NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center is predicting another above-normal Atlantic hurricane season...
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The Atlantic hurricane season extends from June 1 through Nov. 30. NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center is predicting another above-normal Atlantic hurricane season. Forecasters predict a 60% chance of an above-normal season, a 30% chance of a near-normal season, and a 10% chance of a below-normal season. However, experts do not anticipate the historic level of storm activity seen in 2020.
A safe drinking water supply is important during an emergency. The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) and Federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA) recommend that households store one to one and one-half gallons of water per person for a minimum of a three-day supply. For a family of four that is a minimum of 12 to 18 gallons of water.
Purchasing and storing an adequate supply can be costly and take up considerable space. In addition, thin plastic water jugs can degrade over time, leaking and/or becoming contaminated. To reduce costs, storage concerns, and ensure a safe water supply, consider sanitizing household containers for storing needed water.
DIY Containers: Sanitize household containers and fill with water when a storm is approaching.
Water can also be stored in a freezer. Frozen water provides the added benefit of helping to keep frozen food cold for a longer time if power is out for an extended period and you can use in coolers to keep food cold and then drink once melted.
Use only plastic containers to store water in a freezer, as glass may not be able to withstand the pressure of expanding ice.
To minimize exposure to bacteria, open a container just before use and then refrigerate it if power is available. If no refrigeration is available, keep the container up high, away from children and pets. Use water from opened containers within 1 to 2 days if possible.
To learn more about hurricane preparedness, please watch the recordings on the YouTube channel UF/IFAS Extension: Water Resources.