1 00:00:00,000 --> 00:00:02,160 Hey everybody and welcome back to Meteorology Matters. 2 00:00:02,160 --> 00:00:03,520 Yes, welcome back. 3 00:00:03,520 --> 00:00:07,180 Our focus today is the 2025 hurricane season. 4 00:00:07,180 --> 00:00:09,700 And even though that feels like a long way off. 5 00:00:09,700 --> 00:00:10,540 It does. 6 00:00:10,540 --> 00:00:12,400 It's really never too early to start thinking 7 00:00:12,400 --> 00:00:14,000 about what we might be in for. 8 00:00:14,000 --> 00:00:15,800 Exactly, we wanna be prepared. 9 00:00:15,800 --> 00:00:16,640 Yes. 10 00:00:16,640 --> 00:00:17,680 So to help us break it all down, 11 00:00:17,680 --> 00:00:21,400 we have an expert in all things hurricanes joining us. 12 00:00:21,400 --> 00:00:22,240 It's great to be here. 13 00:00:22,240 --> 00:00:23,520 And we're really glad to have you. 14 00:00:23,520 --> 00:00:24,400 Thanks. 15 00:00:24,400 --> 00:00:26,020 And we'll be drawing on some insights 16 00:00:26,020 --> 00:00:28,600 from hurricane specialist Brian Norcross. 17 00:00:28,600 --> 00:00:29,440 That's right. 18 00:00:29,440 --> 00:00:30,760 To help us make sense of everything. 19 00:00:30,760 --> 00:00:31,600 Absolutely. 20 00:00:31,600 --> 00:00:32,600 But before we get into all that. 21 00:00:32,600 --> 00:00:33,440 Yes. 22 00:00:33,440 --> 00:00:35,480 A quick reminder to follow Meteorologist Rob Jones 23 00:00:35,480 --> 00:00:36,880 for some great weather insights. 24 00:00:36,880 --> 00:00:37,720 Oh yeah, he's great. 25 00:00:37,720 --> 00:00:39,600 You can find him on Instagram at meteorologist 26 00:00:39,600 --> 00:00:42,000 on TikTok at TV meteorologist. 27 00:00:42,000 --> 00:00:42,920 I follow him on both. 28 00:00:42,920 --> 00:00:43,760 Oh nice. 29 00:00:43,760 --> 00:00:46,480 And on YouTube you could just search Rob Jones' hurricane. 30 00:00:46,480 --> 00:00:47,800 Easy to find. 31 00:00:47,800 --> 00:00:49,880 And you can find the Meteorology Matters playlist 32 00:00:49,880 --> 00:00:51,200 on his YouTube channel as well. 33 00:00:51,200 --> 00:00:51,960 Awesome. 34 00:00:51,960 --> 00:00:52,800 All right. 35 00:00:52,800 --> 00:00:53,640 Okay, so. 36 00:00:53,640 --> 00:00:54,480 Let's set the stage here. 37 00:00:54,480 --> 00:00:55,320 Okay. 38 00:00:55,320 --> 00:00:58,680 We are coming off a really active 2024 hurricane season. 39 00:00:58,680 --> 00:00:59,420 We are. 40 00:00:59,420 --> 00:01:01,440 A lot more active than most folks were anticipating. 41 00:01:01,440 --> 00:01:02,280 Yeah. 42 00:01:02,280 --> 00:01:03,280 A lot of surprises last year. 43 00:01:03,280 --> 00:01:04,280 Yeah. 44 00:01:04,280 --> 00:01:07,480 Barrel Francine, Helene Milton-Rafael. 45 00:01:07,480 --> 00:01:08,360 Oh yeah. 46 00:01:08,360 --> 00:01:09,920 Those names probably ring a bell 47 00:01:09,920 --> 00:01:12,160 for those of you who follow hurricane seasons closely. 48 00:01:12,160 --> 00:01:13,000 Absolutely. 49 00:01:13,000 --> 00:01:13,840 Yeah. 50 00:01:13,840 --> 00:01:16,560 They all formed in the Gulf and Caribbean regions. 51 00:01:16,560 --> 00:01:17,480 They did. 52 00:01:17,480 --> 00:01:18,320 Right. 53 00:01:18,320 --> 00:01:19,160 Yes. 54 00:01:19,160 --> 00:01:20,000 So should we be thinking about this 55 00:01:20,000 --> 00:01:24,080 as like a potential pattern of more frequent 56 00:01:24,080 --> 00:01:26,080 and intense hurricanes? 