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It's June: Hurricane season is here

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  • By Senior Airman Daniel Phelps
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  Hurricane season began June 1 and lasts for about six months. This year, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced conditions in the atmosphere and the ocean favor a near-normal hurricane season.

NOAA's Climate Prediction Center said there's a 70 percent chance of nine to 15 named storms (with top winds of 39 mph or higher), of which four to eight will strengthen to a hurricane (with top winds of 74 mph or higher), and of those one to three will become major hurricanes (with top winds of 111 mph or higher, ranking Category 3, 4 or 5).

Based on the period 1981 to 2010, an average season produces 12 named storms with six hurricanes, including three major hurricanes.

"NOAA's outlook predicts a less active season compared to recent years," said Jane Lubchenco, Ph.D., NOAA Administrator. "But, regardless of the outlook, it's vital for anyone living or vacationing in hurricane-prone locations to be prepared."

According to the National Hurricane Center, there are several steps involved with being prepared. Some of those things include developing a family plan, creating a disaster supply kit, having a place to go, securing your home, and having a plan for your pet.

In developing your family disaster plan, consider the different kinds of hazards that may affect your family. For example, how vulnerable is your home to flooding and winds?

You and your family should be aware of the safest areas in your house and community for each hurricane hazard. Then, determine escape routes from your home and places you and your family will meet.

It is also a good idea to have someone out-of-state as a good point of contact for your family to coordinate with as a place to go.

Another step in preparing for the worst is to place emergency telephone numbers near each phone in your house and to ensure that your children know how and when to call 911.

Many times flood damage is not covered by your homeowners insurance, so checking up on what your insurance covers is a good idea.

Make sure that your disaster supply kit contains non-perishable supplies such as food, water and special items to last for three to seven days. The water supply should contain enough for one gallon per person for each day.

The kit should also contain a first aid kit, medicine, flashlights and batteries, telephones, cash and credit cards, keys, important documents, tools, clothing, blankets, pillows, keys, toiletries, filled vehicle fuels tanks and pet care items.

Before a hurricane is on the way, have a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration weather radio in your house. These can be purchased at general large merchandise stores. It is recommended replacing the batteries in it every six months. There are also cell phone applications to add weather warnings to your phone.

Finally, NHC experts advise taking first aid, CPR and other disaster preparedness classes to have you and your family ready for the worst case scenarios.

(Information taken from the National Hurricane Center website)