Preparation is Key: Safeguarding Your Family During Hurricane Season
The article highlights the rising threats of severe hurricanes as seen with Hurricane Helene, underscoring the urgency for families to prepare for continuing storms this hurricane season. With NOAA forecasting up to 24 named storms and emphasizing the effects of climate change, experts stress the need for proactive safety measures due to the risks of both major and minor storms.
As the aftermath of Hurricane Helene continues to unfold, the death toll rises and extensive damage reports follow. Furthermore, meteorological forecasts indicate that additional powerful storms are developing in the Atlantic, leading to concerns that such severe weather events may become increasingly commonplace rather than rare occurrences. This hurricane season has been notably active, with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) projecting a total of up to 24 named storms, with an estimated seven potentially intensifying into major hurricanes. At present, there have already been eight named storms, underscoring the urgency for individuals and families to prepare adequately for the challenges that lie ahead as the hurricane season progresses until November 30th. The record-breaking Hurricane Beryl emerged as the earliest category five hurricane ever documented in the Atlantic this July, a stark reminder of the potential risks posed by climate change, which is contributing to elevated ocean temperatures across vast expanses from the coast of Africa to the Gulf of Mexico. University of Rhode Island Oceanographer Isaac Ginis cautions that unless carbon dioxide emissions are drastically curtailed, we may face decades, if not centuries, of relentless warming. This climate perturbation is expected to yield more severe hurricanes, leading to a cycle wherein hurricanes can concurrently cool the ocean beneath them, affecting their future strength and wind speed. Ginis further elucidated that while categorically higher storms deserve attention, lower-category hurricanes that move slowly can induce considerable flooding, a risk that should not be underestimated. He stated, “Six inches of water can knock down an adult or two feet of moving water can essentially sweep away a vehicle.” Therefore, it is imperative for families to adopt a proactive approach to safety: preparing in advance of a storm, remaining indoors while the storm rages, and ensuring they have sufficient supplies for the aftermath. In Ginis’s own words, “There’s no reason and justification to die during the storm these days. They just need to heed the warning and listen to the forecasters.” To assist in these preparations, resources such as http://www.ready.gov/ offer valuable insights on safeguarding homes and businesses, while the FEMA app serves as a personalized disaster resource, aiding individuals in effective management of any impending natural disasters.
The article addresses the critical issue of storm preparedness in light of increasingly severe weather patterns attributed to climate change. The current hurricane season is characterized by an unusually high number of storms and significant risks associated with rising ocean temperatures. Experts emphasize the importance of readiness and adherence to safety protocols during hurricanes, underscoring the necessity for families to be proactive in their emergency preparedness.
In conclusion, the alarming rise in severity and frequency of hurricanes necessitates that families take significant measures to prepare for potential storms. With predictions for an active hurricane season and warnings about the dangers posed not just by the fiercest storms, but also by those of lesser categories, it is crucial for individuals to understand the risks and adopt strategies for safety. Utilizing available resources and remaining vigilant can substantially mitigate harm and protect loved ones during storms.
Original Source: www.walb.com