57 00:01:26,080 --> 00:01:27,960 That's a question a lot of people are asking. 58 00:01:27,960 --> 00:01:28,800 Yeah. 59 00:01:28,800 --> 00:01:31,080 One of the things that Brian Newell-Cross has been focusing 60 00:01:31,080 --> 00:01:35,360 on is the unusually warm Caribbean sea temperatures. 61 00:01:35,360 --> 00:01:37,040 Oh, I see where this is going. 62 00:01:37,040 --> 00:01:37,880 Yeah. 63 00:01:37,880 --> 00:01:40,480 And warm water is basically fuel for hurricanes. 64 00:01:40,480 --> 00:01:41,320 Makes sense. 65 00:01:41,320 --> 00:01:43,080 So that has him particularly concerned. 66 00:01:43,080 --> 00:01:43,920 Yeah. 67 00:01:43,920 --> 00:01:45,480 I can see why warmer water is stronger scorns. 68 00:01:45,480 --> 00:01:46,480 Exactly. 69 00:01:46,480 --> 00:01:48,760 And not only that, but warm water can lead 70 00:01:48,760 --> 00:01:51,080 to something called rapid intensification. 71 00:01:51,080 --> 00:01:52,000 Okay. 72 00:01:52,000 --> 00:01:54,880 So think of it like a car suddenly hitting the gas pedal. 73 00:01:54,880 --> 00:01:55,720 Okay. 74 00:01:55,720 --> 00:01:56,920 You know, a tropical storm can turn 75 00:01:56,920 --> 00:01:59,760 into a major hurricane incredibly fast, 76 00:01:59,760 --> 00:02:02,800 making it that much harder to predict and prepare for. 77 00:02:02,800 --> 00:02:03,640 Right. 78 00:02:03,640 --> 00:02:04,480 And we actually saw this happen 79 00:02:04,480 --> 00:02:06,160 with Hurricane Barrel last year. 80 00:02:06,160 --> 00:02:07,000 Oh, wow. 81 00:02:07,000 --> 00:02:07,840 That is scary. 82 00:02:07,840 --> 00:02:08,800 It is. 83 00:02:08,800 --> 00:02:12,680 And if we look back, Hurricane Dorian in 2019. 84 00:02:12,680 --> 00:02:13,520 Yes. 85 00:02:13,520 --> 00:02:15,840 Was another storm that really left its mark. 86 00:02:15,840 --> 00:02:16,680 Absolutely. 87 00:02:16,680 --> 00:02:18,080 The devastation in the Bahamas, 88 00:02:18,080 --> 00:02:19,520 particularly the Apoco Islands. 89 00:02:19,520 --> 00:02:20,360 Right. 90 00:02:20,360 --> 00:02:22,120 Is something a lot of people won't soon forget. 91 00:02:22,120 --> 00:02:22,960 Yeah. 92 00:02:22,960 --> 00:02:23,800 Right. 93 00:02:23,800 --> 00:02:25,480 And they actually retired the name Dorian. 94 00:02:25,480 --> 00:02:26,320 Oh, wow. 95 00:02:26,320 --> 00:02:27,840 And they're placing it with Dexter. 96 00:02:27,840 --> 00:02:28,680 Interesting. 97 00:02:28,680 --> 00:02:29,800 For the 2025 season. 98 00:02:29,800 --> 00:02:30,640 Okay. 99 00:02:30,640 --> 00:02:31,960 So yeah, Dorian was a sobering reminder 100 00:02:31,960 --> 00:02:34,840 that even if a season is forecasted 101 00:02:34,840 --> 00:02:36,760 to be relatively quiet, 102 00:02:36,760 --> 00:02:39,840 a single powerful storm can change everything. 103 00:02:39,840 --> 00:02:40,880 Yeah, that's a good point. 104 00:02:40,880 --> 00:02:42,320 It's a cautionary tale. 105 00:02:42,320 --> 00:02:43,160 It is. 106 00:02:43,160 --> 00:02:44,000 Yeah. 107 00:02:44,000 --> 00:02:45,720 Okay, so we've talked about the potential 108 00:02:45,720 --> 00:02:47,440 for like a more active season. 109 00:02:47,440 --> 00:02:48,280 Right. 