SUNDAY, MAY 30, 2021
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THE COASTLAND TIMES
Experts predict busy Atlantic storm season, but not like 2020
By Seth Borenstein AP Science Writer
The Atlantic hurricane season will be busier than normal, but it’s unlikely to be as crazy as 2020’s record-shattering year, meteorologists said. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecasted that the hurricane season, which runs from June through November, will see 13 to 20 named storms. Six to 10 of those storms will become hurricanes and three to five will be major hurricanes with winds of more than 110 mph (177 kilometers per hour), the agency predicted. Since 1990, a typical season sees 14 named storms, seven hurricanes and three major hurricanes — a climate normal that has increased in recent decades. There’s a 60% chance that this hurricane season will be busier than normal and only a 10% chance it will be below normal, NOAA said. Lead agency forecaster Matthew Rosencrans said the season looks to be busy because of warmer water, which fuels storms; reduced cross winds that decapitate storms; and more seeds of stormy weather coming off the coast of Africa. There is also no El Nino weather event, the natural temporary warming of the central Pacific that squelches Atlantic hurricane activity, he said. Atlantic waters are nearly 0.68 degrees (0.38 degrees Celsius) warmer than normal, which is not
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Hurricane Isaias on August 3, 2020.
as hot as 2020 when they were 1 degree (0.56 degrees Celsius) above normal, Rosencrans said. Last year, there were 30 named storms — so many that meteorologists ran out of names and dipped into the Greek alphabet to identify them. There were 14 hurricanes last year, seven of them major. Earlier this year,
meteorologists decided to ditch the Greek alphabet after the normal list of names runs out, instead creating a special overf low list. Seven of last year’s storms caused more than $1 billion in damage. Several universities and private weather companies also make hurricane season forecasts,
with all of them echoing NOAA’s predictions. They predicted 16 to 20 named storms, seven to 10 hurricanes and three to five major hurricanes. “The latest data and forecasts suggest a slightly more aggressive forecast for 2021 is in order, although still nothing close to what happened in 2020,” said Todd
Crawford, chief meteorologist at The Weather Company, which is forecasting 19 named storms and four major hurricanes. The Colorado State University forecast, which is the longest-running seasonal forecast, cited the same reasons as NOAA in predicting 17 named storms, eight hurricanes
and four major hurricanes. It says there is a 69% that a major hurricane will hit somewhere in the U.S. coastline this season, which is higher than the average of 52% for the last century. It gives Florida and the Gulf coast a nearly 50-50 chance of being hit by a major hurricane. The head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency urged Americans in hurricane-prone areas to prepare now, not later. Deanne Criswell said that includes people who live inland because storms are dropping more rain and causing more flooding due to climate change. Climate change has increased storm’s rainfall about 3%, and in the future it could be as much as 10%, Rosencrans said. Warmer water from climate change increases the number of the strongest hurricanes, but research doesn’t show a change in the overall number of named storms from global warming, Rosencrans said. University of Arizona forecast chief Xubin Zeng said the last decade has been unusually active in the Atlantic. “We need to ask ourselves if this is part of the natural variability of the system of if we are already seeing impacts of global warming,” Zeng said in a press release. “If this is part of the natural variability, then after some overactive seasons, we’d expect activity to quiet down, but every year is kind of crazy in the past few years.”
