Forecasters are predicting a quieter 2014 hurricane season than usual. The current projections are for 11 named storms, including 5 hurricanes, 2 of which are predicted to attain major hurricane status - Category 3 or stronger. Even with the “quiet” season, we all need to be prepared for the storm.
"The early dynamical model runs suggest another relatively slow season," said Dr. Todd Crawford, chief meteorologist for Weather Services International (WSI), a part of the The Weather Company. "Three independent statistical techniques all suggest 11 named storms this year."
Getting Ready
Long before a storm is even in the area, it’s a great idea to get some of the important prep handled. Reviewing your homeowner’s and flood insurance should be at the top of this list. If you want a professional opinion of your coverage, please contact Dean & Draper. To get helpful information about flood insurance, click here.
Make Plans
The website http://www.ready.gov, offers free downloads of templates and brochures for Emergency Plans both for Families and Businesses. The Family Plan includes a communications plan, building an emergency kit, pet owner information, gathering important papers, protecting your property, evacuation, and so much more. Families may also need to plan for Seniors or family members with disabilities. Templates and brochures for making those plans are on the website as well.
The Business Plan includes information on planning business continuity, a business impact analysis worksheet, continuity resource worksheet, and a template for a business emergency response plan.
Evaluate the Risks
Keeping track of the storm is easier than ever with the amazing technology available to forecasters. The most popular and watched sources include NOAA/National Hurricane Center , The Weather Channel, and local television stations. For evacuation routes and road conditions, check the Texas Department of Public Safety.
Evacuate or StayDespite the risks involved and the advancements made in emergency warnings, some people continue to ignore calls to evacuate and attempt to ride out approaching storms in their own homes. According weather and emergency professionals, it’s never a good idea to “ride the storm out” if you have the means to leave. When officials declare an evacuation for your area, do yourself and your family a favor and leave.
Information on preparing for a hurricane is available from local authorities, booklets prepared by local television stations, and through the Internet – just Google “Hurricane Preparedness” and you’ll get 165,000 hits. Be informed, make a plan, heed the warnings, and stay safe.
Trivia Question: What is the difference between a hurricane, cyclone, and typhoon?
Hurricanes, cyclones, and typhoons are all the same weather phenomenon. We just use different names for these storms in different places. In the Atlantic and Northeast Pacific, the term “hurricane” is used. The same type of disturbance in the Northwest Pacific is called a “typhoon” and “cyclones” occur in the South Pacific and Indian Ocean.
Naming Protocol
Hurricanes names are selected by the World Meteorological Organization. Every six years, the list of names begins again! However, the names of especially destructive hurricanes are usually retired.
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