110 00:02:48,280 --> 00:02:49,520 But we've also got this thing called 111 00:02:49,520 --> 00:02:51,400 the spring predictability barrier. 112 00:02:51,400 --> 00:02:52,240 Yes. 113 00:02:52,240 --> 00:02:53,080 To consider. 114 00:02:53,080 --> 00:02:54,240 Can you explain what that means? 115 00:02:54,240 --> 00:02:55,060 Sure. 116 00:02:55,060 --> 00:02:56,240 Especially for folks who might not be familiar 117 00:02:56,240 --> 00:02:57,080 with the term. 118 00:02:57,080 --> 00:02:58,960 Yeah, so during springtime, 119 00:02:58,960 --> 00:03:00,560 it's really challenging to predict 120 00:03:00,560 --> 00:03:03,480 whether we'll have an El Niño or a La Niña event. 121 00:03:03,480 --> 00:03:04,320 Right. 122 00:03:04,320 --> 00:03:05,960 Which are these big climate patterns 123 00:03:05,960 --> 00:03:08,240 that can really influence hurricane season. 124 00:03:08,240 --> 00:03:10,400 They can influence like everything it seems like. 125 00:03:10,400 --> 00:03:12,120 They can have a global impact. 126 00:03:12,120 --> 00:03:12,960 Right. 127 00:03:12,960 --> 00:03:14,120 I always forget what ENSO stands for. 128 00:03:14,120 --> 00:03:15,080 Oh yeah. 129 00:03:15,080 --> 00:03:15,920 What is it again? 130 00:03:15,920 --> 00:03:18,200 ENSO stands for El Niña Southern Oscillation. 131 00:03:18,200 --> 00:03:19,040 Okay. 132 00:03:19,040 --> 00:03:21,640 And right now we're expecting neutral ENSO conditions. 133 00:03:21,640 --> 00:03:23,640 Okay, so no El Niño or La Niña 134 00:03:23,640 --> 00:03:25,600 to like really strongly influence things. 135 00:03:25,600 --> 00:03:26,440 Exactly. 136 00:03:26,440 --> 00:03:28,120 So essentially during the spring, 137 00:03:28,120 --> 00:03:29,120 the trade winds. 138 00:03:29,120 --> 00:03:29,960 Okay. 139 00:03:29,960 --> 00:03:32,040 Which are winds that blow near the equator. 140 00:03:32,040 --> 00:03:33,880 They're weaker and less consistent. 141 00:03:33,880 --> 00:03:34,720 Got it. 142 00:03:34,720 --> 00:03:36,480 And that makes it tougher to predict 143 00:03:36,480 --> 00:03:38,520 those El Niña and La Niña patterns. 144 00:03:38,520 --> 00:03:40,780 Okay, so no strong El Niña or La Niña 145 00:03:40,780 --> 00:03:42,360 to like give us clues. 146 00:03:42,360 --> 00:03:43,200 Right. 147 00:03:43,200 --> 00:03:44,120 Yeah, that makes it even harder 148 00:03:44,120 --> 00:03:46,960 to get a clear picture of what 2025 might hold. 149 00:03:46,960 --> 00:03:47,800 It does. 150 00:03:47,800 --> 00:03:48,640 Okay. 151 00:03:48,640 --> 00:03:50,200 But even with neutral ENSO conditions, 152 00:03:50,200 --> 00:03:51,920 other factors can come into play. 153 00:03:51,920 --> 00:03:52,760 Like what? 154 00:03:52,760 --> 00:03:55,720 Well, we might see dips in the jet stream. 155 00:03:55,720 --> 00:03:56,560 Okay. 156 00:03:56,560 --> 00:03:59,040 Or cold fronts pushing down from the north. 157 00:03:59,040 --> 00:03:59,880 Interesting. 158 00:03:59,880 --> 00:04:02,040 These can all influence how storms develop 159 00:04:02,040 --> 00:04:03,000 and where they travel. 160 00:04:03,000 --> 00:04:05,000 So even though it's still early, 161 00:04:05,000 --> 00:04:07,360 what are some of the things that you're watching closely 162 00:04:07,360 --> 00:04:09,200 as we head towards hurricane season? 163 00:04:09,200 --> 00:04:11,160 Hmm, that's a good question. 