Near-Normal Hurricane Season Predicted

The formation of an El Niño and cooler than normal sea-surface temperatures in the Atlantic Main Development Region could suppress hurricane formation and severity.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) forecast, there is a 50-percent chance of a below-normal season, a 40 percent chance of a near-normal season and a 10-percent chance of an above-normal season.  The six-month hurricane season began June 1, and NOAA predicts a 70 percent likelihood of eight to 13 named storms, those with winds of greater than 39 mph, and three to six of those could become hurricanes, achieving winds of 74 mph or higher, including one or two major hurricanes, with winds of 111 mph or higher.

These numbers are near or below the seasonal averages of 12 named storms, six hurricanes and three major hurricanes, based on the average from 1981 to 2010. The Atlantic hurricane region includes the North Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico.

Extreme Weather History on July Fourth

Dogs and the 4th of July - Keep Your Dog Safe During the Celebration

 

The 4th of July is a time of celebration. It's all about food, family, fun and fireworks. However, it could be a dangerous and frightening time for your dog. Learn how to keep your dog safe during the Fourth of July holiday festivities.
                                                                                               

FIREWORKS: Fireworks and dogs simply do not mix. Many owners underestimate their dogs when it comes to fireworks. The truth is, even the bravest dogs can become terrified by their sound. The most important thing you can do for your dog is to keep her away from fireworks displays. If you plan to go see fireworks, do your dog a favor and leave her at home. If fireworks can be heard near your home, keep her indoors for the evening, and give her a safe place to curl up, like a crate or plush dog bed with blankets.

HEAT STROKE: July 4th in the U.S. is one of the hottest times of the year. While many celebrations are held outdoors, we humans have the benefit of going in and out of the house as needed. We can also cool ourselves with sweat. Sometimes we can even take a dip in the pool. Unfortunately, our dogs do not have it so easy. Because they can only cool themselves through their mouths and feet, they are more prone to heat stroke. If your dog is outside for the party all day, and you get caught up in the festivities, you may easily forget that your dog might be too hot. Always keep plenty of fresh, cool water available and be sure there are shady spots for your dog. When in doubt, let her go back in the house.

DANGEROUS FOODS: Picnic food and party dishes can be tempting for your dog, especially if the food is laid out buffet-style. At a gathering of people, some food is bound to drop on the ground. The problem is that many everyday people foods are unhealthy or even poisonous to your dog. Onions, grapes, and alcohol can actually be deadly! Fatty foods can cause your dog to become very ill, possibly even leading to pancreatitis. If swallowed by your dog, bones, corn cobs and wooden barbecue skewers can traumatize the GI tract or even cause an obstruction. In these cases, surgery is often necessary. If your dog is a "food-monger," it is probably best that she is kept away from the party when people are eating. For a special treat, people foods like carrots, apples, peas and lean meats can be healthy in moderate amounts

GETTING LOST: Many dogs go missing during holidays and celebrations. Don't let your dog become one of the statistics. It can be easy for your dog to slip through an open gate or door because one guest left it unlatched. Strange people and noises can frighten some dogs into running away to hide. Be sure to keep a close watch on your dog to make sure she does not wander off or run away. Always keep a collar on your dog that has identification with current contact information. If you feel that there is any chance she could become lost, then it might be best to keep her confined.

Basic Fireworks Safety Measures

There are some basic safety measures you should take when using fireworks:

1. Buy fireworks from reliable dealers; buying fireworks from a guy who is selling them from his trunk is not a good idea!
2. Make sure you read all the directions and follow them as well. You are using explosives so it is important you know what you should do.
3. I know this sounds silly but I have to say it; use fireworks outdoors only. People have tried on several occasions to create 'light shows' indoors.
4. Make sure you have water near by, and not just a bucket of water. A garden hose that is hooked up and working well is important as well.
5. Do not allow children to play with fireworks and always have a responsible adult present.
6. Do not try and make your own fireworks, they are very complicated and should be left up to the professionals to make.
7. Do not light multiple fireworks at once; this can be very dangerous because if something goes wrong with more then one, you will be out numbered.
8. Do not point fireworks at people or throw them at people.
9. Do not carry fireworks in your pocket, backpack or purse!
10. When you dispose of fireworks make sure you soak them in a bucket of water first.
11. When you light fireworks eye protection is very important, and make sure all body parts are out of the way.

As a spectator watching fireworks make sure you are far enough away that debris from the firework won't hit you. Also exposed to loud sounds can very be damaging to your hearing, it is best to wear ear protection!