Coming Soon: 2013 Hurricane Season

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The 2013 hurricane season begins tomorrow, June 1, and runs through November 30. It’s time to get ready!
Hurricane Season

The 2012 hurricane season was the second consecutive year that a named storm devastated the mid-Atlantic and Northeast. Both Sandy and Irene (2011) caused fatalities, injuries, and tremendous destruction from coastal storm surge, heavy rainfall, inland flooding, and wind.

Because hurricanes have been more frequent and intense during the last 18 years and are affecting more locations, you should begin now to prepare for hurricane season if you live in coastal areas. Getting ready for potential storms before the season begins can help keep you and your family safe if hurricanes hit your area. Below are highlights of CDC recommendations to prepare for hurricane season:
  • The most important step in preparing for any disaster is to make a plan beforehand.
    • Learn about your community’s emergency plans, warning signals, evacuation routes, and locations of emergency shelters.
    • Identify potential home hazards and know how to secure or protect them.
    • Locate and secure your important papers
    • Prepare to care for older household members or those with disabilities or special needs.
      Damage from Hurricane Sandy (October 2012)
      Damage from Hurricane Sandy (October 2012)
  • Stock your home and your car with emergency supplies.
  • Ensure your pet’s safety before, during, and after an emergency.
  • Use a battery-operated radio (such as a NOAA Weather Radio) and keep extra batteries on hand to keep up with the latest storm information.
  • Be prepared to evacuate if necessary. NEVER ignore an evacuation order.
  • Be prepared for power outages.
    • Access important information on your computer and print it before the storm hits.
    • Know how to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
  • Be prepared for possible injuries and illness
You can receive weekly tips from CDC throughout hurricane season by signing up for CDC Hurricane Public Service Announcements (PSAs) and Podcasts.
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Categories Emergency Preparedness, National Center for Environmental Health, Severe Weather

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Page last reviewed: November 21, 2013
Page last updated: November 21, 2013
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