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The Official End of the 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season

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The Official End of the 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season

The 2022 Atlantic hurricane season has officially ended on November 30. Experts predicted that it would be another busy, above-normal hurricane season. And NOAA issued a La Niña Advisory at the beginning of the season predicting a potential very rare third consecutive La Niña, which has only ever occurred twice since 1950, when they started keeping records.

How Did the 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season Compare to Expert Predictions?

Let’s see how accurate the expert’s predictions were for the 2022 Atlantic hurricane season.

Colorado State University (CSU) 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season Predictions

The Colorado State University (CSU) Tropical Meteorology Project, a respected authority on hurricanes predicted the 2022 season to have:

  • 19 named storms
  • 9 hurricanes
  • 4 major hurricanes

NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season Predictions

NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, a division of the National Weather Service predicted the 2022 season to have:

  • 14-21 named storms
  • 6-10 hurricanes
  • 3-6 major hurricanes

2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season Storm Production

Predictions by both Colorado State University (CSU) and NOAA were a little high but definitely in the ballpark. As of November 30, 2022, the Atlantic hurricane season experienced:

  • 14 named storms
  • 8 hurricanes
  • 3 major hurricanes

Named Storms

This season cycled through the letter ‘N’ on the list of 2022 Atlantic Tropical Cyclone Names list. Named storms this season included: Alex, Bonnie, Colin, Danielle, Earl, Fiona, Gaston, Hermine, Ian, Julia, Karl, Lisa, Martin, and Nicole.

Hurricanes

Of the 14 named storms, just about half (8) grew to hurricane strength and 3 developed into major hurricanes (with winds reaching 111 mph or greater). The 2022 season started as one of the quietest in recent history. Not a single named storm formed in August for the first time in 25 years and only the third time since 1950. But after a rare, quiet period in August, hurricane activity ramped up quickly in September, with 7 named storms, including 2 of the major hurricanes.

Major Hurricanes

The first major hurricane of the season, Hurricane Fiona never reached the U.S. mainland, instead making landfall as a Category 1 storm on the Punta Tocon Peninsula of Puerto Rico. The other Category 1 storm was the last named storm of the season, Hurricane Nicole which did reach the U.S. mainland. Hurricane Nicole made landfall on November 10th along the east coast of Florida near Vero Beach.

Hurricane Ian

However, Hurricane Ian was by far the strongest and most dangerous major hurricane of the season. Initially it appeared Hurricane Ian was headed right toward the greater Tampa area, but instead made landfall 125 miles south as a Category 4 storm. Although our area didn’t experience the worst of the storm, it still did some damage around town with flooding and tropical storm-level wind gusts reaching up to 75mph.

End of Season Seawall Inspection and Repairs

With the 2022 hurricane season wrapping up, it’s an excellent time to have your seawall inspected for damage from hurricane Ian or just the normal wear and tear of a busy summer season. Get a head start on any needed seawall repairs now so you won’t have to rush around as the 2023 season approaches. It’ll be here before you know it.

For seawall inspection or repair services, complete the contact form to get in touch.

The 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season

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The 2022 Atlantic hurricane season officially kicks off today, June 1, 2022 and will run through the end of November. Learn what the experts are predicting for the 2022 Atlantic hurricane season.

The Colorado State University (CSU) Tropical Meteorology Project, a respected authority on hurricanes is predicting a busy Atlantic hurricane season in 2022. Here are the numbers:

  • 19 named storms
  • 9 hurricanes
  • 4 major hurricanes

NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, a division of the National Weather Service is predicting the 2022 Atlantic hurricane season to have:

  • 14-21 named storms
  • 6-10 hurricanes
  • 3-6 major hurricanes

Another Above-Average Hurricane Season in 2022

Meteorologists at NOAA are estimating a 65% chance of 2022 being another above-normal hurricane season. And this year is likely to have increased activity due to several climate factors, including:

  • Current conditions favoring La Niña
  • Above average sea surface temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea
  • Weaker tropical Atlantic trade winds
  • Enhanced West African monsoon season

La Niña Advisory (NOAA)

NOAA is maintaining a La Niña Advisory, saying that La Niña is favored to continue through the summer with a 59% chance of remaining into July, August, and September. There is also just over a 50% chance of La Niña persisting into the fall. And if La Niña lasts into the winter, we could see a very rare third consecutive La Niña, which has only ever occurred twice since 1950, when they started keeping records.

