Beach communities ready for “active” storm season

Sussex County officials urge residents to prepare following the forecast for a more active than usual hurricane season.

It was a busy winter for workers at the Sussex County Emergency Operations Center, with several major snow storms that stranded drivers and caused significant damage to some structures.

Now, as the official hurricane season gets underway next week, emergency officials are gearing up for what could be an even busier summer season.  The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is calling for an 85% chance of an above normal hurricane season.  That prediction includes 14 to 23 named storms, 8 to 14 hurricanes, and 3 to 7 major hurricanes.

That forecast is part of the reason officials at Delaware’s beach communities are urging residents and visitors to make their plans now for a possible hurricane.  Emergency Operations Center Director, Joseph Thomas says the natural beauty of Sussex County’s beaches come at a price, and that price is the risk of storms.  “Unfortunately, some people have a tendency to forget this.  Coastal areas are one major storm away from  disaster, so it’s imperative to always be ready,” Thomas says.

Among recommendations for residents and visitors, make an evacuation plan and prepare a family disaster kit.  That kit should include a three-day supply of water, non-perishable foods, medicine and other emergency items.

Emergency evacuation routes are detailed on the county’s website, SussexCountyDE.gov.