It comes around every year, TBAY: The dreaded hurricane season.
The season kicks off Saturday, June 1 and runs through Saturday, November 30.
What’s in store?
Experts are predicting an above-average hurricane season in 2024. Last year was also predicted to be above average, and it ranked No. 4 among seasons with the most named storms.
Colorado State University researchers forecast the Atlantic basin will likely see 23 named storms, including 11 hurricanes, according to WFLA. Out of the 11 hurricanes, five are predicted to be Category 3, 4, or 5.
Instead of worrying about what’s to come, let’s get prepped:
✍️ Bookmark this need-to-know info
- Look up your area’s flood zone map — check out Hillsborough + Pinellas. Then, make a plan for where you will stay if officials issue an evacuation order for your area.
- Sign up for Alert Tampa or Alert Pinellas for storm updates and notifications.
💵 Take advantage of tax-free holidays
The best time to restock your hurricane kit — yes, you need one — is during one of the Disaster Preparedness Tax Holidays. During the periods, families can stock up on items like tarps, batteries, and flashlights, all sales-tax-free.
This year the holidays are:
- June 1 to 14
- August 24 to September 6
🔦 Refill your tool kit
We’ve earmarked a handful of key items to have just in case. For even more ideas, check out this comprehensive list from the Red Cross.
- Flashlight
- Water and non-perishables
- First aid kit
- Refills of medicine — speak to your doctor about this one
- Hand crank radio
- Power bank + batteries
- Important documents and items of significance (e.g., special photos + memorabilia)
☎️ Emergency phone numbers and radio stations
Stay connected with these lines and stations:
- American Red Cross: 863-294-5941
- Citizens Information Line: 833-872-4636
- United Way Information: 211 or 888-370-7188
- TECO power outage line: 1-877-588-1010
- Duke Energy power outage line: 800-228-8485
- Report price gouging: 1-866-966-7226
- NOAA Radio Broadcast Channels: 162.500 & 162.550 MHz
Stay safe, everyone (or Stay safe, TBAY)
