Hello June; Hello Hurricane Season

June marks the beginning of hurricane season here in Central Florida. And while we hope that the predictions turn out to be wrong, above-normal Atlantic temperatures indicate we’re in for a busy season.

Now is the time to get ready.

"For the 2022 hurricane season, NOAA is forecasting a likely range of 14 to 21 named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher), of which 6 to 10 could become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including 3 to 6 major hurricanes (category 3, 4 or 5; with winds of 111 mph or higher). NOAA provides these ranges with a 70% confidence.”

So what is there to do now to prepare?

PREPARING YOUR FAMILY FOR HURRICANE SEASON

• Water: Before a named storm is approaching, be sure to have a few packs of plastic water bottles. If a storm is heading toward Central Florida, we also suggest pre-filling tons of pitchers, reusable water cups, beverage dispensers, etc. with filtered water from your fridge. That way, it creates zero plastic waste, and, if you don’t end up needing the extra water, you can use it to water plants.
• Fridge/Freezer: The days leading up to a hurricane’s landfall, try to plan your meals with some of the perishables already in your fridge and freezer. That way, if you lose power, you won’t lose as much of the expensive food you’ve stored. Also, a great tip is to freeze extra water bottles and bags of water. That way, if the power does go out, these frozen water bottles and water bags will serve as ice to keep your food from rotting as quickly.
• Non-Perishable Food Items: Make sure to have extra canned and boxed items in case the power goes out. We like to have extra protein bars on hand to supplement nutrition. Think of things, like cans of black beans, that offer nutrition and can be heated on a gas grill.
• Battery-Powered Fans: Jump on Amazon right now and order a few battery-powered fans. If the power and air conditioning go out, these fans will be your best friends—especially to sleep at night.
• Propane Grills: Get extra propane! If the power goes out, you can heat cans of beans, grill burgers and keep eating relatively normal. We have even boiled water on the grill to make boxed macaroni and cheese for kids.
• Electric Tea Lights: Instead of hot candles, opt for the little electric tea lights that you can place all around the house. You can get 100 for about $25 on Amazon. They’re safe for pets and kids, create zero extra heat if the A/C goes out and you can use them after the hurricane for decoration.

PREPARING YOUR HOME BEFORE HURRICANE SEASON

• Check to see if your county or city is offering sandbags. Our home of Winter Park allows each resident to fill 10 sandbags.
• Protect your windows and doors with plywood or storm shutters.
• Secure any outdoor furniture or objects that could become airborne during the storm. This could include putting plastic, outdoor chairs in your swimming pool.

WHAT TO DO IF A HURRICANE WARNING OR WATCH IS ISSUED

• Leave low lying areas.
• Have a full tank of gas for your vehicles.
• Have several days of supplies for each family member and pet.
• If an evacuation order is issued, leave immediately and follow your evacuation routes.

DURING A HURRICANE

• Stay away from windows.
• Monitor Weather and Civil Service Bulletins on either regular or NOAA radio.
• Have supplies on hand.
• Remain indoors when the eye moves over your area because the storm will resume shortly.

AFTER A HURRICANE

• Make sure the storm has completely passed before going outside to inspect your property.
• Be on the lookout for wildlife that may have been displaced by the storm.
• Report downed power lines, and stay away from them.

• • OUC
    • Orlando & Orange County: 407-423-9018
    • St. Cloud and Osceola County: 407-957-7373
  • Duke Energy: 1-800-769-3766