The 2014 hurricane season kicks off tomorrow, and forecasts call for a “near normal or below normal” storm season.
The National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is predicting 8-13 named storms, 3-6 hurricanes and 1-2 “major” hurricanes (Category 3, 4 or 5; winds of 111 mph or higher) for the six-month storm season that runs from June 1 to November 30.
As part of the early hurricane season, residents can stock up on supplies, such as tarps, generators, batteries and flashlights during the tax-free holiday that runs through June 8.
Rick Fisher is the owner of Destin’s Disaster Relief Supply on Commons Drive and he tells The Log that being prepared for a storm is “extremely important.”
“If you plan to be comfortable for a power outage, and this doesn’t have to be a hurricane), a portable backup generator is a must,” he said. “Portable power is much safer than burning candles or using kerosene lanterns.”
Fisher also says that residents should have plenty of food and water on hand, as “FEMA recommends a minimum of three days worth of food and water.” He said Meals Ready to Eat (MREs), dehydrated food, and either stored water or a water filtration system is highly recommended.
“The human body cannot go more than a few days without fresh water before it experiences kidney damage,” Fisher said.
Not only should residents be prepared for a potential hurricane, Fisher told The Log they should also be prepared for flooding, given the recent storms and damage that was caused by flood waters throughout the city.
“Just ask the people who experienced flooding from the storms a few weeks ago; nobody wants to experience this tragedy again,” he said.
As for Destin’s recent luck with hurricanes, the city hasn’t seen a significant storm impact since Hurricane Ivan in 2004 and Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
Residents can also view and download the city of Destin’s annual hurricane information guide at www.cityofdestin.com. The city also urges residents to sign up for emergency alerts, which will notify them of any emergency situation via email or text.
“This comprehensive guide is updated annually and provides important information for citizens regarding what to do before, during and after a storm,” Public Information Manager Doug Rainer told The Log.
ATLANTIC STORM NAMES
Arthur, Bertha, Cristobal, Dolly, Edouard, Fay, Gonzolo, Hanna, Isaias, Josephine, Kyle, Laura, Marco, Nana, Omar, Paulette, Rene, Sally, Teddy, Vicky, and Wilfred