With the twists and “turns” that this hurricane season has challenged us with so far, those of us in Florida and the Southern United States have been fortunate. There have been a few close calls this 2010 season, and for the first time since 1926, we witnessed two category 4 systems in the Atlantic basin at the same time. Hurricane Igor battered Bermuda and may have an effect on the Eastern coastline of Newfoundland, which is predicted to be next in its path.
High pressure systems have diverted disaster from the United States coastline, so far this hurricane season. However, we cannot stress enough the importance for people living near the coastline not to let their guard down. A good motto to live by is to “be prepared.” Hurricane season continues for more than two months, and many late-season hurricanes, such as Wilma in 2005, have caused tremendous damage. This chart shows that we have just passed the height of hurricane season, but it reveals that hurricanes and tropical storms frequently strike late into the season and through the end of October.
Many Floridians are very familiar with this chart and know that the absence of hurricanes making landfall before September is not particularly indicative of the final seasonal outcome. Some of the more memorable hurricanes making landfall during this time frame include: Andrew (August 1992), Charley (August 2004), Donna (September 1960), Frances (September 2004), Jeanne (September 2004), Kate (November 1985), Katrina (August 2005), Ivan (September 2004), and Wilma (October 2005).
Please be aware of these facts during the remainder of this hurricane season and ensure that proper precautions are taken.
Essentials:
- Battery-operated radio
- Flashlights
- Extra batteries
Water:
- 3 gallons/person, minimum, in a food-grade, plastic container
- Additional water for sanitation
Food: Minimum 3-day supply of non-perishable food that requires no refrigeration, or preparation
First Aid Kit: (one for your home and one for each car)
See: http://www.floridaoceanographic.org/hurricane2.html for a more thorough list of essentials and precautions.