NEWS

According to today’s updated NOAA hurricane season predictions, we need to prepare for one of the most active hurricane seasons on record. As we enter the peak months for hurricane development, everyone is encouraged to get ready now before more storms threaten.

While many of us were prepared for a Category 1 hurricane to impact Indian River County, we were once again spared as Tropical Isaias only brushed our coast and impacts were minimal. Thankfully, we had no reports of damages or injuries in Indian River County.

UPDATED ATLANTIC HURRICANE SEASON PREDICTIONS (AUGUST 6, 2020)
1. Colorado State University (CSU) updated their season hurricane predictions on August 5 and are now calling for an “extremely active” 2020 Atlantic hurricane season. The CSU team predicts that hurricane activity will be about 190% of the average season. The forecast team predicts a total of 24 named storms in 2020, which is 11 more storms than average.

2. National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) updated their season predictions on August 6. There is a higher potential for an “extremely active” season. There have been a record-setting nine named storms so far and this year has the potential to be one of the busiest on record. Their updated outlook calls for 19-25 names storms, of which 7-11 will become hurricanes, including 3-6 major hurricanes (this includes the nine named storms to date).

WHY IS INCREASED HURRICANE ACTIVITY BEING PREDICTED?
 The sea surface temperatures across the tropical Atlantic and Caribbean are much warmer than usual.
 Wind shear and trade winds in the Atlantic are very weak.
 There is a very active West African monsoon season.
 Potential La Niña which can contribute to even weaker trade winds.

RECOMMENDATIONS:
Our recommendation is for you to know your risk, have a plan, remain vigilant, and be prepared to act when necessary. Pick up a copy of the Official Disaster Guide for Indian River County at the county libraries or county administration building. The Guide can also be downloaded by clicking on this link: https://www.irces.com/EM/documents/Disaster-Preparedness.pdf. Due to COVID-19, evacuees are strongly encouraged to seek shelter at the home of a friend, relative, or out of the area. Public shelters are recommended as a last resort.