Together we must prepare for Complex Disaster Response. As we are over capacity responding to COVID-19 we can be caught off guard by other disasters that may impact our communities. NOAA has reminded us to prepare for a “Busy Atlantic hurricane season predicted for 2020 with Multiple climate factors indicate above-normal activity is most likely”
We are sharing an message from NOAA’s latest forecast and reminder that we are now facing a new normal. Flood Response that we were planning for just months ago are no longer viable. We must now take into account social distancing and pandemic protective measures that will make response much more complicated. Citizens, responders and disaster response NGO’s must all rethink how we will respond together. We must all do our part to equip ourselves.
Excerpts from NOAA
An above-normal 2020 Atlantic hurricane season is expected, according to forecasters with NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, a division of the National Weather Service. The outlook predicts a 60% chance of an above-normal season, a 30% chance of a near-normal season, and only a 10% chance of a below-normal season. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30.
NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center is forecasting a likely range of 13 to 19 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. An average hurricane season produces 12 named storms, of which 6 become hurricanes, including 3 major hurricanes.
“As Americans focus their attention on a safe and healthy reopening of our country, it remains critically important that we also remember to make the necessary preparations for the upcoming hurricane season,” said Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross. “Just as in years past, NOAA experts will stay ahead of developing hurricanes and tropical storms and provide the forecasts and warnings we depend on to stay safe.”
As with every hurricane season, the need to be prepared is critically important this year.
“Social distancing and other CDC guidance to keep you safe from COVID-19 may impact the disaster preparedness plan you had in place, including what is in your go-kit, evacuation routes, shelters, and more. With tornado season at its peak, hurricane season around the corner, and flooding, earthquakes and wildfires a risk year-round, it is time to revise and adjust your emergency plan now,” said Carlos Castillo, acting deputy administrator for resilience at FEMA. “Natural disasters won’t wait, so I encourage you to keep COVID-19 in mind when revising or making your plan for you and your loved ones, and don’t forget your pets.“
Visit www.disastervolunteerismacademy.org for free COVID 19 and Flood Response Training. Join us for our Bi-month Ready Responders Round Table.
Lisa Orloff
Founders and President,
World Cares Center
