Welcome 2018 Hurricane Season. We haven’t missed you.

Remember last year or are you trying to forget? Hurricane Harvey ravaged southern Texas and left $125 billion in damage. Followed by Hurricane Irma that left behind $50 billion in damage. How can we forget Hurricane Maria as she tore Puerto Rico to pieces and caused $94 billion in damage.

So Miami Beach – Are You Ready For Hurricane Season?

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has predicted a 75-percent likelihood that this year’s storm activity will be at regular or above-normal levels with a 70% likelihood of 10 to 16 storms with winds of at least 39 miles per hour. On the other hand, you don’t have to panic just yet. Some experts believe that storm action will be below last season’s levels. “This year really the forecast, from a numbers standpoint, will be a quieter year than it was last year, in fact a bit lower than normal concerning the overall number of storms,” said Paul Walsh, Director of Weather Strategy at IBM Global Business Services.

Coastal cities such as Miami will always be at risk due to rising sea levels, the growth in waterfront real estate construction and the effects of climate change. In addition to the human tragedy, these extreme weather events destroy economies. The wind creates widespread power outages that can last for months. The storm surges come as the water rises above traditional sea levels; the wind pushes the water onto the shore. Water is heavy and combined with the wind generates enormous amounts of damage to infrastructure and property.  Throw in some extreme rainfall combined with the wind and storm surge, you can see upwards of $100 billion in damage.

Some Helpful Tips For Before the Hurricane

Secure your windows and doors with approved storm shutters

Protect your electronics with surge protectors

Bring inside any outdoor furniture that isn’t tied down

Fuel up your vehicles and generators

Keep extra fuel containers on hand

Make an extra cash withdrawal from the bank

Stock up on bottled water (1 gallon/person per/day for 3 days)

Get rid of you trash before the storm

If you have a boat, secure it properly – double your lines.

Some Helpful Tips For After the Hurricane

Stay Inside until your local government says its safe

Avoid fallen electrical wires

Inspect your home for gas leaks

Photograph any damage to your home or vehicles

Contact your insurance agent

Do not drive or walk through floodwaters

PLEASE NOTE THIS SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED A FULL HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS CHECKLIST.

CONTACT YOUR COUNTY OR LOCAL GOVERNMENT OFFICE FOR AN OFFICIAL HURRICANE READINESS GUIDE.