Laurie Wolinski, Extension Agent; lgw@udel.edu
Hurricane season is upon us; June 1st to November 30. While the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has declared the emergence of El Nino (which usually suppresses hurricanes in the Atlantic basin), NOAA also predicts a near normal hurricane season in the Atlantic. A near normal hurricane season involves 12 – 17 named storms. Broken down further, of those named storms, five to nine could become hurricanes with one to four being major hurricanes, category 3, 4 or 5 with winds above 111 mph. Tropical Storm Arlene was the first named storm in 2023. It didn’t pose any threat to the U.S.
Farmers.gov has several web pages dedicated to preparation for and recovery from potential hurricane damage. In addition, it includes information about reporting losses and submitting applications to Farm Service Agency and Approved Insurance Providers. https://www.farmers.gov/protection-recovery/hurricane
A quick list of what to consider in preparing and protecting your operation:
- Develop an emergency plan,
- Remove debris and secure large objects,
- Secure important records and documents, including inventories,
- Know your insurance options,
- Gather supplies,
- Access real-time emergency Information – Download the FEMA app to your mobile devices.
Please heed warnings from local officials if a storm develops.