Today, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced its initial outlook for the 2022 Atlantic hurricane season.
The season, which runs June 1st through November 30th, is predicted to be above-normal, producing a forecasted 14 to 21 storms, partly due to an ongoing La Niña and above-average Atlantic temperatures–according to NOAA.
Philadelphia not only experiences damage from hurricanes and their remnants but also from tropical storms and thunderstorms that increase the City’s risk of flooding, tornadoes, hail, and wind damage. In the last two years, neighborhoods across Philadelphia, including Eastwick, Manayunk, Center City, South Philadelphia, Germantown, Fishtown, and the Far Northeast, have been impacted by, and continue to recover from, flooding and tornadoes.
“The Office of Emergency Management works not only to respond to damaging severe weather–but also to ensure partners, businesses, and residents are prepared year-round,” said Dominick Mireles, Director, Office of Emergency Management. “Our office reviewed and updated the City’s Hazard Mitigation Plan and Severe Weather Plan, along with meeting partners to understand hazards the city faces and how we can be prepared. The public also plays a critical role in our preparedness plans. We stress the importance of updating your emergency plans, checking your insurance, and taking steps to mitigate and reduce storm risks around your property.”
Tropical storms can cause major damage to homes and property if residents and businesses are not prepared and connected to important information. Just last year, over 44,200 residents and businesses were approved for federal aid by FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration after Hurricane Ida impacted the state. Many people had to deal with clean-up, repair, and replacement on their property. In extreme cases, entire homes needed to be rebuilt, and businesses closed permanently.
The Philadelphia Office of Emergency Management urges residents and businesses to prepare for severe storms, not only for Atlantic hurricane season but year-round:
Stay Aware. Get storm information and emergency details from the City. Text READYPHILA to 888-777 for free text alerts or visit OEM’s website at www.phila.gov/ready to customize your free text or emails, including flood forecasts on area waterways.
Be Prepared. Assess your flood risk, give yourself an insurance check-up, know severe weather terms, and be ready for flooding, including shelter-in-place and evacuation plans.
Get Connected. Join OEM’s Community Preparedness team and get monthly newsletters, preparedness workshops, and features straight from our office.
Access Resources. Find helpful flooding info all in one place, including the Guide to Flooding in Philadelphia from the City’s Flood Risk Management Task Force.
