June 1 marks the beginning of the 2017 hurricane season, and state officials are warning Floridians to get ready for an above average year of storms.
Hurricane season, which lasts from Thursday to Nov. 30, began unusually early this year. Tropical Storm Arlene surprised forecasters in April when it became the first named storm of the 2017 season.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) officials said this year would produce around 11 to 17 named storms during the 2017 Atlantic hurricane season, with five to nine hurricanes included in the mix. Forecasters said warmer than usual surface temperatures on top of a weak El Nino atmosphere pattern were indicators Floridians could be seeing more storms than usual this year.
NOAA did not, however, indicate how many of the named storms would actually make landfall.
The Sunshine State is in particular danger during Hurricane Season due to its unique position between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. Last year's hurricane season was especially active, with 15 named storms, including seven tropical storms and four hurricanes.
Category 1 Hurricane Hermine became the first storm to make landfall in over a decade when it hit the Tallahassee area last September, leaving thousands without power. Some Tallahassee residents were without power for weeks.
State lawmakers approved a three-day disaster preparedness tax holiday to help Floridians save some cash while stocking up on supplies for storms. Officials recommend having at least 72 hours worth of food and water in case of a hurricane.
Gov. Rick Scott made an appearance at the National Hurricane Center in Miami to kick off the 2017 hurricane season Thursday.
Safety, Scott stressed, was the state’s top priority going into the 2017 hurricane season, especially with an above-average season on the horizon.
“I encourage all Floridians to take advantage of this weekend’s disaster preparedness sales tax holiday and ensure your family is safe,” Scott said.
National and state disaster preparedness officials agreed.
“It only takes one hurricane to change your life,” said U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary John Kelly. “If you – or a close family member - live in an area prone to hurricanes or inland flooding, now is the time to prepare.”
“It’s never too early to begin preparing your business or family for a potential hurricane impact,” Florida Division of Emergency Management Director Bryan Koon said. “Now is the right time.”
The following items will be tax-free during from June 2-4:
Batteries (AA-cell, C-cell, D-cell, 6-volt, or 9-volt batteries) for $30 or less
Nonelectric coolers for $30 or less for $20 or less
Reusable ice $10 or less
Portable self-powered radio, two-way radio, or weather band radio for $50 or less
Tarpaulin or flexible waterproof sheeting for $50 or less
First-aid kits (always exempt)
Ground anchor systems or tie-down kits for $50 or less
Gas or diesel fuel tanks for $25 or less
Portable generators for $750 or less
Reach reporter Allison Nielsen by email at allison@sunshinestatenews.com or follow her on Twitter: @AllisonNielsen.