164 00:04:11,160 --> 00:04:12,000 What have you concerned 165 00:04:12,000 --> 00:04:13,880 or maybe even a little bit optimistic? 166 00:04:13,880 --> 00:04:15,520 Well, one thing that has me concerned, 167 00:04:15,520 --> 00:04:16,680 and we've already touched on this, 168 00:04:16,680 --> 00:04:19,040 is the warmth of the Caribbean. 169 00:04:19,040 --> 00:04:21,080 It's not just a little bit warmer than usual, 170 00:04:21,080 --> 00:04:22,680 it's significantly warmer. 171 00:04:22,680 --> 00:04:23,520 Okay. 172 00:04:23,520 --> 00:04:25,640 And that's a recipe for powerful storms. 173 00:04:25,640 --> 00:04:26,880 Yeah, you mentioned Brian Norcross 174 00:04:26,880 --> 00:04:28,040 is concerned about this too. 175 00:04:28,040 --> 00:04:28,880 He is. 176 00:04:28,880 --> 00:04:29,720 Okay. 177 00:04:29,720 --> 00:04:32,800 It makes predicting hurricane intensity really tough. 178 00:04:32,800 --> 00:04:33,640 Yeah. 179 00:04:33,640 --> 00:04:35,960 A storm could form and look fairly ordinary, 180 00:04:35,960 --> 00:04:37,640 but then intensify very quickly 181 00:04:37,640 --> 00:04:39,720 once it hits that warm water in the Caribbean. 182 00:04:39,720 --> 00:04:40,560 Right. 183 00:04:40,560 --> 00:04:42,040 That's what rapid intensification is all about. 184 00:04:42,040 --> 00:04:44,160 Okay, so that's definitely something to keep in mind 185 00:04:44,160 --> 00:04:45,720 as we get closer to June 1st. 186 00:04:45,720 --> 00:04:46,560 Yes. 187 00:04:46,560 --> 00:04:48,120 So what about the other side of the coin? 188 00:04:48,120 --> 00:04:48,960 Okay. 189 00:04:48,960 --> 00:04:50,160 Are there any factors that could make 190 00:04:50,160 --> 00:04:52,640 this hurricane season less active? 191 00:04:52,640 --> 00:04:56,480 Hmm, it's tough to say for sure this early in the game. 192 00:04:56,480 --> 00:04:57,320 Right. 193 00:04:57,320 --> 00:04:59,560 That spring predictability barrier really limits 194 00:04:59,560 --> 00:05:01,280 what we can competently predict right now. 195 00:05:01,280 --> 00:05:02,120 That makes sense. 196 00:05:02,120 --> 00:05:02,960 Yeah. 197 00:05:02,960 --> 00:05:03,800 So we've talked about the potential 198 00:05:03,800 --> 00:05:05,760 for an active season through the warm waters. 199 00:05:05,760 --> 00:05:06,600 Right. 200 00:05:06,600 --> 00:05:08,560 But with neutral ENSO conditions, 201 00:05:08,560 --> 00:05:10,120 it's still a bit of a mystery. 202 00:05:10,120 --> 00:05:11,320 It is a bit of a mystery. 203 00:05:11,320 --> 00:05:13,640 And that's why it's so important to stay informed. 204 00:05:13,640 --> 00:05:14,480 Absolutely. 205 00:05:14,480 --> 00:05:15,880 And pay attention to those forecasts. 206 00:05:15,880 --> 00:05:16,720 For sure. 207 00:05:16,720 --> 00:05:18,080 As we get closer to hurricane season. 208 00:05:18,080 --> 00:05:18,920 Yes. 209 00:05:18,920 --> 00:05:21,160 And speaking of advancements in hurricane forecasting. 210 00:05:21,160 --> 00:05:22,000 Yes. 211 00:05:22,000 --> 00:05:24,760 We've got new tools like the National Hurricane Center's 212 00:05:24,760 --> 00:05:25,960 extended forecasts. 213 00:05:25,960 --> 00:05:26,800 Uh-huh. 214 00:05:26,800 --> 00:05:28,920 And this thing called AAFS, right? 