A strange and unusual hurricane season

Here we are midway through September and feeling grateful that we have been spared any severe storms for this hurricane season. The tropics are just starting to look active, and at this writing (September 13) there is our first notable Atlantic “blob” heading for the Caribbean islands. Good thoughts for this storm to fizzle out as it meets our first “cool” front traversing the middle US.

In June, we reminded you to start organizing for the season. Water stocks, non-perishable food items, medications, baby needs, batteries and perhaps a weather alert radio were some of the suggested items.

In August, we turned our attention to “fur family” members and their needs. Food, medications and micro-chipping were among the items to be considered. Microchipping is an inexpensive way to make sure you can readily be reunited with your beloved pet if an unexpected separation were to occur. A contingency plan that identifies a shelter that would accept you and your pet, should the unthinkable happen, might be a helpful thought.

This month I would like to suggest a few ways to further prepare should a storm look as though it might approach our area. Trees downing power lines are much of the damage we tend to have in Gainesville and surrounding areas. We, thankfully, most often get several days’ notice of an impending storm. Sometimes it seems to take “forever” for the storm to reach us amidst much speculating and watching of predicted paths. I tend to take this time and make “chunks” of ice using a 2–3 quart pitcher to tuck into the empty spots in my freezer. These big ice chunks, when placed in a gallon Ziplock baggie, can go a long way in keeping items cool in the fridge/freezer when packed in around food or can be used in a cooler as well. You can also use your washing machine to hold ice chunks and food items if you lack a cooler or need more space. Should you not need the ice chunks (best case scenario) you can use them to do laundry or water plants after all danger has passed.

I want to remind you all of Mike’s Weather Page, as a good source for storm information. Mike has received numerous awards and recognition for his service to the greater Florida community in weather related events. He really enjoys watching the weather and sharing his knowledge. Here are links below to his pages: https://spaghettimodels.com/default.htm https://www.facebook.com/mikesweatherpage

If you would like a call from the UCG Emergency Volunteer Phone Tree about any hurricane warnings issued for the Gainesville area, please email Shanna at shannas@ucgainesville.org so she can add your name to the list.

Plan ahead, stay aware and informed!

Elise Lee

Co-Chair, Emergency Volunteer Phone Tree