South Florida Officials are Reminding People to Get Ready Because Experts Say Storm Season Will be Busy!

In light of forecasts predicting one of the busiest Atlantic hurricane seasons in history, officials in South Florida are emphasizing the importance of preparation and safety measures. Miami-Dade County authorities, alongside emergency management personnel, convened a news conference to underscore the significance of hurricane readiness.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) anticipates a substantial number of named storms, ranging between 17 to 25, throughout the summer and fall. Of these, 8 to 13 are expected to escalate to hurricane status, with wind speeds of at least 75 mph (120 kph), and four to seven could become major hurricanes, characterized by winds exceeding 111 mph (178 kph).

This forecast surpasses the average Atlantic hurricane season, which typically yields 14 named storms, including seven hurricanes and three major hurricanes. Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava utilized the impending hurricane season to highlight additional environmental hazards facing the region.

She emphasized the county’s vulnerability not only to hurricanes but also to other repercussions of extreme weather, such as heatwaves, storms, and floods, exacerbated by the looming threat of climate change.

However, recent legislative actions have raised concerns regarding the state’s approach to addressing climate-related challenges. Governor Ron DeSantis signed a law prohibiting local governments from mandating heat and water breaks for outdoor workers, a move criticized as counterproductive by Miami-Dade County officials. Furthermore, another bill signed by DeSantis deprioritizes climate change and eliminates the term from various state laws.

Despite these setbacks, Miami-Dade County remains proactive in safeguarding its residents. Measures include implementing heat-related breaks for county workers and ongoing public education initiatives, particularly in light of record-high temperatures experienced in South Florida.

Robert Molleda, head meteorologist for the National Weather Service in Miami, underscored the threat posed by flooding, identifying storm surge as the primary weather-related cause of fatalities during hurricanes in the United States.

Miami-Dade emergency management director Pete Gomez echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the importance of early preparation and adherence to evacuation notices to mitigate risks associated with hurricane-related hazards.

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The reminder comes amidst memories of past evacuations, such as during Hurricane Irma in 2017, when Florida highways became congested as thousands sought refuge from the storm’s path. As South Florida braces for an active hurricane season, officials urge residents and visitors alike to prioritize readiness and safety measures to minimize potential impacts.