What You Need To Know
- It is National Hurricane Preparedness Week
- Atlantic hurricane season begins on June 1
- It’s time to review your hurricane preparation plans
How to prepare?
Even if you are not in a storm’s path, there are ways to prepare in advance that will make it easier for you when the time comes. It’s important to know if you live in an evacuation zone, and if so, to develop an evacuation plan for you and your family.
You can assemble a hurricane kit, including items like non-perishable food for your family and pets, water, flashlights, a first aid kit and more. Also, reviewing your insurance plans if you own a home and to sign up for flood insurance if it is a separate plan.
Here is a full breakdown of how to prepare you and your family and what you can do today.
This year’s forecast
Colorado State University released its outlook for the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season in April, and their researchers are forecasting above normal activity this season. It’s the most activity ever forecasted in a preseason outlook since CSU began issuing them in 1995.
This year’s forecast includes several factors, primarily record warm sea surface temperatures in the eastern and central Atlantic. Warm water acts as fuel for tropical systems. Global climate models and forecasters also suggest a transition to La Niña conditions by the peak of Atlantic hurricane season. According to CSU, “La Niña typically increases Atlantic hurricane activity through decreases in vertical wind shear.”
As always, it only takes one storm to make it a bad season. Here is a full breakdown of this year’s Atlantic hurricane season forecast.
Changes to the season
The National Hurricane Center is introducing some fresh changes to the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season you can expect to see.
Two new names are on the list this year after Florence and Michael were retired after the 2018 season. The new names replacing them will be Francine and Milton. Here is what to know about the 2024 Atlantic hurricane names.
Along with the new names, the National Hurricane Center will experiment with some tweaks to the cone of uncertainty this season. Inland tropical watches and warnings will now be shown on an experimental map with the cone to better convey threats.
Here is a full breakdown of the changes you can expect to see this hurricane season.
Learn More About Hurricanes
Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is crucial to be prepared for the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season. Review your hurricane preparation plans, assemble a hurricane kit, and review your insurance plans. Stay informed about the latest forecast and changes to the season. Remember, it only takes one storm to make it a bad season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is National Hurricane Preparedness Week?
A: National Hurricane Preparedness Week is a week-long event that takes place from May 5 to May 11, aiming to raise awareness and encourage people to prepare for the upcoming hurricane season.
Q: When does the Atlantic hurricane season begin?
A: The Atlantic hurricane season begins on June 1 and ends on November 30.
Q: What are the key factors that contribute to a busy hurricane season?
A: Record warm sea surface temperatures in the eastern and central Atlantic, and a transition to La Niña conditions by the peak of Atlantic hurricane season are the primary factors that contribute to a busy hurricane season.
Q: What are the new names on the list for the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season?
A: The new names replacing Florence and Michael are Francine and Milton.
Q: What changes can I expect to see this hurricane season?
A: The National Hurricane Center will experiment with some tweaks to the cone of uncertainty, including showing inland tropical watches and warnings on an experimental map with the cone.
