The Radio Station In Florida That Played “The Waiting” Every Time A Hurricane Was Near

April 1, 2025

In a small coastal town in Florida, there was a radio station called WFLA-FM that had a unique tradition whenever a hurricane threatened to make landfall. The announcer, a warm-hearted man named Charlie, would lean into the microphone with a solemn tone and announce, “We’re tracking a storm, folks. But first, let’s turn up the volume for Tom Petty’s ‘The Waiting.’” It had become a ritual, a lifeline in the storm, as the iconic song filled the airwaves, filling listeners with a sense of hope and resilience.

Tom Petty, who grew up just a short drive away in Gainesville, Florida, never intended for one of his songs to become a symbol of endurance during the wild weather. “The Waiting,” about perseverance and patience, resonated deeply with the people of the Sunshine State, especially as they faced the uncertainty of hurricanes. As the powerful guitars and Petty’s heartfelt voice played, it washed over the listeners like a comforting blanket, reminding them to stay calm and keep their spirits high, no matter how fierce the storm outside might be.

One stormy evening in 2017, Hurricane Irma roared toward the coast. The winds howled, and rain lashed against windows, but within homes and shelters, the sound of “The Waiting” united the community. People shared stories of riding out storms together, and families huddled around radios, finding solace in the lyrics. Charlie, the announcer, received countless calls thanking him for keeping spirits lifted during such a terrifying time. He shared how Tom’s music had always inspired him, capturing the essence of resilience—a message that echoed even louder when nature unleashed its fury.

Petty, meanwhile, was inspired by the love and connection his music created. He once said, “Music is a refuge; it’s a weapon against despair.” By the time Hurricane Irma hit, he was already a beloved figure whose songs had touched millions. But his connection to Florida and its people deepened with each storm. He would often hear stories of resilience and survival, and he felt honored that his music could play a small part in helping his fellow Floridians to weather the storms, both literal and metaphorical.

After the dust settled and the storms passed, the town came together to rebuild. “The Waiting” became more than just a song; it was a soundtrack for hope. Tom Petty himself took notice of how his music had become a beacon for people experiencing tough times. He regularly returned to Florida, performing benefit concerts and using his platform to give back to his community. With every show, he reminded his fans to never lose hope, to keep waiting for better days, and to cherish the connections that music could create.

Through hurricanes and hard times, WFLA-FM and Tom Petty shared a bond that was unbreakable. They taught that even in the darkest storms, there was always a light to guide people home. The rhythm of “The Waiting” reminded everyone that patience and perseverance would lead them to calmer shores, and as they listened, they felt stronger, uplifted by the sound of a guitar and the power of a song. Tom Petty’s legacy, intertwined with the spirit of the people, lived on, inspiring generations to face life’s challenges with courage and hope.