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Disaster Preparedness Guide
SUNDAY, MAY 30, 2021
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THE COASTLAND TIMES
NCDOI: Don’t let hurricane season catch you off guard
June 1 marks the start of the 2021 Atlantic hurricane season. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration or NOAA, it is forecast to be an above-normal season. NOAA estimates 13 to 20 named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher) with six to 10 of them predicted to be hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher). North Carolina and the entire southeast region bear the brunt of many of these storms. That’s why North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey urges residents to prepare now and arm yourself with knowledge, so you’ll know what to do during and after the storm to mitigate any
damages. “These storms are powerful – precious lives and property can be spared if you take the time now, before the wind and rain hit, to protect your valuables,” said Causey. Here are tips to help residents prepare for inclement weather that often accompanies hurricane season: BEFORE • Make sure you have adequate insurance coverage. Know exactly what your insurance policy covers. Homeowners’ policies do not cover flooding. At this time, you can only purchase flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program. Be aware there is a 30-day waiting
period before flood policies take effect. If you live in a rental property, your landlord’s insurance only covers the building. None of your personal belongings are insured unless you purchase your own renters’ policy. • Compile important documents. Gather important paperwork, including insurance policies, medical records and prescriptions. Be prepared to bring copies with you if you are forced to evacuate your home. Know how to get in touch with your insurance agent and company. • Create a home inventory. Go room to room in your home and write down the brand name, description, estimated value and date of purchase of items in your home. It is also helpful to compile receipts, appraisal documents and serial numbers. Take videos or photographs of your belongings. Store your home inventory and related documents in a safe, easily accessible place online, on your smartphone, on your computer or in a fire-proof box or safe deposit box. • Identify potential hazards around your home. Hanging tree branches, loose shingles, patio furniture and other outdoor objects can cause damage or injuries in a storm. Make repairs or secure large objects to reduce the threat. • Check your emergency toolkit and to-go bag. Update items such as food, medicine and batteries. • Electricity may go out, so make sure you have extra drinking water. Also, fill the bathtub with water for bathing and flushing the toilet.
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Flooded roadways after Hurricane Dorian in Manteo.
DURING • Shelter in place if officials advise it. • Stay away from windows, glass doors and skylights. • Find a safe place to stay in the interior of the home on a lower floor, unless flooding is a possibility. • Do not use a landline if lightning is present. Make sure your cell phone is charged. • Turn off the electricity at the main breaker if flooding becomes a threat. • Remain indoors until officials give notice that it is safe to go outside. • If officials order an evacuation, do not come home until officials advise it is safe to do so. AFTER Whether you have sheltered in place or evacuated, facing storm damage to your home can be
devastating. If your home is uninhabitable, you may need to seek temporary shelter. Here are some things you should do immediately after the storm: • C ont ac t you r homeow ners’ insurance agent or company to report the loss. Even if you have a separate windstorm or hail policy in addition to your homeowners’ policy, your primary homeowners’ insurer will investigate and adjust the claim even if you have wind or hail loss. Be patient as the insurer will likely be dealing with many claims. • Make a list of the damages and take clear pictures before you make any temporary repairs. • Do what you can to stop further damage from happening. For instance, place a tarp on your roof to prevent
water from coming into the house. Keep receipts because your reasonable expenses to protect your property are part of the loss and may be reimbursed by your insurance company. • Do not make permanent repairs until your insurance company has inspected the damage and you have agreed on the cost of the repairs. Check with your insurance company before you dispose of damaged materials or items. • If your home is inhabitable, check with your insurance company to determine which expenses will be reimbursed. For more information on how to be prepared before, during and after any storm, contact the N.C. Department of Insurance Consumer Division at 1-855-408-1212.
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Disaster Preparedness Guide
SUNDAY, MAY 30, 2021 THE COASTLAND TIMES
Fire officials encourage summer fire safety Summer vacation should be fun and carefree but fire officials say don’t let common sense check out when you check in. Check to make sure your rental unit has working smoke detectors, never leave cooking appliances unattended while they are on. Develop an escape plan with at least two exits in case a fire breaks out. Most importantly, know where you are. Make sure you know the physical address of your rental. Grilling is one of the most popular summertime activities. If you use a gas grill, make sure it is in good working order. Always check the connection between the propane tank and fuel line. Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it. If you use charcoal, be careful when using starter fluid. When you are
finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container. Always grill in an open area away from structures. Don’t grill on porches or decks. Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grill area. Keep your grill clean. North Carolina and Dare County prohibit the possession of any pyrotechnics which launch or propel into the air, or which explode making a sound. Only “safe and sane” fireworks, are allowed in North Carolina but not in all towns. In Duck, Southern Shores and Nags Head, all fireworks are illegal. When using any pyrotechnics extreme caution should be practiced. For other fire safety tips and regulations, check with your local fire department.
