The Atlantic hurricane season is from June 1 through November 30. This is the time, historically, when tropical or subtropical cyclones are most likely to form in the North Atlantic Ocean.
Hurricanes form and intensify where the air is warm in the tropics. They start as weaker storms, called tropical storms, and then grow stronger while collecting energy from warm ocean water.
Most Florida storms form over the Atlantic, some as far away as the coast of West Africa. Storms can become quite strong because of their ability to become charged by warm water and moist air, something the Florida climate has plenty of in the wet and rainy months.
The tropical storms grow in intensity, and you can categorize a hurricane as a huge cluster of thunderstorms. The faster the warm air rises, the more it churns, causing huge waves in the ocean and powerful winds. The winds and the subsequent waves and flooding can be devastating to coastal communities.
There are several national meteorological services and scientific agencies that forecast how many named storms or major hurricanes may reach landfall in the United States. Several key organizations are forecasting an average year of named storms for 2023. Multiple meteorologists have predicted that approximately 11 to 15 named tropical storms are possible to develop in the Atlantic basin in 2023.
Safety during hurricane season is of utmost importance, as hurricanes can cause significant damage and pose risks to human life and property. Hurricane preparedness is key to ensuring the safety for all. During hurricane season, it is critically important to always stay informed, have a plan, and be ready to act when necessary.
In terms of stormwater, we recommend construction sites prepare BMPs for the coming weather prior to the storm to minimize on-site and off-site impacts. Removing inlet protection, positioning silt fence and other perimeter controls, and discharging water from ponds can help to prevent potential flooding. We provide our clients with updates and recommendations on how to best protect their sites. Additionally, the site operator should secure the SWPPP book safely indoors as part of preparing for a hurricane.
Hurricane season creates a lot of additional stress, and it is important to produce a plan. KCI has extensive experience in stormwater management and compliance. Over the years, we have also experienced many of Florida’s tropical storms and understand how to help clients plan, prepare, and ride the storm out. Call us today, 888-346-7779.
