Byrd's Eye View

It's that time of year again!

The Atlantic hurricane season begins June 1st and ends November 30th.

Every year, we get pumped up over the outlooks issued by various agencies and experts in the field of tropical meteorology.  This year, we add North Carolina State University to the list of institutions throwing their hats in the ring.

Here's how they compare:

Dr. William Gray:  17 named storms, 9 hurricanes, 5 major hurricanes

NOAA:  13-17 named storms, 7-10 hurricanes, 3-5 major hurricanes

NCSU:  12-14 named storms, 8-9 hurricanes, 4-5 major hurricanes

Average:  9.6 named storms, 5.9 hurricanes, 2.3 major hurricanes

I put little value on any prediction for the number of landfalling storms.  For purposes of being prepared, we all should be at any time.  It only takes one storm to call it a disastrous year.

If you are headed to the coast:

• Stay up-to-date on the forecast before and during your trip;
• Know your evacuation route;
• Heed orders to evacuate if they are issued;
• Keep you gas tank as full as possible -- evacuations take time and you'll avoid long lines at the pumps;
• Have an emergency kit with extra batteries, a radio, fresh water (one gallon per person minimum), non-perishable food, sunscreen, medication and cash.