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2019 Hurricane Season
Although the 2018 hurricane season didn't prove detrimental to coastal Georgia, damage from storms elsewhere was extensive. After two costly and damaging hurricane seasons the two years prior, many coastal residents dread what we might face this year.
Regardless of the forecasts, it's imperative to be ready for whatever might happen. If you would like a free copy of the Southern Tides Hurricane Guide, email info@ southerntidesmagazine.com.
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Good luck and be safe!
2019 Hurricane Season Forecast
CSU
NOAA
2018 CSU Forecast NOAA Forecast Actual
Named Storms 14 11 - 17 15 Hurricanes 6 5 - 9 8
Major Hurricanes 2 2 - 4 2
2017
CSU Forecast NOAA Forecast Actual
Named Storms 11 11 - 17 17 Hurricanes 4 5 - 9 10 Major Hurricanes 2 2 - 4 6
2016 CSU Forecast NOAA Forecast Actual
Named Storms 12 10 - 16 15 Hurricanes 5 4 - 8 7
Major Hurricanes 2 1 - 4 3 Andrea* Barry Chantal Dorian Erin Fernand Gabrielle
Olga Pablo Rebekah Sebastien Tanya Van Wendy
Forecasting Agencies: CSU — The Department of Atmospheric Sciences's Tropical Meteorology Project at Colorado State University NOAA — The National Oceanic and Atmosphereic Administration
Understanding the Risks
The five biggest hazards related to hurricanes are: • Storm surge and/or tidal surge • Inland flooding as a result of heavy rains • High winds which can result in structural damage and downed trees • Tornadoes • Rip currents (stay out of the water!)
2019 Hurricane Names
Humberto Imelda Jerry Karen Lorenzo Melissa Nestor
* Andrea formed on May 20, making 2019 the fifth consecutive year with named storms prior to the June 1 start of hurricane season.
Weather Monitoring Resources
National Hurricane Center: www.nhc.noaa.gov Weather Underground: www.wunderground.com/hurricane The Weather Channel: weather.com/storms/hurricane-central Also monitor your local TV and radio news for local flood alerts, rain and wind advisories, and evacuation information.
Tasks to Begin Now
• Review (or create) your hurricane plan, update as needed • Determine where you'll evacuate if an order is issued • Inspect roof for loose shingles and leaks, repair as needed • Purchase materials to cover your windows • Service your generator (run quarterly) • Update your home inventory • Review your insurance policies, adjust if needed • Begin saving water storage containers • Begin purchasing bottled water, non-perishable food, and ethanol-free fuel for your generator in small amounts to spread out the cost and save time and money later • Establish an emergency fund and begin adding to it, for use during evacuation and for recovery after a storm • Make sure your pet's vaccinations are current and have copies on hand • Update your important documents (ID, new medical/Rx information, new financial or legal documents, etc.) • Make a habit of checking the NHC website • Develope a "worst case" plan. What will you do if your home is lost or workplace is destroyed?
