When It Comes To Hurricanes, Lightning Really Can Strike Twice

Weather experts are predicting a less active hurricane season on the Atlantic Coast than in recent years due to the fact that water temperatures are projected to be cooler than they have been under the influence of El Nino.

While a storm of the magnitude of Sandy may not occur again for many years, it is always a good idea to prepare for the possibility that a storm or other disaster may interrupt the usual summer cycles of rainy and sunny days and present the state with a major weather challenge.

If that occurs, it’s up to each of us to be ready to respond effectively.  


That means using the tools of preparedness that can mean the difference between life and death, danger and safety, when a storm arrives.    

    - Perhaps the most important thing you can do is create a family communications plan. Make cards for each family member with names and contact numbers. Have a contact in another state, or at least another town, that family members can get in touch with, as making a long-distance call or even sending a text message may be easier than a local call during a disaster.

   - Know how to get to higher ground if you need to evacuate, what your community’s evacuation route is, and where it goes. New Jersey has several state roads, U.S. highways and interstates designated as state coastal evacuation routes along with county and local routes.

  - You also want to know just how vulnerable your home and property are to flooding. Learn the elevation level of your property and whether there are any levees or dams in the area that might pose a flood threat.

  - Secure your home’s windows, roof, and garage. Permanent storm shutters are best for windows, but plywood five-eighths of an inch thick and cut to fit is an effective temporary solution and will also work on windowed garage doors. Secure the roof to the frame of the house by adding straps or additional clamps, and while you’re up there, make sure the gutters are clear.

 

- Keep any trees and shrubs around your home trimmed to improve their wind resistance. Bring in outdoor furniture, decorations, plants in stands, and anything else outside that isn’t nailed down. If you own a boat, decide ahead of time where and how you plan to secure it.

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.