SE Texas Times

On June 1, 2024, the hurricane season officially began. From mid to late September, we will enter the most active part of the season. It is crucial to be prepared during this time to ensure the safety of both individuals and families. According to the National Hurricane Center, the peak of hurricane season extends from mid-August to late October, during which most tropical cyclones form in the Atlantic Basin. However, dangerous hurricanes can occur at any time during the season.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has updated its prediction for this year’s hurricane season, now projecting above-normal activity. The NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center forecasts an 85% chance of an above-normal season with between 17 to 25 named storms, including about 8 to 13 hurricanes and 4 to 7 major hurricanes.

Tropical cyclones are more likely to form during hurricane season. These rotating systems of clouds and thunderstorms originate over tropical or subtropical waters and have a closed low-level circulation that rotates counterclockwise. Not all tropical cyclones produce hurricanes; those with maximum sustained winds of 38 mph or less are classified as tropical depressions. Tropical storms have maximum sustained winds of 39-73 mph, while hurricanes have wind speeds of 74 mph or higher. Major hurricanes possess maximum sustained wind speeds of 111 mph or more.

Understanding your home’s vulnerability to storm surge, flooding, and wind is essential during hurricane season. Reviewing insurance policies for adequate coverage is also recommended. Additionally, assembling an emergency kit and preparing a family emergency plan are critical steps for readiness.

The Texas Department of State Health Services advises coastal residents to include specific items in their evacuation kits: first-aid supplies, prescription medications, important documents, credit cards and cash, battery-operated radios with extra batteries, phone numbers for family and friends, road maps, non-perishable food supplies for three days per person along with bottled water (one gallon per person per day), coolers for food storage, manual can openers and other tools such as knives and booster cables.

Other recommended items include blankets or sleeping bags for each person; supplies for babies and elderly family members; personal hygiene products; pet supplies including leashes and veterinary records; fire extinguishers; duct tape; tarps; ropes; flashlights with extra batteries; extra keys; toys for children; toilet paper; cleanup supplies.

In case a hurricane approaches, finding the best evacuation route is imperative. Preparing an evacuation checklist ahead of time can save lives.

Physical damage from hurricanes can be severe but mitigative actions can help reduce harm from strong winds and rain. Trimming damaged trees and limbs in advance can prevent them from causing damage during high winds. Securing windows by boarding them up beforehand protects against breakage due to flying debris. Bringing loose outdoor items inside prevents them from becoming projectiles in high winds while securing all doors—including garage doors—adds another layer of protection.

To stay informed about potential storms throughout hurricane season visit The National Hurricane Center's website at www.nhc.noaa.gov or The National Weather Service's site at www.weather.gov/hurricanesafety/. Additional resources on hurricane preparedness are available on my website under Elect Todd Hunter – Hurricane Resources.

For questions regarding any information mentioned here please contact my Capitol Office at (512)463-0672 or District Office at (361)949-4603 anytime if you need assistance with Texas state agencies or constituent services.

– State Representative Todd Hunter

Rep Hunter represents Aransas County & part of Nueces County & can be contacted via email todd.hunter@house.texas.gov