Late in Atlantic Hurricane Season, the Gulf Region Prepares for Hurricane Michael
Arising later in this year’s Atlantic Hurricane season, which runs from June 1 – November 30, Hurricane Michael is quickly approaching the Gulf Region. The storm strengthened into a hurricane on Monday and according to the latest updates from the National Hurricane Center (NHC), Michael has intensified to a Category 2 storm on the Saffir-Simpson Scale. The NHC currently forecasts that the center of the hurricane will approach the Florida Panhandle by Wednesday morning. Additionally, the NHC’s current data shows Michael’s maximum sustained winds reaching 110 miles per hour and anticipates a major hurricane at landfall.
NOAA National Hurricane Center Hurricane Michael Forecast Cone as of 10/09/18 at 11:00 am EST
Heavy rainfall and life-threatening storm surges are expected to begin arriving along portions of the Florida coastline and greater Gulf Region in advance of the storm. Storm surge watches and warnings have been issued along the Gulf Region as seen on the map below:
NOAA National Hurricane Center Hurricane Michael Storm Surge Watches and Warnings as of 10/09/18 at 5:00 am EST
The NHC predicts that the heavy rains brought on by Hurricane Michael could cause dangerous flash-flooding across areas of the Southeast.
In anticipation of the hurricane’s landfall, Governor Kay Ivey of Alabama and Governor Rick Scott of Florida have declared states of emergency, for the entire state of Alabama and 35 counties in Florida, respectively. Additionally, voluntary and mandatory evacuations have been issued for communities across Florida. The NHC and FEMA are encouraging residents in the path of the storm to finish preparations today and heed advice of local officials as Hurricane Michael approaches the coast.
As Hurricane #Michael approaches land, make sure you have multiple ways to stay informed & charge devices now.
? NOAA weather radio
? Weather alerts on your phone https://t.co/vHH7oWoK4X
? Social media: follow local officials & @NWS offices https://t.co/mpqvfg6AYv pic.twitter.com/KBRTnOAS1a— FEMA (@fema) October 9, 2018
Hagerty will continue to monitor Michael’s movements and provide critical updates on Disaster Discourse this week. If you are in the path of the storm, please seek guidance from your state and local officials.
Resources:
Below is a list of information resources to be prepared for hurricanes and hazardous weather:
Hagerty Consulting is an emergency management consulting firm that helps clients prepare for and recover from disasters. Established in 2001, Hagerty’s work includes some of the nation’s largest recovery and preparedness projects in more than 30 states, including 9/11, Hurricane Katrina, and Hurricane Sandy. The firm is (and has been) consistently recognized throughout the industry for its innovative thinking, client-centric service, and the superior results it delivers to every project. Hagerty professionals reside in all 10 FEMA regions; the firm’s offices are in Evanston, Illinois (corporate headquarters); Austin, Texas; and Washington, D.C. Learn more about how our Recovery and Preparedness Divisions can help you this hurricane season.