The 2019 Atlantic hurricane season is underway, officially beginning June 1 and ending November 30.

This year’s forecast calls for 13 named storms, five of which are expected to become hurricanes and of which two are forecasted to be Category 3 or higher. Last year, there were 15 named storms and eight that became hurricanes, with two Category 3 or higher. Hurricane Michael hit the Panhandle in October, decimating areas that are still recovering from severe damage.

Levy County Emergency Management recently conducted its annual disaster recovery meeting to address the latest season and go over plans. The point was made there is no correlation between the forecast and impact to our area, since any storms that develop might not pose a threat, or there could be one direct impact from an intense hurricane.

Regardless, preparation is critical, especially for businesses. Having plans for storage of vital records and documents, as well as recovery once an event has passed could save considerable time and money. One key website, www.floridadisaster.biz, can help you prepare with disaster planning toolkits, reentry procedure information and other resources.

Emergency Management also has a variety of sites to provide useful, up-to-the-minute updates and alerts when disasters are likely. There are also weather cameras and alerts, as well as general information:

www.levycounty.org

www.levydisaster.com

www.floridadisaster.com

www.alertlevy.com

www.levyweather.com

www.facebook.com/lcdem