215 00:05:28,920 --> 00:05:29,760 Yes, ASA. 216 00:05:29,760 --> 00:05:31,560 Let's dig into those a bit more after a quick break. 217 00:05:31,560 --> 00:05:32,400 Sounds good. 218 00:05:32,400 --> 00:05:34,200 We'll be right back with more meteorology matters. 219 00:05:34,200 --> 00:05:35,040 All right. 220 00:05:35,040 --> 00:05:36,760 Welcome back to meteorology matters. 221 00:05:36,760 --> 00:05:37,600 All right. 222 00:05:37,600 --> 00:05:38,440 So before the break, we were talking about 223 00:05:38,440 --> 00:05:40,920 the National Hurricane Center's extended forecast. 224 00:05:40,920 --> 00:05:41,760 We were. 225 00:05:41,760 --> 00:05:46,320 And I'm particularly interested in this new 226 00:05:46,320 --> 00:05:48,800 potential tropical cyclone designation. 227 00:05:48,800 --> 00:05:49,640 Yes. 228 00:05:49,640 --> 00:05:50,480 The PTC. 229 00:05:50,480 --> 00:05:52,440 Yeah, or PTC as the experts call it. 230 00:05:52,440 --> 00:05:53,360 Right. 231 00:05:53,360 --> 00:05:55,320 It seems like that could really change the game 232 00:05:55,320 --> 00:05:58,160 when it comes to giving people more time to prepare. 233 00:05:58,160 --> 00:05:59,200 Absolutely it could. 234 00:05:59,200 --> 00:06:00,040 Yeah. 235 00:06:00,040 --> 00:06:03,000 The PTC designation allows the National Hurricane Center 236 00:06:03,000 --> 00:06:05,280 to start issuing watches and warnings 237 00:06:05,280 --> 00:06:07,080 even earlier than they used to. 238 00:06:07,080 --> 00:06:09,400 So even before it's technically a hurricane? 239 00:06:09,400 --> 00:06:10,240 Right. 240 00:06:10,240 --> 00:06:11,920 Essentially they can now issue alerts 241 00:06:11,920 --> 00:06:14,440 before a system has even become a tropical storm. 242 00:06:14,440 --> 00:06:15,360 So they're basically saying, 243 00:06:15,360 --> 00:06:17,040 hey, this thing we're watching. 244 00:06:17,040 --> 00:06:17,880 Right. 245 00:06:17,880 --> 00:06:18,880 Might become a problem. 246 00:06:18,880 --> 00:06:19,720 Exactly. 247 00:06:19,720 --> 00:06:20,560 So you need to be ready. 248 00:06:20,560 --> 00:06:22,000 Yeah, you need to start thinking about it. 249 00:06:22,000 --> 00:06:24,600 Even though it hasn't technically formed into a storm yet. 250 00:06:24,600 --> 00:06:26,880 Precisely the goal is to give communities 251 00:06:26,880 --> 00:06:28,640 as much lead time as possible 252 00:06:28,640 --> 00:06:31,400 so they can make informed decisions about their safety. 253 00:06:31,400 --> 00:06:33,960 So instead of waiting until a storm has fully formed. 254 00:06:33,960 --> 00:06:34,800 Right. 255 00:06:34,800 --> 00:06:35,640 They're getting ahead of the curve. 256 00:06:35,640 --> 00:06:36,480 Exactly. 257 00:06:36,480 --> 00:06:38,280 And providing those critical early warnings. 258 00:06:38,280 --> 00:06:39,120 Yes. 259 00:06:39,120 --> 00:06:40,000 That's incredible. 260 00:06:40,000 --> 00:06:40,840 It is. 261 00:06:40,840 --> 00:06:42,600 It's like getting a notification that a package 262 00:06:42,600 --> 00:06:44,800 might arrive even before it's left the warehouse. 263 00:06:44,800 --> 00:06:46,000 I like that analogy. 264 00:06:46,000 --> 00:06:46,840 Yeah. 265 00:06:46,840 --> 00:06:49,160 It's all about giving people the information they need 266 00:06:49,160 --> 00:06:51,200 to make the best possible choices 267 00:06:51,200 --> 00:06:52,480 when it comes to their safety. 