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Experts have predicted that 2017 and 2018 will have the most active and dangerous storm conditions in more than a decade.

2017-2018 Storm Season predictions:

14 Named Storms, 7 Hurricanes, 3 Major Hurricanes, and approximately 60% chance of an above-normal storm season.
This forecast was based on the premise that sea surface temperatures are generally warmer than normal. Warmer-than-normal sea surface temperatures increase the strength for developing storms.

Current Storm Forecast:

Hurricane IRMA Category 5 expected landfall in South Florida early Sunday
Hurricane JOSE Category 3 developing now in the Southern Atlantic Ocean
Hurricane KATIA Category 3 developing now in the Gulf of Mexico

What can you do to prepare and keep you and your family safe?

The dangers of a storm include torrential rains, high winds, and storm surges.  You should prepare the same for every season, regardless of how much activity is predicted.

Before severe storms and hurricanes happen, you need to prepare. To prepare, you should take the following measures:

• To begin preparing, you should build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan. Consider storage locations for different situations. Help community members do the same.
• Keep a list of contact information for reference in the event of an emergency.
• Learn the elevation level of your property and whether the land is flood-prone
• Pet owners should have plans to care for their animals...
• Learn community hurricane evacuation routes and how to find higher ground.
• Rate your flood risk with the FloodSmart.gov
• Review the Centers for Disease Control's (CDC) health considerations before, during, and after a storm

Make plans to secure your property

• Cover all of your home’s windows.
• Be sure trees around your home are well trimmed so they are more wind resistant.
• Inspect sump pumps and drains to ensure proper operation. (Have it serviced)
• Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts.
• Plan to bring in all outdoor furniture and anything else that is not tied down.
• Install a generator for emergencies. If you own a generator, have a licensed electrician provide a transfer switch to your sump pump so you can operate it in the event of flooding and or invest in a dedicated battery backup system for your sump pump.

Hurricanes cause heavy rains that can cause extensive flood damage. Be prepared and help reduce your risk for yourself, family, and community.

Saffir-Simpson Wind (mph) Hurricane Example

Category One: 74 - 95 Allison (1995), Danny (1997)

Category Two: 96 - 110 Bonnie (1998), George (1998), Gustav (2002)

Category Three: 111 - 130 Roxane (1995), Fran (1996), Rita (2005)

Category Four: 131 - 155 Opal (1995), Iniki (1992), Charley (2004), Katrina (2005)

Category Five: 156 + Andrew (1992)

Reference:

Colorado State University expects 14 named storms, six hurricanes and two major hurricanes this season.
NOAA expects 11 to 17 named storms this season, more than the 30-year average for the Atlantic Basin.
The Weather Company predicts 14 named storms, seven hurricanes and three major hurricanes this season.
Tropical Meteorology Project (TMP) gave an approximately 60% chance of an above-normal hurricane season

NATIONAL HURRICANE CENTER
http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/

INTERNATIONAL HURRICANE PROTECTION ASSOCIATION (INTHPA)
http://inthpa.com/

GLOBAL WEATHER OSCILLATIONS
http://www.globalweatheroscillations.com/2017-18-hurricane-predictions-