Dare County Emergency Management encourages those eligible to obtain 2021 reentry permits
Hurricane season officially begins on Tuesday, June 1, 2021 and Dare County Emergency Management encourages all Dare County residents, non-resident property owners and business owners to visit www.DareNC.com/Reentry to obtain a 2021 reentry permit. Permits can be obtained via the online system at any time. Reentry permits are issued as a PDF file via email. Once issued, reentry permits expire at the end of the calendar year. Dare County businesses owners who have been approved in the past do not need to reapply. Their assigned “administrator” can manage permits
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and only needs to contact Dare County Emergency Management if changes to their accounts need to be made. Changes might include assigning a new “administrator” or changing the number of permits allocated to their business. During a declared state of emergency that requires a mandatory evacuation in order to ensure public safety, Dare County officials will determine when the area is safe to return to. Delays to reentry into the county can be caused by a variety of factors, including limited public safety response capabilities, damaged/inoperative water supply systems, limited
communications, power outages, septic issues, undermined structures, debris making roadways unsafe or impassable and damage to personal property and critical infrastructure needed to support the population. Dare County operates a staged reentry process that is used to facilitate a safe and orderly return to the community following an evacuation that has taken place. Dare County Emergency Management reminds the public that no one will be denied reentry as long as they have obtained and can present the proper forms of identification to checkpoint officials. In order to enter the count y follow ing a
mandatory evacuation, individuals must present a current and valid reentry permit – expired reentry permits will not be accepted. Dare County’s reentry process is staged in order of the priority of an individual returning to the community during the recovery period that follows a storm and includes the following four categories: • Priority One: Essential Personnel. (Essential utilities personnel, government personnel, medical personnel and damage assessment personnel.) • Priority Two: Permanent Residents and Essential Personnel for Critical
Businesses. (Non-resident essential personnel of critical businesses such as grocery stores, food distributors, pharmacies, banks, gas stations, property management companies, building supply stores and hotels.) • Priorit y Three: Non-Resident Property Owners and Non-Resident Employees of Non-Critical Businesses. • Priority Four: General Public and Visitors. (No reentry permit is needed for Priority Four.) If you are a Currituck County or Hyde County resident, you do not need to apply for a Dare County reentry permit. Valid reentry permits issued by Currituck County
and Hyde County will be honored at traffic control points in Dare County according to their phased reentry schedule. Dare County Emergency Management also reminds individuals to sign up to receive emergency alerts – including severe weather watches and warnings, public safety and emergency-related warnings, county-wide evacuation orders and other time-critical notifications – via the new OBX Alerts platform by visiting www.OBXAlerts. com. For more information and resources to help prepare for the upcoming hurricane season, visit www.ReadyNC.gov.
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SUNDAY, MAY 30, 2021 THE COASTLAND TIMES
Pets should be part of your evacuation plan
By Gregory Clark greg.clark@thecoastlandtimes.com
Emergency managers and animal organizations say when you prepare hurricane evacuation kits, you shouldn’t forget to include your pets needs in your family plan. Leaving your pet behind if you’re forced to evacuate should not be an option. Your pet is susceptible to the same dangers as you would be exposed to during a storm. There are few if any designated shelters in most coastal counties, so people and their pets will need to look inland. Area emergency managers say the state has realized that pets are part of today’s family. When emergency shelters
are open, some will be designated as pet accommodation facilities. Finding pet friendly public shelters in advance can be difficult. During an emergency, listen to local officials and media to find an emergency shelter that will allow pets. Advance planning and preparation will enable you to evacuate with your pets quickly and safely. Pet owners should make sure their animals’ vaccinations, including rabies, are up to date. Pet owners should also obtain their pet’s medical records from their veterinarian. Medical documentation is required by most shelters. Current photos in case your pet becomes lost. Store pet
The Town of Kill Devil is committed to keeping you safe and informed this hurricane season, and always. Being informed is one of the best ways that you can be prepared during an emergency. The Town offers numerous ways in which you can receive our most recent news, advisories, preparedness tips, and more. ▪︎ www.kdhnc.com ▪︎ facebook.com/townofkdh ▪︎youtube.com/user/townofkdh ▪︎ instagram.com/townofkilldevilhills Visit www.kdhnc.com/62/Emergency-Preparedness for hurricane-specific preparedness information. While visiting our website, don’t forget to sign up to receive regular email updates from the Town. You can also sign up to receive emergency alerts (via text, phone call, or email) from the County and Town. Your safety is our priority.
