Hurricane Season: What You Need to Know

1. Hurricane Season Basics

Hurricane season officially begins on June 1st and ends on November 30th each year. However, hurricanes can form outside of these dates, so it's important to be prepared year-round.

Hurricanes are most common in the Atlantic Ocean and the eastern Pacific Ocean. They can also form in the western Pacific Ocean, but they are less common.

Hurricanes are classified into five categories based on their wind speed: tropical depression, tropical storm, Category 1 hurricane, Category 2 hurricane, Category 3 hurricane, Category 4 hurricane, and Category 5 hurricane.

2. Hurricane Safety

There are a number of things you can do to stay safe during hurricane season:

• Have a hurricane plan in place. This plan should include evacuation routes, a place to stay, and a way to communicate with family and friends.
• Stock up on emergency supplies. These supplies should include food, water, first aid kits, and batteries.
• Stay informed about hurricanes. Listen to the radio or television, or check the National Hurricane Center website for the latest updates.

3. Hurricane Preparedness

In addition to having a hurricane plan and stocking up on emergency supplies, there are a number of other things you can do to prepare for hurricane season:

• Secure your home. This includes boarding up windows, securing loose objects, and trimming trees.
• Elevate your belongings. If you live in a flood-prone area, move your belongings to higher ground.
• Have a plan for pets. Make sure you have a safe place to take your pets if you have to evacuate.

4. Hurricane Aftermath

If you experience a hurricane, there are a number of things you should do to stay safe:

• Stay away from downed power lines.
• Be aware of flooding. Do not drive through flooded areas.
• Listen to the radio or television for updates.

Conclusion

Hurricane season can be a dangerous time, but it's important to be prepared. By following these tips, you can help keep yourself and your family safe.