268 00:06:52,480 --> 00:06:53,320 Absolutely. 269 00:06:53,320 --> 00:06:54,160 All right. 270 00:06:54,160 --> 00:06:55,040 So now let's talk about another advancement 271 00:06:55,040 --> 00:06:58,120 in hurricane forecasting that's been generating a lot of buzz. 272 00:06:58,120 --> 00:06:58,960 Okay. 273 00:06:58,960 --> 00:07:01,920 The hurricane analysis and forecast system 274 00:07:01,920 --> 00:07:03,880 or HF as the experts call it. 275 00:07:03,880 --> 00:07:04,720 Right. 276 00:07:04,720 --> 00:07:05,560 Can you tell us a bit more about that? 277 00:07:05,560 --> 00:07:06,400 Absolutely. 278 00:07:06,400 --> 00:07:09,640 HF is a next generation hurricane modeling system 279 00:07:09,640 --> 00:07:10,960 operated by NOAA. 280 00:07:10,960 --> 00:07:11,800 Okay. 281 00:07:11,800 --> 00:07:14,040 It became operational in 2023 282 00:07:14,040 --> 00:07:16,480 and received a major upgrade last year. 283 00:07:16,480 --> 00:07:17,720 So still pretty new. 284 00:07:17,720 --> 00:07:19,120 It is relatively new. 285 00:07:19,120 --> 00:07:19,960 Okay. 286 00:07:19,960 --> 00:07:24,520 What sets HF apart is its use of storm following nests. 287 00:07:24,520 --> 00:07:25,760 Storm following nests. 288 00:07:25,760 --> 00:07:26,600 Yes. 289 00:07:26,600 --> 00:07:27,440 What does that mean? 290 00:07:27,440 --> 00:07:29,440 Well, you can think of it like zooming in on a map 291 00:07:29,440 --> 00:07:31,440 to get a much more detailed view. 292 00:07:31,440 --> 00:07:32,280 Okay. 293 00:07:32,280 --> 00:07:33,440 So instead of just seeing the big picture. 294 00:07:33,440 --> 00:07:34,280 Right. 295 00:07:34,280 --> 00:07:36,080 We're getting down to the nitty gritty details 296 00:07:36,080 --> 00:07:37,040 of the storm itself. 297 00:07:37,040 --> 00:07:37,880 That's exactly. 298 00:07:37,880 --> 00:07:41,040 It HF provides high resolution simulations 299 00:07:41,040 --> 00:07:42,440 of a hurricane structure. 300 00:07:42,440 --> 00:07:43,280 Wow. 301 00:07:43,280 --> 00:07:44,280 We're talking about the eye wall, 302 00:07:44,280 --> 00:07:46,200 the rain bands, the wind field. 303 00:07:46,200 --> 00:07:48,400 So much more detail than we used to be able to get. 304 00:07:48,400 --> 00:07:49,240 Much more detailed. 305 00:07:49,240 --> 00:07:50,080 Okay. 306 00:07:50,080 --> 00:07:52,720 And this translates into more accurate forecasts. 307 00:07:52,720 --> 00:07:53,560 Yes. 308 00:07:53,560 --> 00:07:54,680 Not just where the storm is going, 309 00:07:54,680 --> 00:07:56,640 but also how strong it might become. 310 00:07:56,640 --> 00:07:57,480 Okay. 311 00:07:57,480 --> 00:07:58,640 And what kinds of impacts we can expect. 312 00:07:58,640 --> 00:07:59,480 So that's huge. 313 00:07:59,480 --> 00:08:00,320 It is huge. 314 00:08:00,320 --> 00:08:01,140 Yeah. 315 00:08:01,140 --> 00:08:01,980 For example, 316 00:08:01,980 --> 00:08:03,880 AFF played a major role in accurately predicting 317 00:08:03,880 --> 00:08:06,040 the rapid intensification of hurricanes, 318 00:08:06,040 --> 00:08:07,840 Helene and Milton last year. 319 00:08:07,840 --> 00:08:08,680 Wow. 320 00:08:08,680 --> 00:08:09,680 You know, it's really interesting to see 321 00:08:09,680 --> 00:08:12,560 how far hurricane forecasting has come. 322 00:08:12,560 --> 00:08:13,680 It really is. 323 00:08:13,680 --> 00:08:15,880 Even with all this unpredictability, 324 00:08:15,880 --> 00:08:18,680 the science and technology are constantly improving. 