The continuation of La Niña signals the likelihood of stronger for longer and potentially more damaging hurricanes. Just take a look at the previous two La Niña hurricane seasons. The 2021 Atlantic hurricane season produced 21 named storms, the third most on record. While the prior season (2020), was a record-breaking season, with thirty named storms, including a record seven major hurricanes.

Are You Prepared for the 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season?

Knowing your hurricane risk and knowing your hurricane evacuation route are two of the most important items to check off of your list.

Pinellas County, Florida Hurricane Evacuation Zone Changes for 2022 Hurricane Season

Pinellas County, Florida recently updated hurricane evacuation zones for the 2022 hurricane season. This change has affected approximately 48K households – many of which were moved from a lower-risk zone to a higher-risk zone. To look up your evacuation zone or learn about evacuation zone changes visit the Pinellas County Storm Tools website page.

The Official End of the 2021 Atlantic Hurricane Season

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The 2021 Atlantic hurricane season officially ends on November 30, 2021. Experts predicted that it would be another active, above average hurricane season. Let’s see how accurate the expert’s predictions were and how it compares to previous seasons.

How Did the 2021 Atlantic Hurricane Season Compare to Expert Predictions?

The Colorado State University (CSU) Tropical Meteorology Project, a respected authority on hurricanes predicted an above-average 2021 Atlantic hurricane season. They predicted the 2021 Atlantic hurricane season to have:

  • 17 named storms
  • 8 hurricanes
  • 4 major hurricanes

The expert predictions by the Colorado State University (CSU) Tropical Meteorology Project forecasters were fairly accurate. As of November 30, 2021, the Atlantic hurricane season experienced:

  • 21 named storms
  • 7 hurricanes
  • 4 major hurricanes

2021 Atlantic Hurricane Season: Named Storms

There were 21 total named storms in 2021, which was 4 more named storms than the CSU experts predicted. These included: Ana, Bill, Claudette, Danny, Elsa, Fred, Grace, Henri, Ida, Julian, Kate, Larry, Mindy, Nicholas, Odette, Peter, Rose, Sam, Teresa, Victor, and Wanda.

2021 Atlantic Hurricane Season: Hurricanes and Major Hurricanes

Only 7 of the named storms reached hurricane strength, just 1 less than predicted. And four of those hurricanes reached major hurricane status, the exact number the CSU experts predicted. These included: Elsa, Grace, Henri, Ida, Larry, Nicholas, and Sam.

June 2021 Hurricanes

The 2021 Atlantic hurricane season started out early and busy with four major storms forming in June. Elsa was the fourth and last storm in June, and the first of the season to reach hurricane strength. Hurricane Elsa reached category 1 status crossing the Gulf of Mexico, but lost strength and was downgraded to a tropical storm before making landfall along the Florida panhandle.

August 2021 Hurricanes

In August, Grace was the second hurricane of the season, and the first major hurricane of the season, reaching category 3 strength during it’s 9 day track across the North Atlantic Ocean. Grace first impacted the Leeward Islands and Greater Antilles as a tropical storm before reaching hurricane status heading toward the Yucatán Peninsula. Grace rapidly intensified into a category 3 hurricane with winds reaching 125 mph before making landfall in Veracruz at peak intensity. Hurricane Grace was responsible for a total of 15 people losing their lives.

Another August hurricane, Henri reached category 1 storm status. And as Henri travelled northbound in the Atlantic Ocean, the hurricane missed making landfall along most of the Atlantic coastline until reaching New England.

Arriving at the end of August, Hurricane Ida was the strongest major storm of the season to make landfall, with maximum sustained winds of 150 mph, reaching category 4 status. Ida made landfall along the Louisiana coast, just south of New Orleans. There were 115 deaths and $65 billion in damage attributed to Hurricane Ida. This earned Hurricane Ida a place on the list of the top ten costliest hurricanes of all time.

