Tropical Storm Danny was the fourth named storm of the 2021 hurricane season. Danny formed off the coast of South Carolina Monday and by 3 p.m. was strong enough to become a named storm. Danny made landfall in South Carolina and weakened becoming a tropical depression expected to bring heavy rainfall to coastal South Carolina and Georgia, and inland across Georgia and into Alabama.
Hurricane season officially began June 1 and goes until the end of November. However, 2021 is yet another year for supposed climate changes has allowed for the formation of names storms prior to June 1.
Tropical Storm Ana formed ten days before the official start of the 2021 Atlantic hurricane season, making 2021 the seventh consecutive year in which a tropical or subtropical cyclone formed before the official start of the season.
Liberty County Emergency Management Director Robert Dodd said the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s climate prediction center is predicting another above-normal Atlantic hurricane season.
“Forecasters predict a 60 percent chance of an above-normal season, a 30 percent chance of a near-normal season, and a 10 percent chance of a below-normal season,” Dodd said. “We have had four named storms already this year. We ask that the residents of Liberty County plan now in the event of severe weather.”
Dodd said early preparations will help ease the stress when a pending hurricanes approaches. Taking steps now ensures your family and your property will be ready to weather the storm
“Please don't wait till the last minute to get your valuables and necessities in order, by that time it may be too late,” Dodd said. “Having a Disaster Supply Kit will help with some of the essentials and may even save a life.”
Dodd said Liberty County has two evacuation zones, A and B. He said it is important to know which zone you live in.
This way when your area is given the order to evacuate from a reputable source such as the National Weather Service / National Hurricane Center, Local / State Officials, and media do so by your appropriate zone.
Once you evacuate, you’ll need a re-entry pass to return home after a storm and when allowed to do so.
The Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency will coordinate the process post-storm so that essential workers can make the areas safe for your return home
Re-entry permits are issued by GEMA/HS to control the number of people returning to the affected area.
“Remember that every storm is unique and focus on the impacts, flooding is the number one killer from tropical systems,” Dodd said. “Follow us on our Facebook page for helpful information and updates from the National Hurricane Center.”
Dodd suggested the following in preparing for this year’s season:
Disaster Supply Kit:
Water-at least a 3-day supply; one gallon per person per day.
Food-at least a 3-day supply of non-perishable, easy-to-prepare food
Flashlight/Extra Batteries
Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
First aid kit
Medications (7-day supply) and medical items (hearing aids with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, syringes, cane)
Multi-purpose tool
Sanitation and personal hygiene items
Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies)
Cell phone with chargers
Family and emergency contact information
Extra cash
Emergency blanket
Map(s) of the area
Baby supplies (bottles, formula, baby food, diapers)
Pet supplies (collar, leash, ID, food, carrier, bowl). Don't forget your Pets
Tools/supplies for securing your home
Extra set of car keys and house keys
Extra clothing, hat and sturdy shoes
Rain gear/Insect repellent and sunscreen
Camera for photos of damage
For more information on hurricane prep and to apply for a re-entry permit visit: https://gema.georgia.gov/plan-prepare/ready-georgia