Busy Hurricane Season Predicted; Buchanan Urges Preparation

BRADENTON – Hurricane season officially begins today and runs through November 30. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecasts four to eight Atlantic Hurricanes this season, with one to four of them reaching category 3, 4 or 5 with winds of 111 mph or higher. Congressman Vern Buchanan (R-Longboat Key) urged constituents to take steps to make sure their families are prepared.

"Early preparation for hurricane season is critical to avoiding injury and potential property damage,“ Buchanan said. "Although we can’t control the severity of these storms, we can act ahead of time to safeguard our families, homes and businesses.“

For basic preparation for a hurricane, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends Americans know their local hurricane evacuation routes, make a family emergency communication plan, purchase a portable generator, secure loose rain gutters and downspouts, reinforce roofs, windows and doors and remove any damaged trees and limbs before rainfall.

"Smart planning and preparation will help save lives and protect property,“ Buchanan said. "There is absolutely no downside in preparing for the worst. The Suncoast can’t afford to be complacent given Mother Nature’s unpredictability.“

The Congressman asked that Floridians and constituents visit the Hurricane Preparedness section on his website at buchanan.house.gov/resources/hurricanes. Visitors to the site will find helpful information on how to prepare themselves and their property for a hurricane, what to do in the event of an evacuation, a list of recommended items to include in an emergency supply kit and links to state and federal resources.