September 2021 Hurricanes

Historically, September is typically one of the most active months, and 2021 was no exception. Of the 9 storms recorded in September, the majority (6) only reached tropical storm strength. But 3 went on to gain greater strength, reaching hurricane status. Nicholas was the first hurricane in September to make landfall in Texas as a category 1 hurricane.

Hurricane Larry bypassed making landfall in the United States altogether, gaining strength along the way and growing into a category 3 hurricane. But as Larry headed toward the coast of Canada, the hurricane lost strength, only making landfall in Newfoundland as a category 1 storm.

Sam, the last hurricane of September and the last of the official 2021 hurricane season, was the most powerful of the season. Hurricane Sam reached sustained winds of 155 mph, a category 4 status. Fortunately, Sam never made landfall before dissipating over the Atlantic Ocean.

How Does the 2021 Season Compare to Previous Seasons?

The average number of hurricanes each season (averaged out over 30 years):

  • 12 named storms
  • 6 hurricanes
  • 2 major hurricanes

When comparing the 2021 season to seasonal averages (above), the 2021 season was relatedly active. The 2021 season had 9 more named storms, 1 more hurricane, and two more major hurricanes than the average.

But the previous hurricane season (2020) was just the opposite. The 2020 season blew past predictions, breaking numerous records along the way. So, when compared to the previous hurricane season (2020), the 2021 hurricane season felt relatedly quiet.

Tampa Bay’s Seawall Inspection and Repair Experts, Gibson Marine Construction

Just because Tampa Bay and the surrounding communities were very fortunate this season, not suffering any direct hits by major storms, that doesn’t mean you can forego the annual seawall inspection and/or seawall repair process. There may still be damage, it just may be less visible to the naked eye.

The only way to ensure your seawall is safe and functioning properly is to have it inspected by knowledgeable experts, such as the Florida Certified Contractors at Gibson Marine Construction. Call or fill out the website contact form to schedule a seawall inspection and/or seawall repair services.

Is Your Seawall Ready for Hurricane Season?

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Most of the time, living on the Florida waterfront is a dream delivering amazing weather, beautiful views, and enviable access to the water just outside your door. But it can also leave you vulnerable to some of mother nature’s fury, often arriving in the form of a hurricane. Since we don’t know what this hurricane season may bring, being prepared for the worst is the best line of defense. Plus, knowing that your seawall could play a key role defending your property and (more importantly) your loved ones, you need to ensure it is in excellent condition.

How to Prepare Your Seawall So It’s Ready for Hurricane Season

There are a few simple steps you can take to get your seawall prepared to face hurricanes this season.

Inspect Your Seawall for Damage

Your seawall is only as strong as its weakest part. Start preparing your seawall for hurricane season by assessing its current condition. When inspecting your seawall for damage, look for:

  • Visible rust stains and where the stains are coming from.
  • Corrosion from being exposed to natural elements, such as wind and water, especially saltwater.
  • Signs of damage caused by the normal wear and tear of everyday use.
  • Space between slabs that appears to be widening or becoming misaligned.
  • Cracked, bowing, or leaning slabs.
  • Cracks in the seawall cap or any small chunks broken off of it.
  • Soil settling or any holes along the seawall.

Assess Changing Environmental Conditions Impacting Seawall Stability

Not all elements impacting the stability of a seawall are visible to the naked eye. Changes to the environment near a seawall can lead to a pressure imbalance, which could cause your seawall to fail. Some of the most common causes of seawall pressure imbalances include:

  • Changes to water flow patterns
  • Changes to your living space
  • Landscaping modifications

For more information on these common causes of seawall pressure imbalances, visit Part IV of our Seawall Failure Series.

Expand or Extend Your Seawall

With hurricanes staying stronger for longer, they have the potential to bring greater danger and destruction. Stronger for longer hurricanes can deliver more powerful storm surges where an unusual rise in water during a storm is pushed toward the shoreline by powerful, forceful winds. It can cause water to rise well above normal levels and bring more water further inland.

