Hurricane season is June 1 to November 30 with most storms occurring in August and September. Experts forecast that this year we can expect about a dozen named hurricanes with a couple of them being strong to severe. But whether we’re expecting hurricane conditions, severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, ice storms, or some other catastrophic disruption to our lives, will you be prepared?
Harvey, Irma, Maria. Top baby names of 2018? Not exactly. They were three major hurricanes that made the 2017 season one of the most memorable on record. Here in North Carolina, residents can’t forget the effects of Fran, Floyd, Matthew, and other storms that left their mark with widespread flooding, wind damage, and misery lasting for months or even years afterwards. Here are some essential things to know before a storm hits.
What’s Coming?
Severe weather outbreaks can happen anytime, but with hurricane season upon us, it’s important to understand what’s headed our way. Fortunately, today’s meteorologists have tools capable of predicting a storm’s severity and path, and to issue advisories before effects are felt in a certain area.
A Tropical Depression has sustained winds of 38 mph or less and is reclassified as a tropical storm when winds are between 39 and 73 mph.
A storm becomes a Category 1 hurricane when sustained winds reach 74 mph.
Category 2 storms have sustained winds of 96 to 110 mph.
Major hurricanes, Category 3-5 storms, are those with sustained wind speeds measurintg between
111 and 157 mph.
Storm Watches are issued 2 days (48 hours) in advance of conditions possibly impacting a specific area.
Storm Warnings indicate that a storm’s effects are expected within 36 hours.
What Are The Hazards?
Whether a tropical depression or a named hurricane, the main threats come from storm surge, flooding, wind, tornadoes, rough waves, and rip currents. Depending on the potential threat and your proximity to the coast, officials may encourage or mandate evacuations.
How Can I Protect My House & Family?
Every family’s needs will be different, but this list gives you some suggestions if you’re not sure where to start.
Clear gutters and downspouts
Cut back tree branches and shrubs that are close to the house
Secure outdoor furniture, garbage containers, loose toys, or flowerpots
Be prepared to cover windows with plywood or other materials
Charge cell phones and replace batteries in weather radios and flashlights
Fill your cars’ gas tanks
Fill bathtubs and large containers with water to use for cleaning and flushing
Turn freezer & refrigerator to coldest settings
Photograph or video record your personal belongings for insurance purposes and make sure insurance policies are current
Prepare an emergency supply kit for your family, including pets
Develop an emergency plan that includes getting access to information, the location of a local shelter, a meeting place outside of your house and/or neighborhood, and a single point-of-contact for family members to call if separated
What Should My Emergency Kit Contain?
Here are some examples of things to store in airtight plastic bags or bins. It never hurts to have emergency items stowed in the house and in the car.
At least a 3-day supply of water (1 gallon of water/person)
At least a 3-day supply of non-perishable food
At least one change of clothes and extra shoes for each family member
A blanket or sleeping bag for each family member
Personal hygiene items
Special care items for infants, elderly, disabled family members
Prescription and non-prescription medications
Flashlights, a portable radio, and extra batteries
Matches
Extra car keys and house keys
A first-aid kit, including whistles to signal for help and
protective dust masks
Extra cash
Important documents, copies of insurance information,
and personal identification
Anti-bacterial wipes or gels, garbage bags, duct tape,
and basic cleaning supplies
Manual can opener, paper products, and plastic utensils
Food, extra water, leashes, and other necessities for pets
Check out these local and national websites to learn more about receiving alerts and notifications and for detailed information about being prepared before a disaster:
readywake.com
readync.org
do1thing.com
www.ready.gov
www.fema.gov
