By Sue-Ann Wayow
THE 2023 Atlantic hurricane season officially began on June 1.
The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is forecasting a range of 12 to 17 total named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher).
Of those, five to nine could become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including one to four major hurricanes (category 3, 4 or 5; with winds of 111 mph or higher).
According to the NOAA, this is a normal hurricane season.
Already, the Caribbean is under its second storm watch in the form of Bret this week that is threatening to become a hurricane.
Earlier this month, tropical storm Arlene formed in the Gulf of Mexico.
In May, the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management (ODPM) launched a social media campaign, issuing tips to help citizens better prepare for any adverse effect of the hurricane season.
These tips include: analysis of personal situation, cleaning of property, having an emergency plan with emergency contact numbers within easy access, having an emergency kit with enough needed supplies for a few days, having a first aid kit and do not forget supplies for pets as well.
Following is a summarised version of the list of tips shared by the ODPM on its Facebook page to date:
- Know your risk
- Be flood ready
- Stay prepared for landslides
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Be wind-ready
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Make an emergency communication plan
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Make a home evacuation plan
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Make a shelter in place plan
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Make a business continuity plan
- Establish your support groups
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Practice and test your emergency plans
- Assemble emergency resources
- Consider your unique needs
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Protect your important documents from the unexpected
- Review your medical supplies
- Assemble your grab and go bag
- Don’t forget your pets
- Save for emergency resources such as generators, sturdy ropes etc.
- Assist the vulnerable to prepare for disasters
- Pre-cut plywood to board up glass windows and doors
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Plan with your neighbours
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Trim overhanging trees
- Know emergency sign language
- Document and insure your property
- Create a grab and go bag
- Clean up
- Conduct a drill at home or in your community.
- Enroll in volunteer programmes
- Write down the contact information for first responders.