Storm surges can be one of the greatest threats to human life – even more so than the powerful hurricane winds. Surges can push a huge volume of water inland for many miles. The speed and force at which a storm surge arrives leaves little warning time for people to get to higher ground. Surges can cause lots of damage, demolish buildings, flood homes, wash away roads, etc. Within minutes, people can become stranded on rooftops or in vehicles, or worse – be injured or killed.

Stronger, longer, and taller seawalls provide better protection against storm surges. Expanding and/or extending your seawall helps better protect your loved ones and your property.

Seawall Inspection and Repair Services in Tampa Bay

If you are unsure of what to look for when assessing your seawall, or would just like some assistance, call the seawall experts at Gibson Marine Construction. We offer seawall inspection and repair services to help you get your seawall ready for hurricane season. Contact us to learn more.

Facing Stronger for Longer Hurricanes

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In a recent study conducted by Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University, researchers have concluded that hurricanes are staying “stronger for longer after hitting land.” Coastal property owners should take notice, as this can equate to more danger and property damage. Damage from a hurricane can happen a few different ways.

Hurricane Damage from Stronger Storm Surges

The rising water pushed toward the shore by forceful hurricane winds is called a storm surge. It can be a greater threat to human life – even more so than the powerful winds. And the crashing waves can cause severe damage to property, damaging boats, docks, and even buildings. With hurricanes staying stronger for longer, storm surges have the potential to become more violent, may cause water levels to rise and cause more damage.

Land Erosion and Land Loss Caused by Hurricanes

Hurricanes also cause damage via delivering torrential rains to an area. These severe rainstorms can cause rivers to flood, eroding the soil from the riverbanks. And torrential rains can create mudslides, leading to land loss and property damage. For example, scientists estimate that the amount of land lost due to hurricanes Katrina and Rita was approximately 73 square miles.

Seawalls and Retaining Walls Can Help Protect from Stronger for Longer Hurricanes

As of yet there is no way to stop a hurricane, but property owners can take steps to protect their land by investing in a seawall or retaining wall. They can serve as the first line of defense to protect property and help curb some of the damage caused by hurricanes. As hurricanes get stronger for longer, even property owners who have never considered a seawall or retaining may want to revisit the topic.

If you’re thinking about investing in a seawall or retaining wall, talk to our marine construction experts at Gibson Marine Construction. We’d be happy to discuss the benefits and how to best protect your property from hurricane damage caused by stronger for longer hurricanes. Contact Gibson Marine Construction today to learn more.

The 2020 Atlantic Hurricane Season

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Usually, by the time hay bales become standard décor, corn fields turn into mazes, and every other billboard displays an ad for a haunted house – we can count on the Atlantic hurricane season to begin winding down. But there hasn’t been much that has been “usual” about this year (not to mention the COVID-19 pandemic too)!

An Active, Above Average Hurricane Season

Even before the hurricane season began, experts were predicting an active hurricane season. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Climate Prediction Center, a division of the National Weather Service predicted a 60% chance of an above-normal hurricane season. An average hurricane season typically produces around 12 named storms. And an above average season is predicted to produce 13-19 named storms, 6-10 of which become hurricanes, and 3-6 major hurricanes (category 3, 4 or 5 storms).

A Record Breaking Hurricane Season in 2020

The 2020 Atlantic hurricane season has blown past predictions – making it one of the most active hurricane seasons in recent history (since the current high-activity era began in 1995).

On Tuesday, September 22, 2020 – summer officially ended, and the 2020 Atlantic hurricane season broke its biggest record yet. This year (2020) had the highest number of named storms (23) ever recorded in a season through the end of summer. That’s 6 more than the previous record of 17 named storms in 2005. It’s also only the second time in history (2005 was the first time) the National Hurricane Center (NHC) ran out of names and had to resort to using Greek letters to continue to name storms.

