On May 16-20, WPTV News Channel 5 Chief Meteorologist Steve Weagle was back on the open road for his annual Ride for the Red Cross after riding virtually for the past two years. This year's ride rallied support from the community to raise funds that support the disaster response and relief efforts of the South Florida Region of the Red Cross.

Steve's Ride for the Red Cross is more important than ever. We continue to see more devastating storms impact the United States, with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicting an unusually active 2022 hurricane season. The South Florida Region of the Red Cross asks every resident to be ready and prepared for this upcoming hurricane season. 

This year, Steve's ride raised nearly $50,000 and was broadcasted live on WPTV throughout the week as Steve celebrated his 24 years of riding for the Red Cross.

A special thank you to all the sponsors who supported Steve's ride: Office Depot, ADT, Pearlson Foundation, Marine Associates of Palm Beach County, Dale Sorensen Real Estate Inc., Bayview Construction, NCCI, Bayshore Mortgage, and all other contributing sponsors and donors for their incredible support.

On the final day of Steve's Ride, the bike was auctioned off, and we are thankful to Laura Couillard for securing the winning bid at $2,500.

Every year, Steve usually makes his way from Sebastian to Boca Raton to mark the beginning of hurricane season, educate residents on hurricane preparedness and raise critical funds to support the lifesaving mission of the Red Cross.

With Steve back on the road this year, the support from local residents poured in. We are incredibly grateful to have the dedication and support of WPTV, Steve Weagle, and the community.

Ahead of the hurricane season, you can find preparedness information, safety tips, and additional emergency-related resources for you and your loved ones at redcross.org/hurricane.