The Importance of Hurricane Preparedness for Your Community

Is your community ready to face a storm? The 2016 hurricane season kicks off on June 1st and continues until November 30th. According to the National Weather Service, an average of 12 tropical storms form over the Atlantic Ocean each year, with about half developing into hurricanes. In the Central Pacific, about three tropical storms emerge annually, with two often becoming hurricanes. These numbers highlight the risk hurricanes pose to many communities and homeowners.

This year, however, is shaping up to be anything but typical. Here's why it's crucial to prepare for the unique conditions this hurricane season might bring.

What's unique about this hurricane season?

Several factors set the 2016 hurricane season apart. Notably, a phenomenon known as the “Cold Blob” is adding some unpredictability to the mix. This Cold Blob is a mass of colder water located between Newfoundland and Greenland, which has been expanding over recent years, potentially impacting weather patterns.

Should this cold water be swept southward by ocean currents, it may hinder the formation of tropical storms, which could be beneficial. However, if the cold Blob remains in place, AccuWeather suggests that warmer temperatures may result in the most active hurricane season in three years.

Additionally, the shift from an El Niño year to a La Niña year is expected to significantly contribute to unstable weather conditions.

What do these changes mean for your community?

The one certainty this hurricane season is increased unpredictability and volatility. Typically, over a span of two years, around three hurricanes strike the U.S. coastline, with one considered a major hurricane, featuring winds of at least 111 mph. However, a hurricane does not need to be classified as major to inflict severe damage. For example, Hurricane Sandy was not in the most intense category, yet it caused massive destruction. This reality underscores the importance of preparedness for every community vulnerable to hurricanes, including those located further inland.

How can I prepare for a hurricane?

Preparedness is now more crucial than ever. While it's impossible to predict whether your community will experience hurricanes this season, readiness is key. Creating a disaster response plan tailored to your community's specific needs is the most effective preparation strategy. An experienced property management company can develop a plan customized to suit your requirements and those of your residents. Communities must be prepared to manage digital assets, establish escape routes for residents, secure vendor contracts for preparation or cleanup, handle insurance concerns, and much more.

Utilize the following resources for additional educational materials to aid in your preparation:

- [American Red Cross Hurricane Preparedness](http://www.redcross.org/prepare/disaster/hurricane)

- [National Weather Service Hurricane Preparedness](http://www.nws.noaa.gov/com/weatherreadynation/hurricane_preparedness.html)

- [Government of Canada Hurricane Preparedness](http://www.getprepared.gc.ca/cnt/hzd/hrrcns-en.aspx)

The 2016 hurricane season could be one of the most unusual in recent memory. Although we all hope for the best, being prepared can significantly mitigate the impact on your community and residents.

Remember, you don’t have to face hurricane season alone.