“Time to Prepare, Hurricane Season is Upon Us” 

Forecasters are already predicting possible “La Nina”(an atmospheric effect on weather) movement in the Atlantic which usually indicates a greater chance for developing  Hurricanes. 

Although June 1st marks the start of the annual hurricane season the city continues to prepare throughout the year with training exercises, public education, and plan updates.  Hurricane season runs from June 1st to November 30th we all need to be prepared.  Last year made us all realize how important it is to prepare with four storms hitting Florida in a very short period of time.  Just like the plan the city has in place, you need to have a plan for your family, and check list for different aspects of the threat. Here are a few facts and a check list to assist you in preparing: 

Shelters

If you live in Lauderhill you are not in a designated mandatory evacuation zone.  The Red Cross has designated shelters throughout Broward County; our closest designated shelter would be Piper High School.  If you have special needs the Red Cross has designated shelters for special needs if you qualify and you need to make arrangements early by contacting the Red Cross for instructions prior to a threat.  Prior to a storms arrival, radio and television will have shelter information to help you determine if you need to go to a shelter.

Hurricane Terminology (According to the National Hurricane Center and NOAA)

Tropical Wave: clouds and thunderstorms in line but not yet organized, tropical in nature.

Tropical Depression: organized system of clouds and thunders storms with a defined surface circulation and maximum sustained winds mph.

Tropical Storm:  same as a depression except the maximum sustained winds are a 39-73 mph.

Hurricane Watch:  indicates the possibility that you could experience hurricane conditions within 36 hours. 

Hurricane Warning: indicates sustained winds of at least 74 mph are expected within 24 hours or less.

Hurricane:  intense tropical weather system of strong thunders with a well-defined surface circulation and maximum sustained winds 74 mph or higher.

         Hurricane Strengths: (According to the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale)

·        Category 1 wind speeds of 74 mph to 95

·        Category 2 – 96-110 mph

·        Category 3 – 111-130 mph

·        Category 4 – 131-155 mph

·        Category 5 – 156 mph +    

Disaster Supply Kit (National Hurricane Center Recommendations)

• Water – at least 1 gallon daily per person for 3 to 7 days

• Food – at least enough for 3 to 7 days

• Non-perishable packaged or canned food / juices

• Blanket / Pillows, etc.

• Clothing – seasonal / rain gear / sturdy shoes

• First Aid Kit / Medicines / Moisture wipes

• Radio – Battery operated and N.O.S.S. weather radio

• Cash – Banks and ATM’s may not be open or available for extended periods

• Tools – keep a set with you during the storm

• Toys, Books and Games

• Vehicle fuel tanks filled

• Flashlight / Batteries

• Pet care items – proper identification / immunization records / medication

• Important documents – in a waterproof container – insurance, records, bank account numbers Social Security card, etc.

• Foods for infants or the elderly

• Snack foods

• Non-electric can opener

• Cooking tools/ fuel

• Paper plates / plastic utensils

It has been predicted by the experts that this year’s hurricane season will be more active then last years when atmospheric conditions did support strengthen Hurricanes and we must take this time to prepare.  Don’t wait till the last minute.  When a storm approaches watch or listen to your local media for the latest information about the storm and preparations.