Are you ready for another Florida Hurricane in November? If you live in Florida, you’re no stranger to hurricanes. But what would it be like if another hurricane hit this year? The National Hurricane Center predicts subtropical storm Nicole will be upgraded to a category one hurricane, which is not good news for Floridians. If you live in the state and are concerned about your safety, there are steps you can take to prepare yourself for potential disaster. Read along to stay informed on how OTM Restoration can help you prepare for the worst and stay safe.
A Florida Hurricane in November is Rare but Does Happen
You may have heard about a possible hurricane forming in the Caribbean and that it could hit Florida. It is not unusual. Hurricane season is between June 1 through November 30 each year. The strongest hurricanes usually form between August and October, but they can occur in any month of the season.
Hurricanes classifications are by wind speed—the higher the number on its scale, the stronger a hurricane is likely to be. The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale ranges from Category 1 (74–95 mph winds) to Category 5 (157 mph+ winds)—and some storms recorded 200+ mph winds!
Subtropical Storm Nicole
The Atlantic hurricane season doesn’t officially end until November 30, so there’s still time for one last storm to form in the next few days. This one is called Nicole, which could bring high winds, heavy rain, and flooding to the Southeast coast.
Nicole formed east of the Bahamas Monday morning as a subtropical storm. It will track toward the Bahamas and the Southeast U.S. coast this week.
Nicole could be a strong tropical storm or possibly at hurricane strength when it nears Florida by Wednesday night or Thursday morning. Hurricane warnings are already in effect for parts of Florida, including Miami-Dade County and Monroe County on the west coast near Key West. Storm surge and tropical storm watches are in effect for much of Florida, southern Georgia, and South Carolina.
Strong winds, heavy rain, high surf, rip currents, and coastal flooding are expected along the Southeast coast as Nicole moves closer to land over the next few days.
Keep Your Emergency Plan Current
If you live in an area prone to hurricanes, you should have an emergency plan. It is even more critical during hurricane season (June 1-November 30). Make sure your plan is current. The emergency plan should update every year to stay prepared for the worst.
All family members should know what to do at home during a major storm. Include pets in your plans: if possible, include them on evacuation routes and safe places like friends’ homes where they can stay until the storm passes and danger has passed.
To ensure water remains available during an emergency, fill jugs with tap water and store them away from windows on a high shelf. If flooding occurs during such a time, the force of moving water could cause breakage or damage that would allow bacteria into the containers’ contents. Stay stocked up on various non-perishable foods, a 72-hour supply per person. Everyone gets their required nutrients while enjoying their meals together as much as possible, given the current circumstances.
Another Florida Hurricane in November? How to Prepare for the Worst? Water is the most important item needed after a major storm. Are you ready for subtropical storm Nicole?
What is most important during a Hurricane?
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recommends keeping enough non-perishable food on hand for at least three days and one gallon of water per person daily. You can store it in large containers such as coolers or trash cans with lids. Keep them cool by placing them in the fridge until it’s time to evacuate or transfer it. You can use insulated lunch bags if there’s no space in the refrigerator.
What kind of food should we keep in stock?
Canned goods are excellent since they don’t require refrigeration. However, it may be difficult or impossible to find items like canned fruits and vegetables during a hurricane evacuation. Consider other options, such as dry goods that last longer. Pasta sauce jars work well because they quickly seal when closed tightly.
How much water will I need?
People tend not to drink enough water during hurricanes because they’re worried about dehydration—but if you get dehydrated during an emergency, there’s less chance you’ll survive! So make sure each person has access. FEMA recommends 1 gallon of water per person daily for at least three days. However, it would be best if you filled tubs and buckets with water for cleaning and showering.
Backup Plan for Emergency Supplies
It’s time to start planning for the worst. Have a backup plan for your backup plan and a backup for your backup. You can never be too prepared, especially if you’re in an area that could see massive damage from a hurricane this time of year.
Let’s look at some examples: If you have a generator, make sure that gas isn’t running low on it. If your well runs dry, ensure there’s another source of water nearby or ready to use immediately after the rain stops pouring down on top of everything else.
Research Your Specific Area for Hurricane Preparedness
If you’re in an area prone to hurricanes, it’s essential to know what to do in the event of one. As with other natural disasters, preparation is vital for surviving a hurricane. Forecasters predict when these storms are most likely to occur so that residents can prepare for them—usually by stocking up on food, water, and batteries; boarding up windows; and filling sandbags if necessary. It’s also advisable for people living in areas prone to hurricanes to invest in an emergency kit that contains food rations suitable for their family members’ health needs and first aid supplies such as gloves and gauze pads.
damage to home in Florida.” width=”1080″ height=”1080″> Another Florida Hurricane in November? How to Prepare for the Worst – OTM – On The Map Restoration Offering 24/7 Emergency services. Roof tarping to prevent water damage to home in Florida.
OTM Restoration is Here to Help After the Storm
OTM Restoration provides 24-hour emergency services throughout Florida. We can assist you with any storm damage at your home or business. We can repair your roof damage and property board and provide emergency tarp service if needed due to wind damage. OTM Restoration is ready for you in the case of Nicole!
No matter what happens, we’re here to help. We have a team of restoration specialists ready and waiting to get you back in your home or business as soon as possible. If you have any questions, call us at (305) 671-3226 or contact us here.
