JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Atlantic Hurricane season begins on June 1, and NOAA forecasted an above-normal season.
NOAA predicted the following:
- 30% chance of a near-normal season
- 60% chance of an above-normal season
- 10% chance of a below-normal season.
- 13 to 19 total named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher)
- 6-10 are forecast to become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher)
- 3-5 major hurricanes (category 3, 4 or 5; with winds of 111 mph or higher)
Whether you live along the coast or inland, you will need a hurricane kit in case of an emergency, though it may seem intimidating.
On Friday, Gov. DeSantis held a news conference to emphasize the importance of having a hurricane kit ready and a plan in place in case of an evacuation order.
“Starting this weekend, we encourage all Florida residents and visitors to have a household plan that considers the needs of children, seniors and pets and the family in particular,” DeSantis said.
News4JAX went to a local store on Friday to make a hurricane kit.
Doug Kreie, the store manager, explained some of the things people need before, during and after a storm.
“As you’re shopping, you can check your list by yourself,” Kreie said.
Kreie suggested some essential items that people should consider when preparing their hurricane kit.
“This tubplug, you wouldn’t think it, but you’ve got a bathtub that you can fill a lot of water in, maybe not for drinking or cooking, but at least for being able to flush toilets and rinse off things.
He said flashlights and batteries are very important in any emergency kit.
“Any kind of battery size you might need throughout the process. Lights and lighters. This crank radio recharges itself when your power is out but you can crank it to charge your phone and other things you can do with this one radio that will solve a lot of problems if you don’t have a generator. You can at least still keep communications open,” Kreie said.
Other important items:
- Lantern, charcoal and fluid
- Propane tanks
- Extension chords
- Tarps
Kreie also recommended getting a 5-gallon gas can.
“Everybody tries to remember what we need before the storm, but what about after the storm?” Kreie said. “You’ve got something to trim your branches, you’ve got gloves, shears, garbage bags, just some quick things. All you really have to do is pull the shears out, put a lid on it, and you have your tote.”
RELATED | Gov. DeSantis urges Floridians to prepare ahead of hurricane season
Florida Disaster also has a list to help you get started.
