By Steve Traiman
The official Atlantic Hurricane Season runs June 1-Nov. 30. The good news is the forecast; the respected Colorado State University hurricane research team predicts a below average season with 13 named storms and six to reach hurricane strength. “This tug of war between the hurricane potential of a robust El Nino and the hurricane potential of a much warmer Atlantic is why the forecast is for a slightly below average in 2023,” said CSU’s Philip Klatzbach.
But it only takes one to change your life. In Movers & Shakers this month, Paradise News asked Bay News 9’s Mike Clay (who launched the station’s hurricane coverage in 1997) and Jeff Berardelli (who joined station WFLA in January 2022 to head the Max Defender 8 team) for some answers to pivotal questions to help you stay safe during a storm. A list of what goes into your emergency kit is also in our Health & Wellness column.
It’s essential to have a plan now and know the best way to stay safe during a disaster like a tornado or hurricane; check out resources on pinellas.gov/make-a-plan. Review the Pinellas County Hurricane Guide pinellas.gov/make-a-plan/hurricane-guide-english.
Ready-Set-Protect
Ready=We are at risk. Set=The threat is real. Protect=The impacts are here.
Evacuation Zone Map It’s important to know your zone and what that means for the impact of storm surge, flooding and wind on you and your home. Have a plan on where you will go and let your family or friends know what that is. Mobile and manufactured homes are vulnerable to strong winds. Power can be lost in high winds, so if a family member or you rely on electricity for life-sustaining medical equipment, register for the special needs program at Pinellas.gov/special-needs. Know what shelter you would go to, and which are pet friendly.
Basic Emergency Supplies Key lists of general items and for homes including important documents, special needs for babies, service animals and pets. It also provides access info to public and special needs shelters.
Barrier Island Return Passes After the hurricane passes, all residents will need a pass to get back home when it’s safe. These are available from your local police station or the sheriff’s office in your town. Get one now.
Feature Editor Steve Traiman is president of Creative Copy by Steve Traiman, offering business writing services. Contact him at traimancreativecopy@gmail.com.