We’ve already heard about Hurricane Erin, but what’s next?  According to a key   weather service, Brunswick County can expect an “above normal amount of hurricane activity.

NOAA, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, is predicting a higher number of named storms and hurricanes than we have seen in previous years.    They indicated that we will see 13 to 19 named storms and 6 to 10 hurricanes this season, with 3 to 5 of them being major hurricanes.

North Carolina and especially Brunswick County have the highest probability of being impacted by these storms. There are three major factors that contribute to the hurricane season.  The first is warm ocean temperatures, the second is La Nina and the third is Weak Wind Shear, or a change in wind speed or direction.

La Niña contributes to active Atlantic hurricane seasons because it reduces vertical wind shear, creating more stable conditions for tropical storms to develop and intensify.  It also shifts atmospheric patterns to bring more  moisture and unstable air into the Main Development Region where hurricanes form.

Hurricane season in our area runs from June 1 to November 30.  Be prepared.  Know the evacuation routes pertinent to your area.  Build an evacuation kit with blankets, warm clothing, boots and first aid materials.  Pack water.  Move your important paperwork to a safe location.  Keep your cell phones charged.  If you are ordered to evacuate, leave the area.

For additional information, go to the Brunswick County Emergency Management website.