As of June 1st, the 2016 tropical season is officially upon us. The National Weather Service has predicted a very active season, which should make safety preparation for Floridians and other high risk area residents a top priority. This summer's predicted strong La Nina weather pattern indicates that the southeastern United States could experience anywhere from 10-16 named storms. Hurricane Alex formed in the Atlantic early this year and was the first hurricane to form in the month of January since 1955. If Alex is an indication of things to come, we should take the message of getting prepared very seriously.

The lack of tropical activity in previous years has more than likely placed thoughts of dangerous weather in the back of my people's minds. With consistent and favorable conditions for tropical cyclone development upon us, now is the time for you to prepare and have a plan in the event of an unexpected catastrophe. There are numerous resources available, including many websites, that can help you keep abreast of current weather conditions and provide how-to’s for getting “Hurricane Ready.”

Aside from awareness, having a plan to avoid disaster is essential. Ideally you will know if evacuation is necessary a few days before a storm hits. However, we all know weather can change very rapidly which is why readying family and home with supplies is key for residents of higher risk areas. In 2004, Hurricane Charley took an unexpected turn from the predicted path and devastated unsuspecting residents of Punta Gorda, FL. A full tank of gas in your vehicle and healthy quantities of bottled water and non-perishable food reserves are a good start to making the best of a disastrous scenario. The American Red Cross has detailed advice and instruction for how to prepare for and recover from catastrophe. As Florida residents it is important to stay in the know and expect the unexpected!

The team at Heintz Law hopes you’ll take this short blog to heart and beef up your hurricane preparations. Should you or a loved one need the help of an attorney, please call our office. If we are unable to help, we are always happy to try and provide you with an alternative.