With the lazy, hazy days of summer upon us, so comes the threat of severe tropical weather. While the Atlantic hurricane season lasts from June 1st through November 30th, New Jersey’s storm activity is typically August through late October. (Superstorm Sandy moved onshore in New Jersey on October 29th, 2012.) As of May 20, 2021, NOAA is predicting another above-normal Atlantic hurricane season. Key threats from an approaching tropical storm or hurricane are wind, storm surge, flooding and the potential for tornadoes.

Before the Storm

  • Plan an evacuation route and make sure your family is familiar with it.
  • Remove or anchor outdoor furniture, umbrellas, potted plants, decorative items or other objects that could become airborne in high wind conditions.
  • Make sure flashlights are in good working condition. Have a supply of backup batteries.
  • Check your inventory of water and non-perishable foods. Don’t wait until the last minute to shop for groceries and other items. Only purchase items you and your family may need so others can also access them.
  • Fill your vehicles with gas.
  • In buildings where gas grills are permitted, have an extra supply of fuel.
  • It’s a good idea to have extra cash on hand since banks and ATM’s won’t be able to operate in the event of a power outage.
  • Keep your cell phone charged.
  • Frequently check for hurricane updates because the strength and path may change.
  • Lower refrigerator and freezer temperature settings.
  • Evacuate when directed by local officials and leave as soon as possible to avoid potential traffic backups.
  • Move cars parked on flood-prone streets to higher ground.
  • Check with neighbors, seniors and others who may need additional helppreparing for the storm.

During the Storm

  • Stay inside and away from windows.
  • Continue to monitor local TV and radio stations for weather updates and information.
  • If you lose power, turn off all major appliances and electronic devices to avoid power surge damage when electricity is restored. Report power outages to Jersey Central Power and Light (1-888-544-4877) or visit firstenergycorp.com/outages_help/Report_Power_Outages.html.
  • If you lose power, try to minimize opening the refrigerator and freezer doors to avoid food spoilage for as long as possible.
  • Never use candles as a light source.
  • Never use a gas oven to warm your house.
  • Do not walk, swim or drive through flood waters. “Turn Around. Don’t Drown!”

After the Storm

  • Stay away from any downed electric wires.
  • Do not walk, swim or drive through flood waters. “Turn Around. Don’t Drown!”
  • Check in with your neighbors and seniors to see if they need any assistance.
  • Contact your insurance agent if your home or car suffered damage from the storm.

 

Additional Resources:

 

Definitions from the National Weather Service

Watches:

  • Storm Surge Watch: There is a possibility of life-threatening inundation from rising water moving inland from the shoreline somewhere within the specified area, generally within 48 hours.
  • Hurricane Watch: Hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or greater) are possible within your area. Because it may not be safe to prepare for a hurricane once winds reach tropical storm force, The NHC issues hurricane watches 48 hours before it anticipates tropical storm-force winds.
  • Tropical Storm Watch: Tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are possible within the specified area within 48 hours.

Warnings:

  • Storm Surge Warning: There is a danger of life-threatening inundation from rising water moving inland from the shoreline somewhere within the specified area, generally within 36 hours. If you are under a storm surge warning, check for evacuation orders from your local officials.
  • Hurricane Warning: Hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or greater) are expected somewhere within the specified area. NHC issues a hurricane warning 36 hours in advance of tropical storm-force winds to give you time to complete your preparations. All preparations should be complete. Evacuate immediately if so ordered.
  • Tropical Storm Warning: Tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are expected within your area within 36 hours.
  • Extreme Wind Warning: Extreme sustained winds of a major hurricane (115 mph or greater), usually associated with the eyewall, are expected to begin within an hour. Take immediate shelter in the interior portion of a well-built structure.