Local News

Atlantic Hurricane Season Begins June 1

Weather forecasters at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) are predicting a busy hurricane season this year, which runs from June 1 to November 30, 2022.

“For the 2022 hurricane season, NOAA is forecasting a likely range of 14 to 21 named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher), of which 6 to 10 could become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including 3 to 6 major hurricanes (category 3, 4, or 5; with winds of 111 mph or higher). NOAA provides these ranges with 70% confidence,” according to a NOAA press release issued May 24, 2022.

Several climate factors, such as warmer-than-normal temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, the ongoing LaNina, weaker tropical trade winds, and an enhanced west African monsoon, have contributed to the prediction of a busy storm season.

Early preparation is essential for Floridians heading into the summer storm season. Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) encourage Floridians to purchase hurricane-related items from Saturday, May 28 through Friday, June 10, as part of Florida’s Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday.

“Preparing for hurricanes and other natural disasters can be costly, especially with ongoing inflation continuing to impact our nation,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “This year, the Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday has been extended to a full two weeks to ensure Floridians are receiving the maximum amount of savings and have enough time to prepare for hurricane season.”

For hurricane resources and information, please visit www.noaa.gov or www. floridadisaster.org.

It’s that time again!!! SUMMER Is Heating Things Up!