NOAA: Below-normal Atlantic Hurricane Season is likely this year
N
OAA’s Climate Prediction Center says the 2015 Atlantic hurricane season will likely be below-normal, but that’s no reason to believe coastal areas will have it easy. For the hurricane season, which officially runs from June 1 – Nov. 30, NOAA is predicting a 70 percent likelihood of 6 to 11 named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher), of which 3 to 6 could become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including zero to 2 major hurricanes (Category 3, 4 or 5; winds of 111 mph or higher). While a below-normal season is likely (70 percent), there is also a 20 percent chance of a near-normal season, and a 10 percent chance of an above-normal season. “A below-normal season doesn’t mean we’re off the hook. As we’ve seen before, below-normal seasons can still produce catastrophic impacts to communities,” said NOAA Administrator Kathryn Sullivan, Ph.D., referring to the 1992 season in which only seven named storms formed, yet the first was Andrew – a Category 5 Major Hurricane that devastated South Florida. “The main factor expected to suppress the hurricane season this year is El Niño, which is already affecting wind and pressure patterns, and is forecast to last through the hurricane season,” said Gerry Bell, Ph.D., lead seasonal hurricane fore-
INSIDE
Before a Hurricane | Pg 2
caster with NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center. “El Niño may also intensify as the season progresses, and is expected to have its greatest influence during the peak months of the season. We also expect sea surface temperatures in the tropical Atlantic to be close to normal, whereas warmer waters would have supported storm development.” Included in this year’s outlook is Tropical Storm Ana, but its pre-season development is not an indicator of the overall season strength. Ana’s development was typical of pre-season named storms, which often form along frontal boundaries in association with a trough in the jet stream. This method of formation differs from the named storms during the peak of the season, which originate mainly from low-pressure systems moving westward from Africa, and are independent of frontal boundaries and the jet stream. With the new hurricane season comes a new prototype storm surge watch/warning graphic from NOAA’s National Hurricane Center, intended to highlight areas along the Gulf and Atlantic coasts of the United States that have a significant risk of life-threatening inundation by storm surge from a tropical cyclone. The new graphic will introduce the concept of a watch or warning specific to the storm surge hazard. Storm surge is often the greatest threat to life and property
Car Safety Tips | Pg 2
NOAA’s National Hurricane Center will use a prototype storm surge graphic this season to highlight areas at risk for inundation from storm surge. (Credit: NOAA)
from a tropical cyclone, and it can occur at different times and at different locations from a storm’s hazardous winds. In addition, while most coastal residents can remain in their homes and be safe from a tropical cyclone’s winds, evacuations are often needed to keep people safe from storm surge. Having separate warnings for these two hazards should provide emer-
Build a Kit | Pg 3
gency managers, the media, and the general public better guidance on the hazards they face when tropical cyclones threaten. Also new this season is a higher resolution version (2 km near the storm area) of NOAA’s Hurricane Weather Research and Forecasting model (HWRF), thanks to see NOAA pg. 7
After a Flood | Pg 6
2
HURRICANES 2015 | progresstimes
www.ptrgv.com
Before a Hurricane
T
o prepare for a hurricane, you should build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan. Know your surroundings. Learn the elevation level of your property and whether the land is flood-prone. This will help you know how your property will be affected when storm surge or tidal flooding are forecasted. Identify levees and dams in your area and determine whether they pose a hazard to you. Learn community hurricane evacuation routes and how to find higher ground. Determine where you would go and how you would get there if you needed to evacuate. Make plans to secure your property: Cover all of your home’s windows. Permanent storm shutters offer the best protection for windows. A second option is to board up windows with 5/8” exterior grade or marine plywood, cut to fit and ready to install. Another year-round option would be installation of laminated glass with impact-resistant glazing. Tape does not prevent windows from breaking. Install straps or additional clips to securely fasten your roof to the frame structure. This will reduce roof damage. Be sure trees and shrubs around your home are well trimmed so they are more wind resistant.
Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts. Reinforce your garage doors; if wind enters a garage it can cause dangerous and expensive structural damage. Plan to bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans and anything else that is not tied down. Determine how and where to secure your boat. Install a generator for emergencies. If in a high-rise building, when high winds are present, be prepared to take shelter on a lower floor because wind conditions increase with height, and in a small interior room without windows. When flooding may be occuring, be prepared to take shelter on a floor safely above the flooding and wave effects. Consider building a safe room. Hurricanes cause heavy rains that can cause extensive flood damage in coastal and inland areas. Everyone is at risk and should consider flood insurance protection. Flood insurance is the only way to financially protect your property or business from flood damage. To learn more about your flooding risk and how to protect yourself and your business, visit the Federal Insurance and Mitigation Administration (NFIP) Web site,www.floodsmart.gov or call 1-800-427-2419.
Car Safety Tips Y
ou can avoid many dangerous weather problems by planning ahead. Plan long trips carefully, listening to the radio or television for the latest weather forecasts and road conditions. If bad weather is forecast, drive only if absolutely necessary. Check or have a mechanic check the following items on your car: • Keep your gas tank full - in case evacuation is needed. • Do not drive through a flooded area Six inches of water can cause a vehicle to lose control and possibly stall. A foot of water will float many cars. • Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded - Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car. • If a power line falls on your car you are at risk of electrical shock, stay inside until a trained person removes the wire. • Battery and ignition system - should be in top condition and battery terminals should be clean. • Brakes - check for wear and fluid levels. • Exhaust system - check for leaks and crimped pipes and repair or replace as necessary. Carbon monoxide is deadly and usually gives no warning. • Fuel and air filters - replace and keep water out of the system by using additives
and maintaining a full tank of gas. A full tank will keep the fuel line from freezing. • Lights and flashing hazard lights check for serviceability. • Oil - check for level and weight. Heavier oils congeal more at low temperatures and do not lubricate as well. • Thermostat - ensure it works properly. • Windshield wiper equipment - repair any problems and maintain proper washer fluid level. see CAR SAFETY pg. 7
HURRICANES 2015 | progresstimes
Build a Kit
A
disaster supplies kit is simply a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency. Try to assemble your kit well in advance of an emergency. You may have to evacuate at a moment’s notice and take essentials with you. You will probably not have time to search for the supplies you need or shop for them. You may need to survive on your own after an emergency. This means having your own food, water and other supplies in sufficient quantity to last for at least 72 hours. Local officials and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster but they cannot reach everyone immediately. You could get help in hours or it might take days. Food • Consider the following things when putting together your emergency food supplies: • Store at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food. • Choose foods your family will eat. • Remember any special dietary needs. • Avoid foods that will make you thirsty. • Choose salt-free crackers, whole grain cereals and canned foods with high liquid content.
Following a disaster, there may be power outages that could last for several days. Stock canned foods, dry mixes and other staples that do not require refrigeration, cooking, water or special preparation. Be sure to include a manual can opener and eating utensils
people may need more water. • A medical emergency might require additional water. • If you live in a warm weather climate more water may be necessary. In very hot temperatures, water needs can double. • Keep at least a three-day supply of water per person. Basic emergency supply kit A basic emergency supply kit could also include the following recommended items: • Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both • Flashlight and extra batteries • First aid kit • Whistle to signal for help • Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place • Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation • Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities • Manual can opener for food • Local maps • Cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger
Water You should store at least one gallon of water per person for three days. A normally active person needs about three quarters of a gallon of fluid daily, from water and other beverages. However, individual needs vary, depending on age, health, physical Additional Items to consider condition, activity, diet and climate. adding to an emergency supply kit: • To determine your water needs, take • Prescription medications and glasses the following into account: • Infant formula and diapers • One gallon of water per person per • Pet food and extra water for your pet day, for drinking and sanitation. • Important family documents such as • Children, nursing mothers and sick copies of insurance policies,
3
• Identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container • Cash or traveler’s checks and change • Emergency reference material such as a first aid book or information on www. ready.gov • A sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person. Consider additional bedding if you live in a cold-weather climate. • Complete change of clothing including a long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes. Consider additional clothing if you live in a cold-weather climate. • Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper – When diluted nine parts water to one part bleach, bleach can be used as a disinfectant. Or in an emergency, you can use it to treat water by using 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented, color safe or bleaches with added cleaners. • Fire Extinguisher • Matches in a waterproof container • Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items • Mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels • Paper and pencil • Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children Additionally, basic services such as electricity, gas, water, sewage treatment and telephones may be cut off for days or even a week, or longer. Your supplies kit should contain items to help you manage during these outages.
