The third named hurricane of the 2023 Atlantic Hurricane Season has formed in the South Atlantic, and while there have not been any threats to Texas yet residents of the Gulf Coast should stay prepared for an active hurricane season.
Hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30 every year, and after three hurricane seasons with La Nina present, NOAA scientists predict a high potential for El Nino to develop this summer. While El Nino’s diminishing influence on storm development usually means lower activity, that could be offset by favorable conditions local to the tropical Atlantic Basin. Those conditions include the potential for an above-normal west African monsoon, which produces African easterly waves and seeds some of the stronger and longer-lived Atlantic storms, and warmer-than-normal sea surface temperatures in the tropical Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea which creates more energy to fuel storm development. These factors are part of the longer-term variability in Atlantic atmospheric and oceanic conditions that are conducive to hurricane development — known as the high-activity era for Atlantic hurricanes — which have been producing more active Atlantic hurricane seasons since 1995.
The official NOAA forecast calls for a "near-normal" number of storms in 2023. "NOAA is forecasting a range of 12 to 17 total named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher). Of those, 5 to 9 could become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including 1 to 4 major hurricanes (category 3, 4 or 5; with winds of 111 mph or higher)." Typical or not, it only takes one storm to do catastrophic damage - especially if it hits the Gulf Coast.
Grand Lakes MUD 4 would like residents to consider making or refreshing their annual hurricane preparedness, and have compiled the below information and tips to review:
Before hurricane season each year, make sure you and your family are prepared by planning ahead.
During and after a hurricane, you may need supplies to keep your family safe and healthy. Remember that a hurricane could cut off your power and water supply. You also may not be able to drive because of damage to your car. Roads may be flooded or blocked.
That’s why it’s best to be prepared—stock up on everything you might need now. Be sure to prepare the following:
A fire extinguisher. Make sure your family knows where to find it and how to use it! Read the National Fire Protection Association’s tips for using fire extinguishers.
Listen for National Weather Service alerts on TV or radio or check for them online. There are two kinds of alerts:
For more information about hurricane watches and warnings, check out the National Weather Service’s Hurricane Center. If you hear that there is a hurricane watch or warning in your area, you can take steps to get ready.
Make sure your car is ready before the storm hits.
If you don’t own a car, consider making plans with friends or family or call authorities to get a ride if you need to evacuate.
Put pets and farm animals in a safe place. Read more about pet safety during an emergency.
Check your carbon monoxide (CO) detector’s battery to prevent CO poisoning
Always listen to authorities regarding whether you should evacuate or stay at home.
If a hurricane is coming, you may hear an order from authorities to evacuate (leave your home). Never ignore an order to evacuate. Even sturdy, well-built houses may not hold up against a hurricane. Staying home to protect your property is not worth risking your health and safety.
You may hear an order to stay at home. If driving conditions are dangerous, staying at home might be safer than leaving.
If you need to evacuate:
If you need to stay home:
The Grand Lakes MUD 4 website will be updated, as needed, with information regarding weather and storm warnings, flood risks, and any possible impacts to facilities or drainage as a result of severe weather. This will ensure that you have the most recent information as it relates specifically to Grand Lakes MUD 4.
Additionally, ensure that you have the most recent information as it relates to your District by signing up for the District’s Resident Alert System, to receive communication through text and email updates.
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