. He was born in Washington, DC and has spent his career teaching in Florida and Georgia. Galvin resides in South Georgia with his wife of 42 years. Together they raised three children. They share their lakeside home with their Yorkie, Maggie and their cat, Allie. His hobbies include grilling and serving as the Treasurer for his Church.
Ryan Jacobs
BDM - Consultant
Ryan Jacobs' journey began in Willard, Ohio, where he honed his Midwestern values before venturing south to Georgia. After graduating from Willard High School, he landed in Alpharetta to pursue a Business Administration degree at Georgia State University, graduating in 2003. Fueled by entrepreneurial spirit, Ryan embarked on a career path of buying, building, and selling businesses and real estate. This experience instilled in him a wealth of knowledge and expertise that he now leverages as a business and operations consultant for CIMXag. When not immersed in the world of business, Ryan enjoys life in Ball Ground with his wife and two children.
Megan Branch
Marketing
Megan Branch was raised on her family farm in Cleveland, Ga. She graduated with her Associates Degree of Business from Young Harris College in 2012. After marrying Shane Branch, she moved to Baxley, Ga. She previously worked as a paraprofessional at the local primary school. She now enjoys being at home raising her children. Megan looks forward to serving CIMXag Insurance in Marketing and Events.
Dale Clark
Consultant - Grant Advisor
Dale Clark is a retired educator from Montgomery County with over 40 years of service with 26 of those years in School Administration and Leadership including teaching, counseling, Federal Projects Coordinator, Principal, and Superintendent. Dale is an invaluable asset to the CIMXag family with her experience in writing and evaluating grants, preparing federal and state applications along with developing research projects. Outside of work Dale spends much of her time volunteering and spending time with her family.
John Brock
Agent - Comm/Ag Realestate - CG 2505 - P&C - Life - Crop
John Brock is an agent with CIMXag, specializing in real estate. With over 35 years of experience as a licensed Real Estate agent and broker, John has successfully brokered over 18,000 acres of land. He also holds a State of Georgia Appraisal license and has appraised over 11,000 properties. John‘s background also includes 45 years of farming experience, managing poultry, cattle, and hay operations on his family farm. Last year, he obtained his P&C license and entered the insurance arena. Outside of work, John takes great pride in his three children. Currently, John is working on acquiring other insurance offices with a focus on crop insurance. Additionally, he is managing the administrative work of CIMXag, ensuring the company’s infrastructure keeps up with its rapid growth. John believes that having a comprehensive understanding of the situation, coupled with diligent work, leads to the best outcomes. This philosophy continues to guide his professional endeavors.
Reagan Craven
CFO - Agent - P&C Crop - Processor
Reagan Craven is a student at Georgia Southern University. She is the daughter of Amy and Rick Craven. She enjoys spending time with family, friends, and her dog Dozer. Reagan is excited to be a part of CIMXag while she continues pursuing her college education.
Scott Prospect
Agent - Organic Specialist - P&C
Scott Prospect grew up in Port Orange, FL and graduated from the University of Florida in 2003 with a B.S. degree in Plant Science. Scott has worked with several of the largest organic growers in Florida and .in the leafy green industry developing food safety manuals. Currently Scott lives in Gainesville, FL wife his wife, Tish, and his two girls, Scott is looking forward working for CIMXag and continuing 5to work with and serve growers in the industry.1
Brian Bone
CEO Benifa - Produce Broker - Consultant
Brian Bone grew up on his family cattle ranch in Sebring, FL. After graduating from Sebring High School, he attended University of Florida. In 2002, he turned professional and played professional golf for 6 years. After his playing career he caddied on the PGA Tour for 3 years. In 2014, he started Valley Produce Co. In 2018, he took over COO of Queen Bee Farms and remains in that capacity today. Brian lives with his five children, ages 5-11, in Sebring on the ranch he grew up on. CIMXag is proud to have Brian join us as a consultant.
Erica Cannon
Agent - Crop Strategist - P&C - Crop
Erica Cannon grew up in Central Florida on a small family horse farm. She currently has two horses, one who is retried, and the other being her current competition horse. She graduated from University of Central Florida with a Bachelors in Biology, with a focus on plant science and gentics. After college, she was employed by Gowan Seed Company as a Product Development Specialist and has covered North Florida and Georgia for 4 and a half years. Erica will continue to support growers with her field knowledge as an Agent for CIMXag insurance.
Jeffrey Craven Jr
Agent - Rm-Compiliance - CPIA - PC
Jeffrey Craven Jr. grew up in Monroe, Georgia. In 2022, he graduated with his Bachelors Degree from Mercer University. Jeffrey met his wife Drew Craven at Mercer, and they were both involved in several student organizations. Jeffrey now serves as an agent and risk management advisor of CIMXag Insurance. He is a member of many agriculture organizations including the Crop Insurance Professionals Association, the Georgia Agribusiness Council, and the American Coalition for Rural Engagement.
Shane Branch
VP Crop Ins- Agent - PC
Shane Branch is a fourth-generation farmer in Baxley, Georgia. Shane previously worked at Branch Farm Supply, a family-owned feed, seed, and fertilizer dealer. He also farmed over 7,000 acres of row crops for several years alongside his family. The Georgia Peanut Commission recognized Shane as the 2021 Outstanding Georgia Young Peanut Farmer for his farming accomplishments. Since 2018, Shane has served as an officer in the Appling County Young Farmers Association. Shane, his wife Megan, and their two children are lifetime residents of Baxley, Georgia. Shane continues to support Georgia's agriculture community as an agent and advisor of CIMXag Insurance.
Jeff Craven
COO - Agent - PC
Jeff Craven grew up on his family farm in Baxley, Georgia. In 1985, he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from the University of Georgia. After graduating, he served six years in the United States Marine Corps Reserves. In 1995, Jeff became the Vice President and co-owner of Perimeter Landscaping, a role he had for twenty-three years. He is married to Cathy Craven, they have two children Ann Williams and Jeffrey Craven Jr. Jeff is returning to his agriculture roots as President and agent of CIMXag Insurance.