Indian River County Emergency Services and the National Hurricane Center are closely monitoring two systems. (Photo: NOAA)
SEBASTIAN – There are two areas of interest that are closely being monitored by the National Hurricane Center and Indian River Emergency Services.
One tropical system is just off the coast of Africa and the other is in the eastern Caribbean.
There is no threat to Florida within the next seven days but both systems should continue to be monitored.
It is recommended that all Indian River County residents be prepared for hurricane season, especially during the most active months of August and September.
Hurricanes are one of nature’s most destructive, widespread weather systems, occurring most frequently during “hurricane season,” from June 1 – November 30.
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Hurricanes, known also as typhoons, are severe tropical storms with heavy rains and intense winds which blow in a large circle around a center known as the “eye.”
Here is a list of some of the most important items to have before a hurricane:
Battery-powered radio or television
Flashlight(s)
Extra batteries
First aid kit
Manually operated can opener
Disinfectant
Household bleach
Credit card and cash
Personal identification
Extra set of car keys
Matches or lighter in a waterproof container
Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
Whistle or flare to signal for help
Map of your local area
Water (1 gallon/person/day)
Seven day supply of non-perishable food items
Two week supply of medications
Mosquito repellent
Fire extinguisher
Instant tire sealer
Two coolers (one for food, one for ice)
Tarps
Clean up supplies
Camera
Garbage can or bucket with kitty litter (for emergency toilet)
Plastic trash bags
Toilet paper, paper towels, moist towelettes
Infant necessities
If you evacuate you also should take:
Pillows, blankets, sleeping bags or air mattresses
Extra clothing, shoes, eyeglasses, etc.
Folding chairs, lawn chairs or cots
Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, etc.)
Quiet games, books, playing cards, favorite toys for children, etc.
Important papers and irreplaceable keepsakes
Precious commodities before/after storm:
Cash (banks may be closed)
Charcoal, matches and grill
Ice
A corded phone
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Andy Hodges was born in Annapolis, Maryland, and raised in Jupiter, Florida. He has been a radio and TV personality since the mid-1980s. He has worked for WFLX-TV (Fox 29), WIRK, WLIZ, WIXI, WKSY, WRMF, and others. In 1994, Andy took a break from broadcasting and was a software and systems engineer for various companies. In 2002, he permanently moved back to Sebastian, where Andy's family has lived for over 45 years. He returned to the broadcasting sector in 2005. Andy joined Sebastian Daily as our editor-in-chief in 2016.
