Atlantic Hurricane Season Underway: Essential Hurricane Preparedness Tips
June 1 marks the start of Atlantic Hurricane Season, which means it’s crucial for individuals and communities to be proactive in preparing for potential storms.
NOAA National Weather Service forecasters predict above-normal hurricane activity in the Atlantic basin this year. NOAA’s outlook for the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, which spans from June 1 to November 30, predicts an 85% chance of an above-normal season, a 10% chance of a near-normal season and a 5% chance of a below-normal season.
While we can’t control the weather, we can take steps to protect ourselves, our families, and our property. To assist residents in safeguarding against the potential impact of hurricanes, we have compiled essential preparedness tips:
1. Create an Emergency Kit: Assemble a kit with essential supplies including non-perishable food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, and important documents. Ensure that your kit is easily accessible and kept in a waterproof container.
2. Develop a Family Communication Plan: Establish a communication plan with your family members in case of separation during an emergency. Designate a meeting place and ensure everyone knows how to reach each other.
3. Stay Informed: Keep informed about the latest weather updates and emergency notifications. Follow local news and weather channels and sign up for emergency alerts through your community’s notification system.
4. Secure Your Property: Trim trees and remove dead branches to minimize the risk of damage from high winds. Reinforce windows and doors and consider installing storm shutters or boarding up windows if a hurricane is approaching.
5. Prepare Your Home: Bring outdoor furniture, decorations, and other items indoors or secure them to prevent them from becoming projectiles in high winds. Anchor or elevate appliances and utilities in flood-prone areas.
6. Evacuation Planning: Know your evacuation routes and have a plan in place in case evacuation orders are issued. Have a destination in mind, whether it’s a shelter, hotel, or the home of a friend or family member outside the affected area.
7. Protect Important Documents: Make digital copies of important documents such as insurance policies, identification, and medical records. Store these copies in a secure, waterproof location or upload them to a secure cloud storage service.
8. Review Insurance Coverage: Review your insurance policies to ensure you have adequate coverage for your home and belongings. Consider adding flood insurance, as standard homeowners’ insurance typically does not cover flood damage.
9. Secure Valuables: Safeguard valuable items such as jewelry, electronics, and important documents by storing them in a waterproof and secure location.
10. Plan for Pets: Make arrangements for your pets in case of evacuation. Ensure they have identification tags and are up to date on vaccinations. Pack food, water, medications, and any necessary supplies for your pets in your emergency kit.
By taking these proactive measures, individuals and communities can better prepare for the potential impact of hurricanes and minimize risks to life and property. Remember, preparedness is key to staying safe during hurricane season.
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TNMP is a transmission and distribution service provider that delivers power to more than 270,000 homes and businesses on behalf of retail electric providers in Texas. More information is available at tnmp.com/about-us.
Media Contact:
Sara Yingling