We’ve Got Your Power For Any Need, At Every Budget
Generators to keep you going with the power you need from 1000 Watt to 6500 Watt and greater
Chainsaws for any job large or small with 12 to 36 inch bar lengths
W Weaks
W
www.ptrgv.com
Martin IMPLEMENT COMPANY, INC.
Business 83 at Shary Rd., Mission • 956.585.1618
4
HURRICANES 2015 | progresstimes
www.ptrgv.com
www.ptrgv.com
HURRICANES 2015 | progresstimes
5
2015 Atlantic Names Ana Bill Claudette Danny Erika Fred Grace Henri Ida Joaquin Kate
Larry Mindy Nicholas Odette Peter Rose Sam Teresa Victor Wanda
www.ptrgv.com
After a Flood
our home has been flooded. Although floodwaters may be down in some areas, many dangers still exist. Here are some things to remember in the days ahead: • Use local alerts and warning systems to get information and expert informed advice as soon as available. • Avoid moving water. • Stay away from damaged areas unless your assistance has been specifically requested by police, fire, or relief organization. • Emergency workers will be assisting people in flooded areas. You can help them by staying off the roads and out of the way. • Play it safe. Additional flooding or flash floods can occur. Listen for local warnings and information. If your car stalls in rapidly rising waters, get out immediately and climb to higher ground. • Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe. • Roads may still be closed because they have been damaged or are covered by water. Barricades have been placed for your protection. If you come upon a barricade or a flooded road, go another way. • If you must walk or drive in areas that have been flooded. • Stay on firm ground. Moving water only 6 inches deep can sweep you off your
feet. Standing water may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines. • Flooding may have caused familiar places to change. Floodwaters often erode roads and walkways. Flood debris may hide animals and broken bottles, and it’s also slippery. Avoid walking or driving through it. • Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded. Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car. • Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by floodwaters. • Use extreme caution when entering buildings; there may be hidden damage, particularly in foundations. Staying healthy A flood can cause physical hazards and emotional stress. You need to look after yourself and your family as you focus on cleanup and repair. • Avoid floodwaters; water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline or raw sewage. • Service damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits and leaching systems as soon as possible. Damaged sewer systems are serious health hazards. • Listen for news reports to learn whether the community’s water supply is safe to drink • Clean and disinfect everything that
got wet. Mud left from floodwaters can contain sewage and chemicals. • Rest often and eat well. • Keep a manageable schedule. Make a list and do jobs one at a time. • Discuss your concerns with others and seek help. Contact Red Cross for information on emotional support available in your area. Cleaning up and repairing your home • Turn off the electricity at the main breaker or fuse box, even if the power is off in your community. That way, you can decide when your home is dry enough to turn it back on. • Get a copy of the book “Repairing Your Flooded Home,” which is available free from the American Red Cross or your state or local emergency manager. It will tell you: - How to enter your home safely. - How to protect your home and be-
longings from further damage. - How to record damage to support insurance claims and requests for assistance. - How to check for gas or water leaks and how to have service restored. - How to clean up appliances, furniture, floors and other belongs. • The Red Cross can provide you with a cleanup kit: mop, broom, bucket, and cleaning supplies. • Contact your insurance agent to discuss claims. • Listen to your radio for information on assistance that may be provided by the state or federal government or other organizations. • If you hire cleanup or repair contractors, check references and be sure they are qualified to do the job. Be wary of people who drive through neighborhoods offering help in cleaning up or repairing your home.
