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Thursday's Afternoon Update

Most Florida flood zone property not insured

As Hurricane Irma bears down on Florida, an Associated Press analysis shows a steep drop in flood insurance across the state, including the areas most endangered by what could be a devastating storm surge. More from the AP.

See also:
» Hurricane Irma evacuations begin in Miami: 'This storm is bigger, faster and stronger than Andrew'

American Airlines shuts down Florida operations

American Airlines is preparing to shut down operations across Florida as Hurricane Irma approaches. Officials said in a news release that the airline will cease operations at its Miami hub as well as in Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach and Fort Myers on Friday afternoon. More from the Island Packet.

Hurricane Irma threat stalls online ordering, pickup in Central Florida

A run on supplies because of the pending Hurricane Irma has overwhelmed some online shippers to suspend operations. Wal-Mart has suspended grocery and in-store pickup for stores in Central Florida. Amazon’s website is reporting there are no available pickup times for it’s one and two-hour Prime Now shipping program. More from the Orlando Sentinel.

Tech company to expand, add 75 jobs in Tampa

Cognizant Technology Solutions, a global provider of business and technology services that already employs more than 950 workers in Tampa, plans to build a new facility and create 75 jobs in the area. More from the Business Observer.

Florida Trend Exclusive
Non-profit Florida Rural Legal Services handles cases 'nobody would take.'

FRLS was founded in 1966 during President Lyndon Johnson’s war on poverty to provide free legal help to Florida’s migrant workers. It has since expanded its services to low-income families and seniors in 13 counties throughout south-central Florida. More from Florida Trend.

Publisher's Column
A Focus on Rural Florida

florida As the Statewide piece in this issue points out, about half of Florida’s 67 counties are considered rural and economically stressed. The Around the State section highlights issues facing businesses and economic leaders in some of these counties.

» Read Andy Corty's full column.

Preparedness
If You're a Florida Business Owner, 5 Things To Do Right Now

florida originalsIf you run a business in Florida, you may have already lived through a hurricane or two, or even three already. You are aware that these storms can end businesses forever . . . or not.

» Read more from Inc..