More records broken this (2020) hurricane season include:

  • The first record of the 2020 hurricane season was broken on June 2, 2020 when Tropical Storm Cristobal developed, making Cristobal the earliest forming “C” named storm of any season. This was 3 days earlier than the previous record on file, held by Tropical Storm Colin (2016).
  • And, more named storms, designated by specific alphabet “letters” have formed earlier this year than ever before. By the end of summer, 23 storms had already been named, with 20 of those storms now having the earliest formation date on record for their specific storm “letter”. Arthur, Bertha and Dolly are the exceptions.
  • Plus, September is the season’s busiest month. September 2020 saw 10 named storms, a new record for the most named storms formed during a single month. The previous record was 8 storms which occurred in 2002, 2007, and 2010.

The 2020 hurricane season has tied a couple records too. Including:

  • A long-standing record – the record for the most named storms to form in a single day. An exceedingly rare occurrence, this has only happened twice since the hurricane center began keeping reliable records in 1851. The first documented occurrence was on August 15, 1893. Three generically named storms, numbered as 4, 5, and 6 all formed on the very same day. Then, it happened again recently, on September 18, 2020. Tropical Storm Wilfred, Subtropical Storm Alpha and Tropical Storm Beta all formed on the same day tying the record for the most.
  • When Tropical Storm Beta made landfall on September 22, 2020 as the 9th named storm to make landfall in the contiguous United States in one season, it tied the previous 1916 Atlantic hurricane season record. But there is still plenty of time left; the 2020 hurricane season could likely end up overtaking this record too.

Florida Seawall Inspection and Seawall Repair Services

Tampa area residents and the communities along Florida’s west coast have been truly fortunate this hurricane season. Most storms have been heading up the eastern seaboard, and those entering the Gulf of Mexico have been making landfall farther west.

But just because your seawall hasn’t suffered a direct hit from a hurricane or heavy tropical storms this year, doesn’t mean you can forgo the annual seawall inspection and/or repair process. With such an active hurricane season, there may still be damage; it just may be less obvious to the naked eye. Our Florida Certified Contractors at Gibson Marine Construction offer seawall construction, inspection, and repair services. Let our trusted team of marine construction experts help keep your seawall safe and functioning properly. Call or complete the contact form to learn more.

Hurricane Dorian

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Residents of Florida: Prepare for Hurricane Dorian.

Forecasters are warning that the storm is already “a dangerous Category 3 hurricane, defined as sustained winds of at least 111 mph.” And it will be near or even possibly make landfall over the Florida peninsula just in time for the Labor Day holiday weekend.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency for 26 counties in the possible path of the hurricane.

You can view the State of Florida Executive Order #19-189 here. It only takes one hurricane or tropical storm to cause damage, destruction, and/or devastation. The team at Gibson Marine Construction hopes that everyone properly prepares for the hurricane, as best possible, and urges people to follow the government’s safety, preparedness, and/or evacuation recommendations. For tips on establishing an emergency plan for your family or how to prepare your property for a hurricane, please check out our 2019 Hurricane Season article here.

2018 Hurricane Season: Make an Emergency Plan

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Preparing for the 2018 Hurricane Season: How to Make an Emergency Plan

Forecastors at the Colorado State University Tropical Meteorology Project (CSU), a leading authority on the topic are predicting another busy hurricane season – slightly above historical averages. Prepare for the 2018 hurricane season by making an emergency plan.

There are four key components to an emergency plan. These include:

  • Determine how to stay updated on the latest emergency alerts and warnings.
  • Prepare a shelter plan – Create an in-home shelter plan and an off-site shelter plan.
  • Map out the best evacuation route so you can leave quickly should you need to.
  • Make a family/household communication plan.

Stay Updated on the Latest Emergency Alerts and Warnings

Hurricane-related Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) are sent by state and local public safety officials, the National Weather Service, or even the President of the United States. WEAs look similar to text messages on your cell phone but usually have a unique sound and vibration, repeated twice. They are usually short messages and will include: the type and time of the alert, instructions on any action you should take, and which agency issued the alert.

The Emergency Alert System (EAS) is a national public warning system. During an emergency it broadcasts alerts via satellite providers, cable television systems, etc. to communicate emergency information to the public. You can find additional information about the National Emergency Alert System (EAS) on the FEMA website at: https://www.fema.gov/emergency-alert-system.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio All Hazards is a nationwide network of radio stations broadcasting continuous weather information directly from the nearest National Weather Service office. Visit www.nws.noaa.gov/nwr/ to learn more about the NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards network and to find a network station in your area.

