The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. Tropical and subtropical cyclones are most likely to form in the North Atlantic Ocean during this time, with late August through mid-September historically being the most active period for hurricanes and tropical storms.
Meteorological experts predict above-average tropical storm and hurricane activity during the 2024 hurricane season. The Tropical Storm Risk extended-range forecast calls for 20 tropical storms, 9 hurricanes, and 4 major hurricanes (Category 3 or above). That’s roughly 25% more activity predicted this year over a normal year.
Sample Resources
Hillsborough County Resources (Evacuation Orders, Road Closures, Shelters, TECO Power Outage Maps…)
Hillsborough County Emergency Notifications/Alerts
Local Meteorologist Denis Phillips
Mike’s Weather Page (Facebook) and Mike’s YouTube Channel
NOAA Tropical Storm Helene (various charts)
— Helene: NOAA Potential Storm Surge Flooding Map
— Helene: NOAA Old Port Tampa Forecasted Water Levels
- Filter on station = Old Port Tampa, FL
- Click on “Forecast Guidance” under the chart
NOAA Station: Port Tampa (real time water levels)
NOAA Station: Safety Harbor (forecasted water levels)
NOAA Graphics Archive – Watch the Path of Prior Storms Change Over Time (e.g., Hurricane Ian)
Coastal Emergency Risk Assessment (CERA) – Max. Est. Water Height by Year/Storm/Advisory Track
Other General Reminders
While every forecast has high uncertainty due to variable ocean temperatures and other factors, it’s always wise to prepare early – particularly if you are unfamiliar with Florida storms or will face unique circumstances that may require you to manage added complexity or risk during a storm.
Shore Up Your Property & Develop a Gameplan
To protect your family and property from storm damage, be proactive. Once a storm is close enough to accurately predict where and when it will hit, it’s often too late to fully prepare. Here are some of the steps that can be taken ahead of time:
- Check that your boat’s bilge pumps are functional and batteries are charged.
- Clean gutters and storm drains to ensure water can drain out properly.
- Ensure that exterior doors have at least three solid hinges and a deadbolt.
- Inspect roofs for loose tiles, shingles, or flashing.
- Install surge protectors to defend major appliances from lightning strikes.
- Line exterior vents, outlets, and connections with urethane-based sealant.
- Replace old garage doors with ones that have high wind and impact ratings.
- Seal exterior windows with caulk and purchase/fit hurricane shutters or panels.
- Trim tree branches and take down old or diseased trees and shrubbery.
- Plan for adequate interior space where you can move outdoor items such as dock boxes, umbrellas, and patio furniture when a large storm has been predicted in our area.
- Organize a drybag that contains critical documents/papers (e.g., insurance policies, bank information, IDs, wedding/baby photos). Some bags are also fireproof.
- Plan for a place where you can go, such as a nearby relative who is inland and will welcome you, your children, and pets.
- Plan for what you will do with your boat and whether you will need a trailer or place to move it. Annual inspections of boat trailers are also wise ahead of storm season.
Keep Critical Items On Hand
If a storm is coming our way, you don’t want to be too low on critical items. Consider those things that may be harder to purchase at the last minute or that keep well and, if it makes sense, keep extras on hand during storm season.
- Battery-powered hand radio (like the one many folks have on their boat)
- Some extra formula, baby food, and diapers
- First aid kit with at least a seven-day supply of all medications
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- Nonperishable food like crackers and cereal
- Drinking water (one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days)
- Personal hygiene items
- Pet food and pet supplies
Review Your Insurance Coverage
Consult an expert about coverage to avoid surprises. For instance, homeowner policies generally cover destruction and damage to a residence’s interior and exterior, the loss or theft of possessions, and personal liability for harm to others, but they do not typically cover losses due to flooding. Some sources indicate that just one inch of water can cause more than $25,000 in damage to your property. Tenants and those renting their property should also discuss the unique considerations that apply to them.
Take care, be safe, and enjoy all the good things that Florida weather brings too!
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