Hurricane season will be busy, experts say
Dr. Michael Brennan, director of the National Hurricane Center, said he anticipated a busy hurricane season and urged people to start preparing.
With the Atlantic hurricane season underway, it’s now the perfect time to prepare for a possible storm, federal officials said.
“Take today’s action to prepare you for the worst. Understand the risks from the hurricane and start preparing now,” the National Maritime and Atmospheric Administration said.
The Atlantic Basin, which includes storms that form in the Atlantic, the Caribbean and the American Gulf (formerly known as the Gulf of Mexico), will last from June 1st to November 30th. Historically, 97% of all tropical cyclones in the Atlantic Ocean form between these two dates.
How do you prepare for a hurricane?
To prepare for a crashing storm, the basics are to create emergency plans, secure a home, gather supplies and provide information. You need to know the evacuation routes, have a disaster supply kit and keep up with the latest weather reports.
What do I need for a disaster supply kit?
Your kit requires sufficient fresh food, water and medication to last for each person in your family for at least 3 days (please supply at least 3 days of water if possible). Electricity and water can go out for days or weeks.
You will also need extra cash, a battery-powered radio and a flashlight. You may need a portable crank or a solar-powered USB charger for your mobile phone. Additionally, it is important to remember your specific needs, such as medicines, baby products, and pet products.
How can I know when I’m going to evacuate?
When the order comes from your local government, or if you live in an evacuation zone, you must evacuate. Especially if you live in high tides or flood areas, you should start considering evacuation when a Hurricane Watch is issued in your area.
Evacuation is usually recommended when major hurricanes (Category 3 and later).
What do we need to bring to the shelter?
Bring your disaster supply kit. Also, bring hygiene products, blankets, pillows, medications and identification. It is also suitable to bring snacks, face masks, hand sanitizers, and other personal cleaning items. Important documents are also useful.
What does a hurricane warning mean?
A hurricane warning means that hurricane conditions, including winds of 74 mph or more, are expected within your area within the next 24 hours. This is more urgent than the hurricane watch, which is only pointed out by the possible conditions of a hurricane.
Once the warning is issued, immediate measures must be taken to protect yourself and your property, such as evacuating if ordered by local officials.