Forecasters Predict Another Active 2020 Atlantic Hurricane Season
For months now the US has been dealing with a pandemic that’s tested the response capabilities of our emergency agencies like never-before. To make matters even worse forecasters are predicting another active hurricane season in the Atlantic Ocean.
And although emergency managers are trained to handle multiple disasters at once, dealing with a major landfalling hurricane during a simultaneous health emergency presents unique challenges.
Expect Up to 20 Major Storms this Year
The annual Atlantic hurricane season officially kicks off June 1st, with peak storm activity normally seen between August and October. During an average year, the Atlantic Ocean produces 12 named storms, six hurricanes and three major hurricanes of Category 3 or above.
But the last three years have been anything but normal. Since 2016 there have already been 47 named storms, 12 major hurricanes and six Category 5 hurricanes- and this year’s hurricane season is just getting started.
Based on a recent report from CBS News, hurricane experts at several highly respected US climate centers are forecasting anywhere from 16 to 20 major storms this year.
Why the Uptick in Hurricane Activity?
Those predictions are based on two important factors. For one, sea surface temperatures are now elevated in the eastern Atlantic. As that circulating heated water combines with the warm waters normally found in the Gulf of Mexico, Bahamas region and western Caribbean, it increases the likelihood for stronger storms. Surprisingly, the second reason lies several thousand miles away in the Pacific Ocean.
Currently, sea surface temperatures in the east-central Pacific are above normal, a pattern that’s called El Nino. During an El Nino cycle the extra energy that’s created travels in atmospheric winds and eventually reaches the Atlantic. Once there, that energy tends to weaken developing tropical systems, resulting in fewer hurricanes.
But if the Pacific’s waters cool off, a phenomenon known as La Nina, it has the opposite effect on storm activity in the Atlantic, which increases the likelihood for more severe storms. Based on weather models, researchers say that a La Nina pattern is very much possible during the 2020 hurricane season- and that’s not good news for those living in coastal regions.
Hurricane Relief Efforts Need Fuel
As the storm approaches, COViID-19 will add additional complications to disaster efforts. In the hurricane’s aftermath trucks carrying out-of-state utility repair crews, along with food, clothing and medical supplies from disaster aid groups, will flood the area. Due to social distancing requirements, companies coordinating field operations, to support the disaster, may also need to set up multiple basecamps to adhere to social distancing guidelines. Keeping emergency responders safe during the pandemic while allowing for quick/efficient response is critical for all disaster relief operations.
One thing that all these hurricane relief efforts have in common is the need for fuel- and
lots of it- to power generators, vehicles, equipment and aircraft. And that’s going to take more
logistical planning, emergency fuel trucks, drivers, fueling stations and above-ground storage tanks. While facing two disasters at once business continuity plans will be stretched to the limit if plans do not adequately address the current environment. SFS can provide needed guidance to help tweak existing plans so that they can be quickly/effectively implemented during this storm season when businesses might be addressing both a pandemic and storm damage.
SFS Stands Ready to Answer the Call
If predictions hold true, the 2020 Atlantic hurricane season is going to be a busy one. Since 2006 Specialty Fuel Services has been answering the call of clients from all walks of life with our disaster-tested emergency fuel supply, delivery, transfer and on-site fuel storage solutions. We’ve also helped numerous clients prepare for upcoming emergencies with our disaster recovery planning and advisement services.
If we can help your business, agency or organization get ready from the next storm, call SFS today at: 1(866) 445-5508 or email us now at: [email protected]!