Floridians have much to worry about this year. First off, we are dealing with the coronavirus and now is almost the start of hurricane season. Here’s what we know so far about the upcoming Atlantic Hurricane Season….
Colorado State University predicts a very active season with 16 named storms, eight of them being hurricanes, and four of those being major hurricanes. Major hurricanes are defined as Category 3 and higher with wind speeds in excess of 111 mph.
So why is this season more active than previous seasons? There are several factors that influence how active a season we will have, but there are two key factors. We are in an El Niño season meaning our surface water temperatures are warmer than average and we have less wind shear. Both of these conditions are indicators for a more active season.
Now is the time to prepare your household. The Department of Homeland Security recommends the following basic emergency supplies to be included in your kit.
- Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation)
- Food (at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food)
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
- Flashlight
- First aid kit
- Extra batteries
- Whistle (to signal for help)
- Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)
- Plastic sheeting and duct tape for personal sanitation
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
- Wrench or plier to turn off utilities
- Manual can opener for food
- Local maps
- Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
Since the spread of the coronavirus the CDC has updated the list to include these additional items to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus and the flu.
- Cloth face covering (for everyone ages 2 and above), soap, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces
- Prescription medications
- Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives
- Prescription eyeglasses and contact lens solution
- Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and diaper rash cream
- Pet food and extra water for your pet
- Cash or traveler’s checks
- Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container
- Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
- Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes
- Fire extinguisher
- Matches in a waterproof container
- Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
- Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils
- Paper and pencil
- Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children