Hurricane Season Is Here
Are you Ready?
IS!
1:Make sure your Generator, Chain Saw and Water Pump will run before your need them. If your fuel is older than 30 days, its best to get fresh fuel for hurricane season, and treat it with B3C Solutions Ethanol Shield. Come in and ask us about this revolutionary fuel treatment. 2: Take a look around your home and look for potential hazards. Trim trees before a hurricane to reduce potential branches from breaking off and damaging your home and vehicles. Repairing a fence that is weak or missing some boards can prevent the damage from wind blown debris during a hurricane. 3: Be prepared: Have your Generator, Water Pump, or Chain Saw serviced by MAE Power Equipment. MAE Power can get you ready for the 2015 Hurricane Season. If you are looking to purchase a generator, chain saw or water pump, come in and ask the professionals at MAE power Equipment. Lawn Mowers • Trimmers • Chain Saws • Water Pumps • Generators • Compressors Mon-Fri • 8am-5:30pm Sat • 8am-1pm
SALES • SERVICE • PARTS
581-7433 951 W. Bus. 83 • Mission, TX 78572
“We Sell The Best and Service The Rest”
Bus. 83
Los Ebanos
Y
HURRICANES 2015 | progresstimes
Holland Ave.
6
HURRICANES 2015 | progresstimes
www.ptrgv.com NOAA
From pg. 1 the upgrades to operational computing. A new 40-member HWRF ensemble-based data assimilation system will also be implemented to make better use of aircraft reconnaissance-based Tail Doppler Radar data for improved intensity forecasts. Retrospective testing of 2015 HWRF upgrades demonstrated a five percent improvement in the intensity forecasts compared to last year. To help those living in hurricane-prone areas prepare, NOAA offers hurricane preparedness tips, along with video and audio public service announcements at www. hurricanes.gov/prepare. “It only takes one hurricane or tropical storm making landfall in your community to significantly disrupt your life,” said FEMA Deputy Administrator Joseph Nimmich. “Everyone should take action now to prepare themselves and their families for hurricanes and powerful storms. Develop a family communications plan, build an emergency supply kit for your home, and take time to learn evacuation routes for your area. Knowing what to do ahead of time can literally save your life and help you bounce back stronger and faster should disaster strike in your area.” NOAA will issue an updated outlook for the Atlantic hurricane season in early August, just prior to the historical peak of the season.
NOAA also issued its outlook for the Eastern Pacific and Central Pacific basins. For the Eastern Pacific hurricane basin, NOAA’s 2015 outlook is for a 70 percent chance of an above-normal hurricane season. That outlook calls for a 70 percent probability of 15-22 named storms, of which 7-12 are expected to become hurricanes, including 5-8 major hurricanes. For the Central Pacific hurricane basin, NOAA’s outlook is for a 70 percent chance of an above-normal season with 5-8 tropical cyclones likely. NOAA’s mission is to understand and predict changes in the Earth’s environment, from the depths of the ocean to the surface of the sun, and to conserve and manage our coastal and marine resources. Join us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and our other social media channels.
CAR SAFETY
From pg. 2 If there is an explosion or other factor that makes it difficult to control the vehicle, pull over, stop the car and set the parking brake. If the emergency could impact the physical stability of the roadway, avoid overpasses, bridges, power lines, signs and other hazards.
Let Us Make Sure Your Vehicle Is Ready In Case Of An Evacuation!
COUPON
10 Off
$
COUPON
a/C OR BRakE $ SERvICE
w/coupon Exp. 10-31-15
3 Off
COUPON
OIl CHaNgE WITH
FREE
15-POINT INSPECTION
w/coupon Exp. 10-31-15
Bring your TLC Pharmacy Bottle and Receive
5 Off
$
aNy SERvICE
w/coupon Exp. 10-31-15
7
8
HURRICANES 2015 | progresstimes
www.ptrgv.com