In less than a week, hurricane season will be in full swing. And if you aren’t prepared yet, you should probably start — Florida is likely to get hit.

At least that’s what nationally recognized experts say. Two Colorado State researchers predict there will be 14 “named” storms, seven hurricanes, and three major hurricanes from June 1 through November 30.

The researchers also forecast that Florida has a 39 percent chance of getting hit, up from the last century’s average of 31.  

A major hurricane includes Category 3’s and above. Almost a year ago, Hurricane Irma hit Florida, leaving most of the state without power and millions in damages.

Between Irma’s landfall and the time it took to clean up the debris, FAU closed for almost two weeks.

What FAU wants you to do before the next storm

The university’s Emergency Management Department has several key steps for students living in dorms before hurricane season starts:

• Have an evacuation plan that includes your “mode of transportation” and supplies for sheltering at a local shelter or traveling elsewhere (including supplies for your pet/service animal).
• Pay attention to local officials’ and FAU’s warnings and be ready to go if ordered.
• Decide how you’ll communicate with your family and notify your parents and/or guardian of your evacuation plan.
• Prepare your dorm room for evacuation by covering valuable items in plastic, keeping valuables off the floor to avoid water damage, closing your windows and blinds, and making sure all electrical appliances are turned off and unplugged.
• Have an emergency kit in your room with basic items such as non-perishable food, water, a flashlight, a radio, medications, a portable phone charger, and a can opener.

How to stay updated before an approaching storm

Whether you commute or live on campus, the department has several tips on how you can stay updated before a storm hits.

• Download the Owl Ready app, FAU’s safety and preparedness app that is available on the App Store and Google Play.
• Activate your “Government Alert” feature on your phone to receive real-time hurricane warnings, tornado warnings, etc.
• Monitor FAU’s homepage or advisory page regarding campus alerts and closures.
• Monitor local news and weather reports.

Here are the 21 potential Atlantic storms named so far:

Alberto           Helene       Oscar

Beryl               Isaac           Patty

Chris               Joyce          Rafael

Debby             Kirk             Sara

Ernesto           Leslie          Tony

Florence         Michael       Valerie

Gordon           Nadine         William

Alexander Rodriguez is the features editor of the University Press. For information regarding this or other stories, email [email protected] or tweet @AARodriguezz93