(Norwalk, Conn.) Today, June 1, 2022, is the official start of hurricane season and the City of Norwalk urges residents to get prepared now. The City announced several ways residents can prepare for unpredictable severe summer weather and potential storm emergencies this hurricane season.
Weather experts caution that tropical storms are developing earlier in the hurricane season and even ahead of June 1. Eight of the past 10 hurricane seasons have begun before June 1, and officials at the National Hurricane Center are discussing whether to move the start of hurricane season up to mid-May in the near future.
Hurricanes wreak havoc along the East Coast—dumping rain, causing power outages and creating high winds and tornadoes that can lead to life-threatening situations and millions of dollars in property damage. Last year’s Hurricane Ida was one of the most devastating and costliest on record. Fifty-five deaths were directly attributed to Ida’s flooding, high winds and tornadoes. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration estimated damages to be $76.5 billion—the fifth-highest following hurricanes Katrina, Harvey, Maria and Sandy.
This year’s hurricane season is expected to be another busy one, with the Weather Channel forecasting 20 tropical storms, eight hurricanes, and four major hurricanes expected to reach at least Category 3. The City of Norwalk urges residents to take time now to ensure that they, their families, and their homes are prepared for hurricane season and unpredictable severe summer weather.
Below are a few actions residents can take to prepare for a potential storm and severe summer weather.
- Residents can be proactive and take steps to protect their homes and property by cutting and removing overhanging trees and branches that pose a threat to buildings. It’s also important to inspect roof conditions and make necessary repairs to prevent and minimize storm damage.
- Residents can review their insurance policies to determine if the proper type and amount of coverage are in place. This includes completing a home inventory and having copies of policies and contact information easily accessible.
- Residents can keep their families safe by establishing a communications plan and having emergency items ready in case of an evacuation. If there are vulnerable family members in their household with access or functional needs, they should consider what additional supplies and resources may be needed ahead of a storm.
- Residents should also be mindful of their furry family members. They should have a plan and supplies ready for pets. While the Norwalk disaster shelter is pet friendly, residents will need to provide copies of vaccination records and bring any medication, carriers and supplies.
- Finally, whether traveling for a vacation or staying close to home, residents should pay attention to local weather conditions to be ready to change plans as needed. They should consider downloading a weather app to get severe weather advisories, watches, and warnings. For example, the American Red Cross- Emergency app will send weather updates and help individuals prepare for a storm.
Original source can be found here.
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