The National Hurricane Center was continuing to monitor the hurricane season’s second named storm, Tropical Storm Bret, which was forecast to strengthen into a hurricane this week. Florida remained out of forecast advisories Tuesday morning.
Tropical Storm Bret was producing 40 mph sustained winds as it was more than 1,000 miles east of the southern Windward Islands, moving west at 17 mph, according to the hurricane center.
The storm was forecast to strengthen to a hurricane, with models indicating that it will weaken as it moves into the Caribbean.
People in the Lesser Antilles were advised to monitor the system. “Given the larger than usual uncertainty in the track forecast, it is too early to specify the location and magnitude of where these hazards could occur,” the hurricane center said. “However, everyone in the Lesser Antilles, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands should closely monitor updates to the forecast for Bret and have their hurricane plan in place.”
The six-month hurricane season started on June 1.
Prepare Now
The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, and Florida is one of the most vulnerable states to hurricanes. In fact, Florida has been hit by more hurricanes than any other state in the United States.
The 2023 Atlantic hurricane season is expected to be slightly below average, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
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NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center (CPC) forecasts 10 to 16 named storms, 6 to 10 hurricanes, and 3 to 6 major hurricanes (Category 3, 4, or 5) during the six-month season from June 1 to November 30.
The CPC’s forecast is based on several factors, including sea surface temperatures, wind shear, and atmospheric conditions.
NOAA is urging residents of coastal areas to be prepared for the possibility of a hurricane, even if the season is forecast to be below average. Residents should have a hurricane plan in place and make sure they have a hurricane kit with enough food, water, and other supplies to last for at least three days.
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Here are some tips for preparing for hurricane season in Florida:
- Have a plan. Know what you will do if a hurricane threatens your area. This includes having a plan for where you will go if you need to evacuate, and how you will communicate with your family and friends.
- Have a hurricane kit. Your hurricane kit should include food, water, first-aid supplies, and other essential items. You should also have a way to listen to the radio or television for updates on the hurricane.
- Trim your trees and shrubs. Make sure your trees and shrubs are trimmed back so that they do not fall on your home during a hurricane.
- Secure your outdoor furniture and other objects. Bring outdoor furniture and other objects inside or secure them so that they do not blow away in a hurricane.
- Board up your windows. If you live in an area that is prone to flooding, you may want to board up your windows to protect your home from water damage.
- Get flood insurance. Flood insurance is not required, but it is a good idea to have it if you live in an area that is prone to flooding.
- Stay informed. Listen to the radio or television for updates on the hurricane. You can also get updates online or by following your local emergency management office on social media.
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