HOMESTEAD AIR RESERVE BASE, Fla. -- Now is the time to ensure you're prepared for the hurricane and tropical storm season, officials urged.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association predicts for this year's hurricane season, which lasts from June 1 to Nov. 30, a 70 percent likelihood of 13 to 20 named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher), of which 7 to 11 could become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including 3 to 6 major hurricanes (Category 3, 4 or 5; winds of 111 mph or higher).
These ranges are well above the seasonal average of 12 named storms, 6 hurricanes, and 3 major hurricanes.
Hurricanes are categorized using the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Intensity Scale ranging from a Category 1, which consists of wind speeds from 74 to 95 mph, to a Category 5, which has wind speeds above 155 mph.
"All hurricanes, regardless of category, cause significant amounts of damage and should be taken seriously," said Jason Sundin, 482nd Fighter Wing Chief of Emergency Management. "It's important to be prepared before they come knocking."
There are three very important things to know going into hurricane season; where to get appropriate information, how to prepare, and how to recover after the storm.
Be Informed:
Officials recommend consulting the following websites for hurricane and tropical storm information and preparedness:
Be prepared:
For the most up-to-date hurricane and tropical storm information, monitor the National Hurricane Center's website listed above.
Officials say emergency preparedness plans and kits are vital to weathering severe hurricanes and tropical storms. A basic kit should include a three day supply of food and water (1 gallon per person per day), a flashlight and batteries, portable radio and batteries, first aid kit with instructions, moist towelettes and toilet paper, matches in a waterproof container, a whistle, extra clothes, cooking utensils (including a can opener), photocopies of credit card and personal identification, cash, important documents such as birth certificates and insurance information in sealed containers, and any items unique to each individual's situation. For a more in-depth list, visit any of the above referenced sites.
Have the kit put together ahead of time. As a storm draws near, critical items will be harder to come by.
In case an evacuation occurs, be sure to fill up the gas tank within 48 hours of an impending storm.
Create an evacuation plan ahead of time, and make sure everyone involved has the information they need for the plan to be successful. Make sure there is cash in a secure location and it's a good idea to review any insurance plans to know what damages will be covered.
"Create an evacuation plan now," urged Sundin. "Be sure to account for your specific situation such as pets, family members with special needs, children and infants. Make sure you know which shelters can accommodate them."
In order to limit damage when an impending storm is close, be sure to bring in anything from the yard that is not anchored, including coconuts from the trees. If these items aren't secured they will become projectiles during the storm and can increase the amount of damage to anything nearby.
Post storm recovery:
"Statistically speaking, more people get injured post storm because they go out and want to be a hero," said Sundin. "We all want to do the right thing, but there are a lot of dangers present when there's scattered debris, floods, live wires, and broken gas lines."
One last thing to keep in mind is Air Force Accountability and Assessment. This system standardizes the way the Air Force accounts for, assesses, manages, and monitors the recovery process for personnel and their families affected by events such as hurricanes. Make sure AFPAAS has the most current information.
The severe weather conditions that south Florida is famous for are not to be taken lightly. Stay informed of impending storms and prepare emergency plans and kits ahead of time. Refer to the websites outlined above. They will serve as a direct link to a safer hurricane and tropical storm season.