Create an Emergency Shelter Plan

Communicating during an emergency can often be difficult if not impossible. To help keep your loved ones safe, you should put at least two emergency shelter plans in place: a plan for sheltering in place in your home, and a plan for evacuating to a nearby shelter.

Sheltering in Place

Often the best option for finding shelter is staying right where you are. Designate an area in your home where all family members should gather in case of emergency. A basement or storm shelter is usually best but if that’s not an option, and interior room (with no windows) or hallway is best. Preparing a disaster kit and storing it in there is also highly recommended.

Finding a Shelter

When sheltering in your home is not the best option, such as when the local authorities recommend or mandate an evacuation, you should put an alternative shelter plan in place.

Here are a few options:

  • Talk to friends and relatives to see if you can stay with them in case of an emergency.
  • Or create a list of hotels/motels to contact and make a reservation should evacuation seem likely.
  • Research mass care shelter options in your area. (Keep in mind pets are often not welcome at these facilities.)
  • Search for open shelters by texting SHELTER + a zip code to 43362 (4FEMA). Standard rates apply.

Map Out Your Best Evacuation Route

Plan how you will leave and where you will go in case of an emergency evacuation. Plan ahead by mapping out and documenting a primary and backup evacuation route. Keep in mind storms can often knock out services such as cell phone service and/or GPS – so keep an old school, paper map handy with your evacuation plans.

If you have a car, and an evacuation seems likely, keep your gas tank full. Fuel can sometimes be difficult to find during an emergency as stores can run out or close down in the area. A full tank can get you further out of the evacuation area faster and further away from the evacuation area where more fueling options are more readily available.

Put a Family/Household Communication Plan in Place

We can’t emphasize this enough: communicating during an emergency can often be difficult if not impossible. Put a family or household communication plan in place before an emergency to help get your loved ones reunited as quickly as possible.

Here are a few communication guidelines to follow:

  • Choose an out of town friend or relative to use as a point of contact. Send all messages through that designated person.
  • Designate a predetermined meeting place for all family members to go if you/they are unable to return home.
  • Keep important phone numbers and emergency contacts with you at all times. Make sure all members of the family, especially children have this information.
  • Don’t forget about social media. You can communicate a message to loved ones via a social channel and can even mark yourself as safe on Facebook to let friends and family know about your status.

Stay Safe this Hurricane Season

As a Florida area business and seawall builder, we have seen first hand the damage a hurricane can do. We hope these tips are helpful and that all our friends, neighbors, customers, etc., – everyone – stays safe this 2018 hurricane season.

And if you are interested in learning more about our services, and how a seawall could help protect you and your property this hurricane season, give us a call.

The 2018 Hurricane Season

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The 2018 Hurricane Season: When is it? What should I expect?

The 2018 hurricane season is upon us. Arm yourself with information in preparation for the 2018 hurricane season.

When is the 2018 Hurricane Season in Florida?

Hurricane season in Florida officially begins on June 1st and runs through November 30th. But most storms typically hit during peak season, between August and October.

Alberto attempted to kick the hurricane season off early, making landfall over the Florida Panhandle on Memorial Day weekend, but luckily Alberto didn’t gain enough strength and only made it into the subtropical storm category.

2018 Hurricane Season Predictions

Forecastors at the Colorado State University Tropical Meteorology Project (CSU), a leading authority on the topic are predicting another busy hurricane season. They predict the 2018 hurricane season to be slightly above historical averages. Here are the numbers:

The average number of hurricanes each season (averaged out over 30 years):

  • 12 named storms
  • 6 hurricanes
  • 2 major hurricanes.

CSU is predicting the 2018 hurricane season to have:

  • 14 named storms
  • 7 hurricanes
  • 3 major hurricanes.

 

How the 2018 Hurricane Season Compares to 2017

Although CSU predicts an above average hurricane season, they are predicting less activity than the previous year.

