The 2024 hurricane season is here and we want to help you get prepared. The Atlantic hurricane season started June 1 and runs until Nov. 30 — forecasters predict this season will be a busy one.
This guide will refresh you on preparing for a storm and provide some resources to stay weather-aware — Raleigh is over 100 miles from the coast, but hurricanes can still hit central NC hard.
Predictions
Experts think this season will see above-normal activity due to La Nina events which enhance hurricane activity in the Atlantic. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts 17 to 25 named storms this summer + fall, with eight to 13 achieving hurricane status with 74+ mph sustained winds.
We recommend taking a peek at Ready NC’s Hurricane Guide for specific guidance on staying safe at home, evacuating, helping others in times of need, maintaining your small biz, and creating an emergency supplies kit.
Vocab to know
- Tropical Depression: A tropical cyclone with maximum sustained winds of 38 mph or less.
- Tropical Storm: A tropical cyclone with maximum sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph.
- Hurricane: A tropical cyclone with maximum sustained winds of 74 mph or higher.
- Major Hurricane: A tropical cyclone with maximum sustained winds of 111 mph or higher.
Category breakdown
- Category One: Winds 74 to 95 miles per hour.
- Category Two: Winds 96 to 110 miles per hour.
- Category Three: Winds 111 to 129 miles per hour.
- Category Four: Winds 130 to 156 miles per hour.
- Category Five: Winds 157 miles per hour.
Watch vs. warning
When a storm is expected, the National Hurricane Center will issue advisories until the storm makes landfall.
- Watch: Tropical storm or hurricane conditions pose a possible threat within the next 48 hours, and you should begin preliminary preparations.
- Warning: Tropical storm or hurricane conditions are expected within the next 36 hours, and all preparations should be completed.
Prepare
- Stay up to date on forecasts + advisories.
- Prepare your home — this could include bringing loose items inside, trimming trees, or reinforcing windows.
- Gather supplies like non-perishable food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, cash, blankets, and first aid supplies.
- If you have a pet, pack a kit with food, water, leashes, medications, and health records.
