June 1st marks the start of the Atlantic Hurricane Season, which runs until November 30th. This year is expected to be a very active season, with the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicting eight to 13 hurricanes and 17 to 25 named storms. This is the highest number of storms ever forecasted by NOAA.
Hurricane experts attribute the above-normal season along the Atlantic seaboard to near-record warmth in much of the Atlantic Ocean and a strong chance of La Niña conditions. This year could potentially break the record for activity set in 2020, which saw 30 named storms, the most in observed history. Twelve of those storms made landfall in the U.S., and every mile of the mainland Atlantic coast was under hurricane warnings or watches at some point during that season.
While the forecast is troubling, homeowners can take several steps now, far in advance of any particular storm, to help protect their property. The New Hanover Emergency Services Department suggests that homeowners spend time this summer trimming trees to ensure no loose branches can damage your house and reinforcing windows and walls to withstand high winds and debris.
They also advise reinforcing your garage doors. As the largest entry point, garage doors should be reinforced or replaced with models rated for high wind resistance to prevent structural failure during a storm.
This is also the perfect time to refresh items in your hurricane kit, such as batteries, flashlights, and non-perishable food items, and to update your emergency plans, including where to go if an evacuation is issued.
Other steps homeowners can take today to prepare include scheduling a roof inspection, checking hurricane shutters, and reviewing insurance policies to ensure they cover various types of hurricane damage.
Finally, take photos of your belongings and make a list for your records.
Living on the coast means we have access to miles and miles of gorgeous beaches, but that beauty comes with the price of potential high winds, torrential rains, and storm surges. What you do today could go a long way in keeping your home safe.