MIAMI.- The 2024 hurricane season promises to be one of the most active in the Atlantic Ocean in recent history. So people, mainly in coastal states like Florida, must prepare to face the threat of cyclones, tropical storms, tornadoes and natural disasters.
The cyclonic season begins on June 1 and generally extends until November 30, with strong peaks in August and September.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicted that 17 to 25 named storms could occur this year.
According to the team of meteorologists, between eight and thirteen of the storms will become hurricanes and between four and seven could reach major hurricane status, Category 3 or higher, with sustained winds of 111 miles per hour or more.
For its part, Colorado State University (CSU) had already warned that there would be 23 named storms starting June 1.
During the coming summer and fall months, the combination of the La Niña phenomenon and rising sea temperatures in the Atlantic is expected to result in a significantly stronger than normal hurricane season.
What will hurricane season be like in Florida?
CSU statistics indicate that the Sunshine State has a 96% chance of a named storm, the highest in the country. In addition, it has a 75% chance of being affected by a hurricane and a 44% chance of this phenomenon being larger.
Faced with this imminent risk, Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava reminded residents of some key recommendations to be prepared for this hurricane season.
Mainly, the councilor advises being informed about weather reports, following the instructions of local authorities and having an evacuation plan in case of a storm or tornado. He stressed that it is important to know escape routes, stay informed about available shelters in flood-prone areas.
It also recommends “having reserves of hygiene and food items that can be kept for at least 72 hours, pruning trees and taking advantage of the tax-free season to buy what you need.”
For its part, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests people have emergency numbers and immediate family numbers on hand.
State and local authorities are stepping up preparedness efforts, offering some important guidance to ensure the safety of residents and minimize risks during a weather event.
These include creating an Emergency Supply Kit containing drinking water, non-perishable food, gadgets such as flashlights and batteries, and important personal documents.
Likewise, it is important to develop a family plan to reunite in case you cannot return home, secure windows and doors to protect the home and avoid damage in the event of any disaster, keep gasoline tanks full and evacuate the danger zone in an orderly and safe manner. secure if necessary.
Tax free season
Among other measures, like last year, Florida authorities announced two periods for the purchase of hurricane supplies free of sales tax, which represents considerable savings on bills.
The first tax holidays begin on Saturday the first and end on Friday, June 14. The second ones begin at the busiest time of the season, from August 24 and end on September 6.
During these tax relief periods, Floridians will be able to purchase emergency hurricane supplies such as pet food and supplies, batteries, flashlights, detergents and other necessary items.
They will also be able to purchase electricity generators, fire extinguishers, coolers, portable radios, roof tarps, among other items.
@Lydr05
Source: With information from El Tiempo, La Nación and Telemundo51
