2009 Atlantic Hurricane Season Begins June 1

The Tropical Meteorology Project at Colorado State University has released its annual predictions for the 2009 Atlantic Hurricane Season. Lead by Dr. William Gray and Dr. Philip Klotzbach, who are considered some of the foremost experts on predicting tropical weather systems, scientists have predicted an average hurricane season for 2009. They estimate that the 2009 season will have about six hurricanes and 12 named storms – two of which may be classified as intense. These results are based on data as of April 7, 2009. Their studies indicate that the probability for at least one major (Category 3, 4 or 5) hurricane landfall along coastal areas are: 1) Along the entire U.S. coastline – 54 percent; 2) U.S. East Coast, including Florida – 32 percent; 3) Gulf Coast from the Florida Panhandle westward to Brownsville – 31 percent; 4) Average major hurricane landfall risk in the Caribbean.

As hurricane season approaches, the 2009 season begins on June 1, it is important that you take the necessary precautions in case a storm hits the area. You should compile an emergency disaster kit and store the items in an easy-to-carry container like a backpack or duffle bag. Your family’s preparedness kit should include:

• Water – one gallon per person per day
• Non-perishable packaged or canned food & a non-electric can opener
• Clothing – including rain gear & sturdy shoes
• Blankets or sleeping bags
• First Aid kit & prescription medicines
• Extra glasses
• Battery-powered radio, flashlight & extra batteries
• Credit cards & cash
• Extra car keys
• List of family physicians
• Important family information
• Special items for infants, elderly or disabled family members

It is also important that WFEC members make sure the cooperative has the correct information on file. Now is a good time to check your account information with the cooperative to ensure your phone number is correct so that our automated system recognizes your number when an outage is reported to our automated system. You may also want to add cell phone numbers to your account in case your home phone is out and an outage needs to be reported from your mobile phone instead. You may update this information online at our Web site, www.westflorida.coop or by calling one of our Customer Service Representatives at (850) 263-3231 or (800) 342-7400.