June 1 marks the official start of hurricane season. Hurricane season is the time of the year, starting June and lasting through the end of November, where the conditions are ripe to produce hurricane conditions.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmopheric Administration (NOAA), 2021 promises to be another to be another busy year for hurricane activity. NOAA is predicting a likely range of 13 to 20 named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher), of which 6 to 10 could become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including 3 to 5 major hurricanes (category 3, 4, or 5; with winds of 111 mph or higher) is expected.
In our territory of central and western North Carolina, we are fortunate that we are less likely to experience the direct impacts of a hurricane. Regardless, dangerous weather from these storms can still impact our area and it is important to develop a plan to keep your business, home and loved ones safe in the event of a weather emergency.
Below are some tips to help prepare for hurricane or severe weather impacts:
- Make an emergency plan: Severe weather can happen quickly, leaving you with little time to prepare. Develop a plan for your business, home and loved ones so that should the time come to prepare for a storm, everyone knows what they should be doing and how to prepare. Make sure you identify emergency communication plans so that everyone knows how to contact each other in the event of separation or an emergency.
- Make an emergency kit: In the event of severe weather, critical supplies could be in short supply. Each season, ensure you have current emergency supplies, such as a first aid kit, any essential medications, water, food, batteries and flashlights. If you rely on a generator, make sure this is operational prior to a storm and you have plenty of gas on hand to keep it running. Don’t forget to take or make copies of important documents you may need as well.
- Know your evacuation route: No one wants to have to evacuate from their home or community, however sometimes you don’t have a choice. Familiarize yourself with your evacuation route and identify options for shelter and accommodations. Identifying potential accommodations beforehand is helpful, especially if you have pets that will be evacuating with you.
- Protect your home and business: Protect your assets by safely securing or storing vulnerable or loose items from the elements. Develop a contingency plan for your business, and adequately prepare to protect your assets by securing emergency generators, temperature control or air compressors for when it is safe to return.
- Follow guidance from emergency and government officials: Emergency and government officials are charged with making decisions that keeps everyone safe. Obey their instructions and follow their guidance as provided. Do not return to your home or business until they have deemed it safe to do so.
Severe weather can be scary, but having the right plan, products and procedures in place can help you weather the storm. Carolina Cat is here to support you when you need it most. Click here to access our resources for developing a hurricane plan, such as our emergency power generation, temperature control and air compressor checklists, so you can return to business as normal as soon as possible. Contact us today for expert help in developing your hurricane plan.