BAY COUNTY — The Atlantic Hurricane Season is upon us and Bay County Emergency Services Deputy Chief Bradley S. Monroe has all the latest on how Panhandle residents can prepare.
Hurricane season lasts from June 1 to Nov. 30.
What does this upcoming hurricane season look like?
“We know that it’s been slightly above average and that could be adjusted during the year as we move into hurricane season in June. It’s not uncommon for (the National Weather Service) to take a second look at things. I’m going to say the Weather Service would take a second look at things and up their predictions (if they need to be). But we think we’re going to be an average or slightly above-average season this upcoming season.”
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With the discussion of climate change and worsening storms, is there potential for Category 5 storms, like Hurricane Michael, this season?
“I think there’s always potential for that. I think we’ve been lucky. We haven’t experienced that. A lot of the smaller serious storms went to the west of us or the states just due west of us, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama and Texas, which Texas and Louisiana have accounted for many over the last few years.
“But it can happen, it depends upon the weather patterns and fronts moving through. I’m not a meteorologist. A perfect scenario sets up, we could have a serious storm. I think Michael has shown us our vulnerability in that aspect.”
What should residents have in their hurricane toolboxes and where can they get these supplies?
“Most of these items can be purchased at the department stores, like Walmart, at the big-box supply stores, like Home Depot and Lowe’s. The flashlights and lanterns usually cost $40 or less. Items costing $50 or less, so tarps and cookers and that sort of stuff Batteries, smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, carbon monoxide detectors and generators are also a good thing to have.
“I think one of the most important things, having those supplies and figuring out what you’re going to do. I recommend you go to the state website, floridadisaster.gov/getaplan, and there’s tips to make a plan for your family or your business. History has shown us that in serious storms, like Michael, 30% to 40% of the businesses never come back. And so, it’s important to have a plan for your business. And it’s even more important to have a plan for your family and your pets.”
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What else should residents know about the upcoming season?
“I think that we should always be on alert when we go into hurricane season and not drop our guard just because this is not a year that’s predicted to be an overwhelmingly bad year. I’m reminded that Hurricane Michael and Hurricane Sally occurred in years when we had a slow year. Storms get in the Gulf of Mexico, it’s totally different. It presents a situation where the storm could affect us all away from the Texas coastline to the Keys. We have to be prepared and pay attention to what’s going on.”
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George is Digismak’s reported cum editor with 13 years of experience in Journalism