By Paul Waldmiller
Did you know that Colorado State University is forecasting an “above average” number of hurricanes for 2020?
As if the Wuhan (Covid-19) Virus wasn’t enough of a stressor on our country’s resources and American lives, apparently, the upcoming hurricane season (which officially begins this coming June) will be a very busy one. Colorado State University released their forecast giving indication that there will be “16 named tropical systems; 12 is the average. Eight of those named systems are forecast to reach hurricane status with winds greater than 74 mph; six is the usual amount per year. Coronado State University is also forecasting more major hurricanes than is typical per year: four as opposed the average of 2.7.”
It is vitally important that all Floridians take immediate steps to prepare for every hurricane season and 2020 looks like there is need to possibly prepare a little more than usual. Here are some tips to prepare for the up-coming hurricane season:
1) Have access to media coverage so you can monitor hurricane weather heading your way. Having a small hand-held, portable radio as well as a battery-operated radio may very well come in handy.
2) Know your Evacuation routes! When you are asked to evacuate your area, know your routes and be prepared to leave in a moment’s notice!
3) Have a disaster kit available. Some items to place in your kit are, medical supplies, flashlights, extra batteries, non-perishable food and water.
4) Have an electricity generator available. You may be without power for days or even several weeks. Have a generator available and access to gasoline which may mean you purchasing gasoline containers now.
5) Have extra and dry, clean clothes with you. Rain gear including boots, rain jackets and hats should be put in your home or with you when you evacuate.
6) Have some cash available. If power is out chances are if a food store is open, they may not have access to the internet and will not be able to process credit card purchases. Have some cash available for such an emergency.