2011 to Bring Another Busy Hurricane Season

Predictions of another busy hurricane season in the Atlantic Ocean has prompted the Emergency Management Office to ask all Nova Scotians to take early and sensible precautions.

"We can never know exactly how many major storms we'll see," Ross Landry, Minister of Justice said. "But it only takes one to create a disaster. A Juan or an Igor alone can be devastating."

The Canadian Hurricane Centre in Halifax, today, May 19, echoed U.S. forecasts that the 2011 hurricane season running roughly from early June to late November, will be busier than normal.

Two weeks ago, Colorado State University experts, recognized for their 28 year history of forecasting major storm activity, predicted above average hurricane traffic this year, with 16 named storms.

The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration agrees there could be 20 to 30 per cent more hurricane activity in the Atlantic Ocean this year.

Sea surface temperatures in the North Atlantic are still at record warm levels, indicating the region is still in a multi-decade period of high activity for hurricanes. It also seems unlikely that an El Niño will develop. El Niño is a warming of the tropical Pacific Ocean that produces wind patterns that squelch development of tropical storms in the Atlantic.

Predictions of named storms in the Atlantic Ocean do not translate into that many major storms in Atlantic Canada, but the Canadian Hurricane Centre is advising caution. The more major storms, the greater the odds that one or more will impact Nova Scotia in the course of the season. Each year an average of one or two storms directly affect Canadian territory, with another two or three typically threatening our offshore waters.

EMO urges people to take the threat seriously and do both long-term and short-term planning.

"It is not a matter of if, but when, another hurricane or unnamed major storm will have significant impacts in Nova Scotia," said Mr. Landry.

All Nova Scotians should have or prepare an emergency plan and kit. The kit should include food, water, flashlights, a battery radio and first-aid materials that will allow families to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours. An evacuation plan also is advisable.

When a serious storm develops people should monitor local media and all weather warnings closely. They should secure outdoor items such as garbage cans that can become wind-borne missiles; park cars away from trees; stay away from dangerous coastal areas, and turn off electrical switches during power outages.

"Let's be proactive and prepare; and do everything we can to reduce the risks to people, animals and property," said Mr. Landry.

For more detailed information on emergency preparations visit the EMO website at emo.gov.ns.ca

The Emergency Management Office, a division of the Department of Justice, aims to ensure the safety and security of Nova Scotians, their property and the environment by providing for a prompt and co-ordinated response to an emergency.