The effects of climate change have brought about an increasing number of extreme weather events, with ominous names like bomb cyclones and polar vortexes becoming more common. AccuWeather has dubbed this month “Supercharged September,” a time when storms and hurricanes are expected to ramp up in intensity.
During Supercharged September, the calm Atlantic waters are disrupted by warm air from the Sahara Desert, creating the ideal conditions for hurricanes to form. It’s a crucial time for those living along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts to prepare for potential storms by staying informed through resources like the National Hurricane Center’s storm tracker.
Jeffrey Schlegelmilch, from the National Center for Disaster Preparedness, emphasizes the importance of readiness in the face of unpredictable extreme events. As the climate changes, it’s vital for communities to come together and build resilience against natural disasters.
This year’s hurricane season has already seen record-setting storms like Hurricane Beryl, highlighting the need for proactive preparation. With NOAA predicting an above-average number of storms, it’s crucial for individuals to have evacuation plans, disaster kits, insurance coverage, and home protection measures in place.
NOAA and FEMA provide tools like flood exposure maps and storm surge risk assessments to help homeowners understand their vulnerability to natural disasters. Identifying evacuation zones and preparing for worst-case scenarios is essential, especially for those living in high-risk areas.
As storm and hurricane activity becomes more erratic, prioritizing safety and preparedness is key. Nature’s power is unpredictable, but proper planning and community support can help mitigate the impacts of these formidable weather events.
