While the official start to the 2023 hurricane season was a couple of months ago on June 1, it’s not until August and September when we see hurricane conditions really ramp up in South Mississippi. Remember, Hurricane Katrina blew through on August 29, 2005.
The peak of the Atlantic hurricane season is September 10, with most activity occurring between mid-August and mid-October, according to Colorado State University’s Phil Klotzbach, who is responsible for the seasonal Atlantic hurricane forecasts issued during the peak months between August and October.
“Hurricanes need warm ocean water to thrive,” said Klotzbach. As a general rule, surface water temperatures above 80 degrees Fahrenheit are prime hurricane fuel. Water warms slower than air, so while temperatures on land reach a peak in July, water temperatures have a delayed peak in September and October. So, hurricanes obviously prefer bath water.
Fifteen named storms or major hurricanes are predicted to make landfall during the 2023 season. The Colorado State University team projected seven hurricanes, three of which they predict will become major hurricanes.
While you should be storm prepared from the onset, here’s a quick refresher of items you need to have on hand for the remainder of the season, just in case you haven’t started thinking about what you might need to gather.
Many in the Greater Hattiesburg area were without power and other necessities for a number of weeks following Katrina, which taught many a valuable lesson or two. In the 18 years since, many have become lax and with each year that passes with no storm, procrastinate about gathering the goods they’ll need.
Also, keep in mind that this season will also be impacted by an El Niño, where jet streams tend to steer these tropical systems. So, even if there ends up being more storms, it doesn’t mean that’s a sign of a more intense hurricane season for the Gulf of Mexico.
Prepare early, well before the storm, and stay prepared throughout the season.
Take three important steps ─ get a kit, make a plan, and be informed.
Be Prepared
Being prepared means that you:
Know what hazards, like tornadoes or floods, are likely to happen in your community. Have plans in place so that you and your loved ones know how to respond. Have a way to monitor emergency conditions in your area. Have emergency skills, such as CPR and first aid. Have emergency supplies, like food, water
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