Weather experts are predicting a record-breaking hurricane season this year. With Hurricane Lee rapidly intensifying and projected to reach Category 4 or 5 by the weekend, it’s crucial to be prepared. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) forecasts an 85% chance of an above-normal hurricane season in the Atlantic basin, expecting up to 25 named storms and as many as 13 hurricanes, including up to 7 major hurricanes.
A Category 1 hurricane brings winds of at least 74 miles per hour, while a Category 5 hurricane can unleash devastating gusts nearing 160 miles per hour. “Weather tracking technology allows people to track hurricanes well in advance of landfall, giving them ample time to prepare their homes and evacuate, if needed,” says Dan Richards, CEO of The Global Rescue Companies. “Nevertheless, every year there are some who stay put because they are unwilling or unable to do otherwise.”
To help residents and travellers prepare for a hurricane and ensure post-storm survival, Global Rescue outlines five essential tips:
- Evacuate if you can. If officials issue an evacuation order, don’t ignore it. Follow instructions from local authorities.
- Know where to get hurricane information. You can receive Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) from the National Weather Service on your mobile phone.
- Pack a small “go bag.” Include a change of clothes, toiletries, extra medications, important personal documents, identifications, and cash in small denominations. Inform friends and family of your plans.
- Know your shelter options. Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes and destinations. If sheltering in place, stay away from windows, close heavy drapes, and take refuge in a small interior room, closet, or hallway.
- Keep your devices charged. Power outages can last for days or longer. Ensure you have multiple backups for charging phones, tablets, or laptops to stay connected to emergency services.
“Severe weather and emergencies can happen at any moment, which is why individuals and communities need to be prepared today,” emphasizes FEMA Deputy Administrator Erik A. Hooks. Already, storms are moving across the country, bringing additional hazards like tornadoes, flooding, and hail.
Storm surge, the leading cause of hurricane-related deaths, occurs when strong winds push ocean water toward the shore. Storm surges can destroy buildings, undermine roads, and erode coastlines. Richards warns, “Even if you’re not located directly on the coast, damage from a storm surge can occur more than 100 miles inland. The results can be catastrophic.”
As hurricane season approaches, staying informed and prepared is vital. Following these tips can help ensure your safety and the safety of those around you.
Written by: Don Power
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