By Jim Stefkovich, Meteorologist, Alabama Emergency Management Agency
CLANTON – Sunday, May 6, 2018 – Just in case you thought it was too early to begin preparations for the upcoming hurricane season, which officially starts June 1st, there has already been a disturbance near the Bahamas just last week. Fortunately, no development occurred with this system, but it’s a reminder we have less than a month to prepare for the upcoming season.
In fact, the graphic below indicates that the Gulf of Mexico is a favored region for tropical storm and hurricane development during June and continuing into the fall.
In June 2017, Tropical Storm Cindy made landfall on the TX/LA coast, yet was responsible for producing tornadoes as far north as Birmingham. Other systems over the years also produced widespread and deadly flash flooding across large portions of the state. To learn more about determining your risk, go to: https://www.weather.gov/wrn/2018-detmine-your-risk
Each day this week, a new topic will be presented to help you become better prepared and protect yourself, loved ones and property. The web site for the entire week’s topics can be found here: https://www.weather.gov/wrn/hurricane-preparedness
2018 Hurricane Preparedness Week Daily Themes:
May 6-Know Your Hurricane Risk
Check with local officials to understand your risk.
Search online to find your local emergency management agency to learn more.
Sign up for local alerts or download the FEMA app.
May 7-Know Your Evacuation Zone
Learn your evacuation zone, route, and an alternate location to stay.
Include pets when planning to evacuate.
Practice your plan.
May 8-Assemble Disaster Supplies
Gather needed supplies for at least 10 days.
Don’t forget your specific needs like meds, powered devices, pets etc.
Keep cash in your emergency kit.
May 9-Prepare Financially
Start an emergency savings fund.
Check your insurance coverage to make sure you have enough coverage.
Learn more about flood insurance by visiting: http://www.floodsmart.gov
May 10-Strengthen Your Home
Make sure your home is in good repair and meets local hurricane building codes.
Declutter drains and gutters, trim trees, secure loose outdoor items & secure doors.
Know a safe location to move your car during a hurricane.
May 11-Help Your Neighbors
Get to know your neighbors before an emergency strikes.
Make sure they have a plan before and after a hurricane.
Exchange contact information
May 12-Make an Emergency Plan
Write down your hurricane plan & share it.
Make a plan of how you will get in touch with others before, during, and after.
Take photos of important documents and store them in a secure place.
Finally, a rare opportunity is in store for the people of Alabama on May 10th, as hurricane hunter aircraft, hurricane hunters and various other agencies and organizations will be at the Montgomery Regional Airport.
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