June 1st was the official start of hurricane season in the United States and it was welcomed by no one, especially those in hurricane-prone coastal states on both the East and West coasts of the country. Even though the season has so far seen a drastically reduced amount of hurricanes compared to previous years, the US is just settling in to a season that could be unpredictable and volatile as it progresses over the coming months.
According to Accuweather.com, a leading website authority on all types of weather across the country, the 2014 hurricane season could set a record for producing the fourth-least amount of hurricanes in a 2-year history. This would be due in large part to another El Nino, a weather condition that starts with warmer pools of water in the Pacific that could trigger other water-related weather phenomena, producing both beneficial and disastrous results for various parts of the world. In Australia, El Nino would contribute to droughts and in South American fisheries that could dry up completely, but in the US alone it means a calmer hurricane season and less devastation all around. These conditions are something that is palatable for everyone involved.
This posting would be amiss though if we failed to mention the increase in flooding and tornado activity throughout the country though, so the preparedness tips mentioned here for hurricane are as well suited for other types of disaster, both natural and man-made.
Even though the hurricanes could potentially be smaller, weaker and less damaging you should still be prepared for the eventually that the weather could turn any minute and leave you in an emergency situation. Remember, the number of estimated hurricanes is irrelevant if the one that comes across and hits is the one that affects you! Have an emergency kit handy for use at any time, and make sure it includes essentials for you and your family – canned or non-perishable food, bottles of water, flashlights and batteries, medicines, rain ponchos and the like. If a hurricane damages your home before you can evacuate and safely seek shelter, you might need to survive on your own for a few days before help arrives.
In addition to the personal preparation checklist, make sure you secure your home against as much damage as possible. Keep your trees and bushes trimmed to be more resistant to wind, and clear your gutters on a regular basis so excess water can drain and not bog down the roof. If possible, secure the roof to the frame of the house with clips or straps to reduce structural damage, and reinforce garage doors against potentially damaging winds that can rip right through them to destroy more of the internal structure. Make sure you know where shelters are in your community in case of emergency, and have a plan ready for all family members to meet somewhere secure in the event you are separated during the event.
Civil Logistics is committed to your safety and the rebuilding that may occur after a disastrous event. We have been actively involved in the growth of this business segment and have developed our own internal capability by vetting the best qualified flood adjusters, providing comprehensive training on policy and procedures, and expanding our reach in dealing with both governmental flood programs and private insurance carriers so you get the best experience and knowledge in these particularly sensitive moments.
