On June 1, this year's official Hurricane Season kicked off, though the first tropical storm of 2019 already formed and dissipated between May 20 and 21. Early in the season is a great time to start getting prepared for possible storm activity affecting us on the Treasure Coast.
Knowledge is power, it is often said, and that means that there's a lot of power in reading the information on the Indian River County Emergency Management website. There are details regarding evacuation routes, the locations of a variety of local emergency shelters (including pet-friendly options), disaster preparedness tips, and more. Although your trusted weather service will likely be able to give you advance warning about a storm's likely impacts to our region, it's helpful to have a plan and necessary supplies at the ready even farther in advance. Particularly because the barrier island is one of the very first regions in the county to be evacuated.
Perhaps unexpectedly, the dangerous time comes after the hurricane's immediate threat has passed: the aftermath. Flooding, downed power lines, unsteady trees, and debris are common post-storm hazards. It's vital that both alertness and thoughtful decision-making continue to guide your behavior.
Be prepared and be safe.