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immunization and medical records in a waterproof container. Designated pet friendly shelters generally require pet owners to feed and care for their animals. When preparing a pet emergency supply kit for evacuation, it should include food, either dry or canned (pop top or have a can opener), enough water to last three to seven days and pet feeding dishes. Include proper identification for all pets. ID tags should include pet name, telephone number and any urgent medical needs. It is suggested you include a two-week supply of any medicine your pet requires and a first aid kit. You may wish to take pet beds and toys,
if easily transportable. A sturdy pet carrier or traveling bag, ideally for each pet. Muzzle, collar and leash for dogs. Disposable litter trays (aluminum pans work well) and litter or paper towels for cats. Pet owners may wish to consider options to shelters when evacuating, A list of pet friendly hotels and motels can be found online at www.petswelcome.com. Check policies regarding types, number, size and species of pets that are accepted. Consider asking friends, relatives or others outside the affected area whether they could shelter your animals. Prepare a list of out of area boarding facilities and veterinarians who could shelter animals in an emergency.
Large animals such as horses and livestock take even more planning. In addition to medical records, a horse owner needs to know how they will transport their animals. They should have a plan if they need to rent a trailer. In past evacuations, large animal shelters in Martin County and Raleigh have been used during storm events. Horse owners are required to feed and care for their animals while they are being sheltered. Although most will evacuate when facing a major hurricane threat, some won’t. Some dogs and cats can become skittish as a storm approaches. Outdoor pets should be brought inside before a forecast storm is projected
to affect the area. After a major storm, the area could be without electricity, water and a way to obtain necessities for days or even weeks. Those who don’t leave should make sure their pets have enough food and water for an extended period. After the storm passes, animal control agencies will attempt to rescue abandoned and injured animals, shelter them and reunite them with their owners. But area agencies say a pet should never be left behind. Not only the pet is at risk, but animal control officers are in danger when rescuing abandoned pets. The SPCA and area animal control agencies can help plan your pet evacuation kit.
Disaster Preparedness Guide
SUNDAY, MAY 30, 2021
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THE COASTLAND TIMES
Currituck implements more efficient system for issuing reentry permits
Currituck County Emergency Management is implementing a more efficient system for issuing reentry permits to Corolla businesses in time for the 2021 hurricane season. A new web address – www.currituckreentry. com – provides a one-stop shop for local businesses to obtain reentry permits for their employees. These permits are necessary to enter Corolla after an evacuation of the Outer Banks.
Following an evacuation, reentry into Corolla is performed in a tier system. Priority I (Essential Personnel) and Priority II (Critical Businesses) both require employees to display Currituck County reentry permits at law enforcement checkpoints. Critical businesses allowed in Priority II must be physically located in Corolla or transient in Corolla or Carova Beach. On www.currituckreentry.com, each business
must complete the online permit application. Once an application is approved by Currituck County Emergency Management, permits will be sent via email to the business. This eliminates the need for paper applications and mailing paper reentry permits, thereby saving time for businesses and money for the county. With this improved efficiency, Emergency Management staff can devote more time to situational tasks during a
hurricane or other critical event that might require an evacuation. Reentry permits expire annually on April 30. Businesses are advised to secure their permits before the start of hurricane season. For complete details, visit www.currituckreentry.com. Anyone with questions regarding the reentry process may contact Currituck County Emergency Management at 252-232-2115.