Here are the numbers from 2017:

    • 18 named storms
    • 10 hurricanes
    • 6 major hurricanes

How to Prepare for the 2018 Hurricane Season

Being prepared for the 2018 hurricane season can make a big impact on how you spend your summer in Florida. Proper preparedness upfront can make clean up and repairs a lot easier down the line.

Review Your Florida Homeowners Insurance Policy

Take some time to sit down and review the details of your Florida Homeowners Insurance Policy. You may need to consider increasing your level of coverage if:

      • You made any improvements to your home or property since you last reviewed the policy.
      • You’ve made any expensive purchases, such as jewelry, antiques or art. Make sure all documents have been submitted to ensure these items are specifically listed and covered.

Also keep in mind that certain types of flood damage is often not covered by your homeowners insurance policy. If you live on or near a body of water, you may want to consider adding a flood insurance policy to make sure you have protection from all the types of water damage hurricanes can cause.

If You Have an Existing Seawall, Have it Inspected

Seawalls are a great way to help protect your property from some of the damage a hurricane can cause. But a seawall is only as strong as its weakest part.

Regular seawall inspections by seawall service professionals, such as the experts at Gibson Marine Construction, can identify areas in need of repair. Having these areas repaired and/or replaced will help stave off the misfortune of the more costly damage a busy hurricane season could bring.

Install a Seawall to Protect from Hurricane Damage

If you live on the waterfront and don’t have a seawall, you may want to consider having one installed to help protect your property from hurricane or other water damage. Call Gibson Marine Construction to learn how a seawall can help protect you and your property this hurricane season.

Tips for Preparing Your Boat, Dock, and Boat Lift for a Major Storm

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It’s been a record 10 years since the state of Florida has suffered a direct hit from a major hurricane. The state’s official hurricane season started on June 1, and with months to go until the season officially ends on November 30, there’s no better time than now to learn how to prepare your waterfront property for a potential tropical storm or hurricane.

Florida possesses some of the nation’s greatest beaches, beautiful waterways, and excellent offshore fishing. The past decade of relative calm on both coasts and a population growth throughout the state of 2.5 million new residents means that many of the state’s boaters are either rusty or inexperienced altogether in preparing for a storm. In order to protect your boat, dock, and boat lift, keep these tips in mind as hurricane season continues.

 

Preparing Your Boat

Assuming you have enough warning and the time to do so, the best course of action you can take with your boat is to remove it from your boat lift and store it away from the potential storm surge in a safe place. If you cannot remove your boat, raise the dock lift as high as you can in an attempt to keep the boat above the storm surge, and don’t forget to secure your boat to the lift. Also, remove plugs from your boat so water can drain out and not overload your lift.

If you cannot remove your boat and your boat lift’s cradle doesn’t rise high enough to keep it above the potential storm surge, there are extra steps to take. It is still advisable to raise your boat as high as the boat lift goes, secure your boat to the lift, and use long ropes to secure your boat to anchor points. Even if the storm surge lifts your boat off the boat lift, the long anchor ropes will help keep it near your property.

 

Preparing Your Boat Lift

For those who were able to remove the boat from the boat lift, the best course of action during preparation is to lower the cradle on the lift all the way to the bottom. Leaving the cradle in the water prevents it from swaying the winds or being lashed harshly by waves in a storm surge, thus protecting the lift itself and the dock.

If your boat lift has a low-profile installation, it is possible the tide surge could bring corrosive saltwater right into your boat lift motors, switches, and covers. Remove these items from your lift and store in a safe, dry place. Those with a sealed direct-drive system should remove the gear unit as well. Before you do though, lower the cable down to its lowest point as the cable will free spool back down regardless. Last but not least, tighten all the nuts and bolts on the lift so you don’t lose any small parts during a potential storm.

Saltwater that streams in during the storm surge collects inside your sealed housing and freezes up the gears, and can result in costly replacement and repair costs to get your boat lift operating smoothly again after the storm. Follow these steps in the event that the state’s decade-long winning streak ends this year, and you’ll be prepared to weather the storm!

 


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Clearwater, FL 33765
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