By The Star Staff
The U.S. Coast Guard reminded residents and boaters in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, South Carolina, Georgia and Florida on Monday to remain alert and prepared for the remainder of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, which runs through Nov. 30, with its peak between mid-August and late October.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) updated its forecast on Aug. 8, predicting a 90% chance of an above-normal Atlantic hurricane season.
“The forecast update is an important reminder that we are entering the peak of hurricane season, when the most significant impacts from hurricanes and tropical storms historically occur,” said NOAA Administrator Rick Spinrad in a written statement..
The Coast Guard stressed the importance of taking preventative measures before a storm hits. It is critical that boaters have the proper safety equipment, a hurricane mooring plan or a safe place to store their vessels, and monitor the weather and VHF-FM channel 16 before and during any voyage.
Four primary recommendations were emphasized:
1) Know your hurricane risk, 2) Develop an emergency plan, 3) Know your evacuation zone, and 4) Recognize warnings and alerts.
Comments