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Disaster Preparedness Guide SUNDAY, MAY 30, 2021
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THE COASTLAND TIMES
Ocean safety tips A trip to the beach can be a great family outing provided you keep a few safety tip in mind when you get there. • If you cannot swim, stay out of the ocean. That may seem extreme but the ocean can be dangerous and swimming is an essential skill for anyone out there. • Avoid the beach if storms are in the forecast. Wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunder boom before heading back to the beach. The beach will still be there tomorrow. • Swimming in the ocean is different from swimming in a pool. Pools do not have currents, waves and a number of other natural dangers. • Stay close to shore where you can be seen and, if needed, quickly rescued.
• Always swim in an area supervised by a lifeguard. • Always swim with a buddy. • Stay within your fitness and sw imming capabilities. • Avoid swimming at dusk and dawn when visibility is low. • Be alert to rip currents, those narrow channels of fast-moving water that can carry you out to sea. • Be alert to surf conditions. Look for warning flags and know what they mean. Red flag means it is NOT safe to be in the water. • Stay calm. If you do find yourself in trouble do not panic. Fighting waves and currents can get you into more trouble. Try floating in the water and attract the attention of someone on shore. • Call the lifeguard. If
you see someone in trouble fight the instinct to jump in and help. Lifeguards are trained to handle emergencies and there are many incidents where they have had to save two people from a dangerous situation when someone tried to help. • Inflatables can be fun but be aware of the wind. Any offshore wind makes inflatables dangerous. A light breeze on shore can get stronger when you get in the ocean and has the potential to carry you away. • Don’t drink and swim. Alcohol impairs your judgment and slows your reactions. • Never bring glass containers to the beach and don’t litter. Always clean up your trash. Keep these safety tips in mind and they might help you avoid being in trouble in the water.
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Disaster Preparedness Guide SUNDAY, MAY 30, 2021 THE COASTLAND TIMES
Red Cross urges people to get ready for hurricane season The American Red Cross is urging everyone to plan now for any possible dangerous storms this year. “A f ter back-to-back years of active hurricane seasons that have broken records, this year it’s more important than ever before to get ready now,” said Barry Porter, regional CEO of the American Red Cross Eastern North Carolina. “Last year, on top of the pandemic, we saw a record 30 named storms with two hitting the southeast before the actual start of hurricane season.” There are simple steps you can take to be prepared: • Create an evacuation plan. Plan what to do in case you are separated from your family during an emergency and if you have to evacuate. Coordinate your plan with your child’s school, your work and your community’s emergency plans. Plan multiple routes to local shelters, register
family members with special medical needs as required and make plans for pets. If you already have an emergency plan, update it and review with family members so everyone knows what to do if an emergency occurs. • Build an emergency kit with a gallon of water per person, per day, non-perishable food, a f lashlight, battery-powered radio, first aid kit, medications, supplies for an infant and pets if applicable, a multi- purpose tool, personal hygiene items, copies of important papers, cell phone chargers, extra cash, blankets, maps of the area and emergency contact information. Because of the pandemic, include a mask for everyone in your household. • If you already have a disaster kit, now is the time make sure the food and water is still okay to consume and that copies of important documents are up to date. • Be informed. Find out
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how local officials will contact you during a disaster and how you will get important information, such as evacuation orders. • Download the free Red Cross Emergency app to help keep you and your loved ones safe with real-time alerts, open Red Cross shelter locations and safety advice on hurricanes and other emergencies. • Standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover f looding. It’s important to have protection from the f loods associated with hurricanes, tropical storms, heavy rains and other conditions that impact the U.S. For more information on f lood insurance, please visit the National Flood Insurance Program website at www.FloodSmart. gov. “Hur r ic a ne season starts June 1 and runs through November 30,” said Barry Porter. “Get ready now, it’s your best defense.”
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