How to prepare for this year’s hurricane season

River Jean-Noel | Contributing Writer

Atlantic coast residents: prepare to be slammed by hurricanes this year. 

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA, there’s an 85% chance that the Atlantic ocean will experience an “above normal” hurricane season. 

Each year, hurricane season lasts from June 1 to November 30. During these five months, meteorologists and forecasters keep a watchful eye on ocean temperatures, currents and atmospheric pressures to keep on top of developing storms over the ocean. 

As for why this year is expected to be particularly active, officials believe it has to do with the ocean’s rising temperatures. “The warmer ocean means it’s a more energetic ocean”, said NOAA Administrator Rick Spinrad. 

Here’s what you can do to stay safe during hurricane season. 

• Stay up to date on weather reports and developments: The worst thing you can do is be completely blindsided by a coming storm. Keeping track of the predictions will make sure you have enough time to begin making preparations.
• Start purchasing essentials early: While there’s no guarantee that a storm will hit your area, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Even if you buy items little by little, start collecting supplies like cases of water, flashlights, batteries, and first aid kits. No one likes to have to settle for the slim pickings once the panic buying starts. 
• Don’t forget to plan for the worst– create an evac plan: It’s scary to think of the worst possible scenario, but sometimes it’s necessary to keep everyone safe. In the case of extreme flooding, and extremely destructive winds, your zone may be placed under an evacuation order. Follow recommended guidelines and make plans if you need to evacuate. 

Experts predict that there will be anywhere between 17 and 25 named storms formed over the Atlantic Ocean this year. 

One of the best resources to stay on top of storm formation is the National Hurricane Center website. The site features maps of the Central and Eastern Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. It informs site visitors if there are any storms predicted over the next 48 hours. 

For more tips on disaster and hurricane preparedness, visit official sites like the American Red Cross, Ready.gov, and Florida Disaster.org.