John Willoughby
reporter2@greenepublishing.com
In the last five years, portions of Florida were subjected to utter destruction due to the rapid, intense development of storms, including Hurricane Michael, a category five hurricane which lashed the Florida Panhandle in 2018. As hurricane season is now in full force, even before the official season begins, it's important to understand the power of a hurricane, tropical storm and even a tropical depression, and how to prepare for such a potentially-catastrophic event.
The 2020 hurricane season will officially begin on Monday, June 1, lasting until Nov. 30. During which, hurricane experts keep an eye on tropical satellites, searching for potential developments which could turn into something more. However, Tropical Storms Arthur and Bertha have already taken shape – the latter currently blanketing the eastern coast of South Carolina with rain and minimal wind.
The National Weather Service details hazards that can spout from hurricanes, causing life and property threatening situations, such as high winds, dangerous storm surges, strong rip currents and tornadoes. In the case of these disastrous events, the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) offers tips on how to prepare for a hurricane and how to keep yourself and others safe:
Preparing for the storm:
Weather experts have been extremely good about keeping locals informed on when a tropical low is in the Atlantic basin or Caribbean sea. During hurricane season, many tropical lows will form; some will develop into a tropical storm or hurricane and others will dissipate within days.
Having an adequate emergency supply of food, a communication plan and other items to help you survive during a hurricane can be of benefit no matter the hazard, especially if you end up stranded in your home during the natural occurrence. Taking the extra steps to ensure your home is safe in a critical situation is important. Sandbags are usually offered by local organizations or emergency management centers. Additionally, plywood can be bought to help shield windows from damaging winds or flying debris.
During the storm:
If a mandatory evacuation has been issued prior to the arrival of a hurricane, you should leave your home and drive to the safest area possible; locals should consider taking shelter during voluntary evacuations as well. Those who wait for actual confirmation of a hurricane may be trapped by high winds, flooding or traffic, which could prove to be fatal. To find a shelter near you, download the FEMA app at fema.gov/mobile-app.
If you stay in your home or cannot leave, stay far away from windows and move to the lowest level in an interior room. If your home is invaded by flood waters or if there are flood warnings from local authorities, move to the highest ground possible. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911 immediately, however, first responders may not reach you for hours or days after a hurricane strikes, which is why it is extremely imperative to stock up on supplies before the storm strikes.
In the aftermath:
According to FEMA, a significant number of people are injured or killed in the aftermath, in an attempt to begin cleaning up right away or to return home too soon. If you have evacuated, you are encouraged to wait until public officials deem it safe for residents to return. As you return, beware of existing floodwaters or down power lines. Do not wade or drive in floodwaters, which can contain dangerous debris like broken glass, sewage, dead animals and downed power lines. Even a small amount of water on a road may hide dangerous circumstances such as undermined roads ready to collapse.
Additionally, strong winds from a hurricane can threaten the integrity and strength of a building. Do not enter any building until it has been inspected for damage to the electrical system, gas lines, septic system and water lines or wells. Be sure to wear protective gear at all times and NEVER use electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water.
For more resources about hurricane risks or preparedness, visit ready.gov/prepare.