Positive Parenting: Keep Your Family Safe in the Storm
The town of Fammouth, Massachusetts The Atlantic hurricane season, which lasts for five months and during which we closely monitor the tropical Atlantic, officially begins on June 1st. Nine of the 19 storms that forecasters estimate will develop into hurricanes this season, and four of them will intensify to category 3 or higher. That is higher than the 30-year average for storms and hurricanes. Although coastal residents are used to bracing for these severe weather phenomena, it’s important to keep in mind that a hurricane’s effects can be felt much beyond the shore. Last year, when Hurricane Helene unleashed fatal floods as far inland as the North Carolina mountains, we witnessed that firsthand. Today, we’ll concentrate on the proactive measures parents may take to make sure their families are ready for anything this season may bring—not in a panic.
An active hurricane season is predicted as the tropical Atlantic heats up once more. These hurricanes might be stronger than normal. The arctic’s fast warming is a major contributing factor.
“We are contributing to a 25–40% worsening of global warming,” said Jennifer Francis, an atmospheric scientist at the Woodwell Climate Research Center.
Darker ocean surfaces absorb more heat from the sun as a result of the melting arctic ice. Ocean temperatures are rising as a result of this.
Francis clarified that hurricanes are fueled by the heat of the water.
No matter where you reside, it’s crucial for parents to be organized and not panic.
According to Francis, the climate problem is having varying effects on different groups.
Because of this, every family’s plan will be unique. However, a communication strategy with an out-of-state contact and a variety of communication channels, such as satellite phones and walkie-talkies, should be part of every plan. It also entails being aware of primary and secondary evacuation routes and zones, as well as pet-specific preparations. Lastly, in addition to the usual water, food, medicine, and radio, it needs a complete emergency pack that includes water purification, dietary-considered food, a complete first-aid kit, solar chargers, battery-operated headlamps, cash, and water-sealed copies of important documents. Your family will feel safer and more in control when the storm hits if you take some quick preparation measures.
No matter where you live, it’s critical to prepare for hurricane season. Experts warn us that, in addition to immediate preparation, tackling the underlying causes of climate change—by decreasing our dependency on fossil fuels and safeguarding natural carbon-absorbing ecosystems like forests and wetlands—is essential to minimizing the long-term effects on our weather and future.
