Weather Service predicting busy hurricane season with 13-19 predicted storms transitioning into 6-10 hurricanes

NOAA pilots keep an eye on Hurricane Harvey in 2017 from the flight deck of a WP-3D Hurricane Hunter aircraft. (Courtesy NOAA).

Brookhaven, GA, June 11, 2020 -- The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) a division of the National Weather Service, is predicting an “above normal” Atlantic hurricane season this year. The hurricane season lasts from June 1 through November 30.

According to the NOAA Climate Prediction Center, 13-19 named storms with winds of 39 mph or higher are likely. Of these, six to 10 could become actual hurricanes with winds of 74 mph or higher.  An average hurricane season produces 12 named storms, of which six become hurricanes, including three major hurricanes.

“While Atlanta usually escapes the full force of hurricanes striking coastlines, we are often the recipient of related storm danger such as severe weather, high winds, flooding and even tornadoes,” says Paul White, Brookhaven’s Emergency Management Coordinator. “With the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, residents may need to adjust any preparedness actions based on the latest health and safety guidelines from the CDC and local officials.”

White stressed that social distancing and other CDC guidance may impact disaster preparedness plans including what to pack into go kits, in planning evacuation routes, shelters and additional factors. Keep COVID-19 in mind when revising or making such plans. Here are some additional tips:

1. Prepare a Disaster Plan that includes: response actions like communication procedures, evacuation and sheltering, and structural/utility protection procedures.

2. Build a “Ready Kit” that should minimally contain: a 72-hour food and water supply, first aid

items, extra clothing/blankets, important documents and eating utensils.

3. Be and stay informed by having a battery-powered or even a NOAA weather alert radio in your kit for warnings and updates, have cell phones or other personal devises set for automatic alerts.  

4. Insurance policies: know where they are and review for coverages adequacy. Remember a separate policy is normally needed for flooding coverage.

5. Plan for your pets; most local shelters do not permit them.

For additional Brookhaven emergency management information, go to: http://ow.ly/SPoV30qOvux

For additional NOAA hurricane center information, go to: http://ow.ly/2HWI30qOtWz

 

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