AUGUST 27, 2024 — The Coast Guard reminds mariners and residents of South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands to remain vigilant and prepared for the remainder of the 2024 hurricane season.
The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to Nov. 30, with the peak occurring between mid-August and late October.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration released an updated forecast on Aug. 8 that predicted a 90% chance for an above-normal 2024 Atlantic hurricane season.
“The hurricane season got off to an early and violent start with Hurricane Beryl, the earliest category-5 Atlantic hurricane on record,” said NOAA Administrator Rick Spinrad, Ph.D. “NOAA’s update to the hurricane seasonal outlook is an important reminder that the peak of hurricane season is right around the corner, when historically the most significant impacts from hurricanes and tropical storms tend to occur.”
It is essential for mariners and the public to take proper measures before a storm arrives. Ensure you have the proper safety equipment, have a hurricane mooring plan or a safe place to store your trailered boat, and monitor the weather and VHF-FM channel 16 prior to a voyage and while out on the water.
The Coast Guard recommends the following preparedness tips for this hurricane season:
- Know Your Hurricane Risk. Hurricanes are not just a coastal problem. Find out how rain, wind, water and even tornadoes could happen far inland from where a hurricane or tropical storm makes landfall. Prepare now to be ready when a storm approaches.
- Make an Emergency Plan. Make sure everyone in your household knows and understands your hurricane plans. Include the office, kids’ day care, your boat, and anywhere else you frequent in your hurricane plans. Ensure your business has a continuity plan to continue operating when disaster strikes.
- Know your Evacuation Zone. You may have to evacuate quickly due to a hurricane if you live in an evacuation zone. Learn your evacuation routes, practice with your household and pets, and identify where you will stay. Follow the instructions from local emergency managers, who work closely with state, local, tribal, and territorial agencies and partners. They will provide the latest recommendations based on the threat to your community and appropriate safety measures.
- Recognize Warnings and Alerts. Have several ways to receive alerts. Download the FEMA app and receive real-time alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five locations nationwide. Sign up for community alerts in your area and be aware of the Emergency Alert System and Wireless Emergency Alert, which require no sign up.
Port Condition changes by the Captain of the Port in advance of storm systems and hurricanes will be available on the Homeport website and announced on official unit social media pages throughout the Seventh District. Check below for your local Coast Guard Sector page:
- U.S. Coast Guard Sector Charleston
- U.S. Coast Guard Sector Jacksonville
- U.S. Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg
- U.S. Coast Guard Sector Miami
- U.S. Coast Guard Sector Key West
- U.S. Coast Guard Sector San Juan
For more information about hurricanes and hurricane preparedness, visit NOAA’s and FEMA’s websites where you can find widgets that provide hurricane tracks and other updates. These can be found at www.ready.gov/hurricanes, www.nhc.noaa.gov, and www.fema.gov. Information is also available in Español, Français and Kreyòl.
For breaking news, follow on X (formerly Twitter). For more information, follow us on Facebook and Instagram. As a reminder, social media should never be used to report life-threatening distress. Call the Coast Guard on VHF marine radio channel 16 or dial 911 for emergencies.
-USCG-
Coast Guard District Seven