325 00:08:18,680 --> 00:08:19,520 They are. 326 00:08:19,520 --> 00:08:20,840 And that's one of the key takeaways here. 327 00:08:20,840 --> 00:08:22,440 You know, we're learning more all the time 328 00:08:22,440 --> 00:08:24,760 and these advancements are giving us better tools 329 00:08:24,760 --> 00:08:25,720 to protect ourselves. 330 00:08:25,720 --> 00:08:26,560 Absolutely. 331 00:08:26,560 --> 00:08:27,400 But at the end of the day, 332 00:08:27,400 --> 00:08:28,220 Right. 333 00:08:28,220 --> 00:08:29,160 We can't control the weather. 334 00:08:29,160 --> 00:08:30,000 We can't. 335 00:08:30,000 --> 00:08:31,800 What we can control is how we prepare for it. 336 00:08:31,800 --> 00:08:32,640 Exactly. 337 00:08:32,640 --> 00:08:34,680 But staying informed, following those forecasts 338 00:08:34,680 --> 00:08:37,760 from trusted sources and having a plan in place, 339 00:08:37,760 --> 00:08:39,720 we can significantly reduce the risk 340 00:08:39,720 --> 00:08:41,440 to ourselves and our communities. 341 00:08:41,440 --> 00:08:42,800 So for people listening right now, 342 00:08:42,800 --> 00:08:45,280 especially those who live in hurricane prone areas. 343 00:08:45,280 --> 00:08:45,620 Yeah. 344 00:08:45,620 --> 00:08:47,440 What's the most important thing they should do 345 00:08:47,440 --> 00:08:49,480 to prepare for this upcoming season? 346 00:08:49,480 --> 00:08:50,600 Well, awareness is key. 347 00:08:50,600 --> 00:08:52,040 Understand your risk. 348 00:08:52,040 --> 00:08:54,800 Know your evacuation routes and have a plan in place 349 00:08:54,800 --> 00:08:56,560 for your family, including pets. 350 00:08:56,560 --> 00:08:56,760 Right. 351 00:08:56,760 --> 00:08:58,280 We can't think about our furry friends. 352 00:08:58,280 --> 00:08:59,440 We cannot. 353 00:08:59,440 --> 00:09:01,520 And don't wait until a storm is bearing down on you 354 00:09:01,520 --> 00:09:02,760 to start thinking about these things. 355 00:09:02,760 --> 00:09:03,240 Right. 356 00:09:03,240 --> 00:09:03,960 Start now. 357 00:09:03,960 --> 00:09:04,240 Yeah. 358 00:09:04,240 --> 00:09:06,640 Gather your supplies, make your plan, and stay informed. 359 00:09:06,640 --> 00:09:07,520 Stay informed. 360 00:09:07,520 --> 00:09:08,840 And speaking of staying informed. 361 00:09:08,840 --> 00:09:09,520 Yes. 362 00:09:09,520 --> 00:09:11,320 We'll be back after the break with more tips 363 00:09:11,320 --> 00:09:13,120 on how to prepare for this potentially 364 00:09:13,120 --> 00:09:15,920 unpredictable hurricane season. 365 00:09:15,920 --> 00:09:17,520 Welcome back to Meteorology Matters. 366 00:09:17,520 --> 00:09:20,480 We've spent the first two parts of this episode 367 00:09:20,480 --> 00:09:23,520 talking about what we can expect from the upcoming hurricane 368 00:09:23,520 --> 00:09:24,020 season. 369 00:09:24,020 --> 00:09:27,760 And it's a season that could be less active overall, 370 00:09:27,760 --> 00:09:30,080 but still has that potential for some surprises. 371 00:09:30,080 --> 00:09:30,800 It does. 372 00:09:30,800 --> 00:09:32,400 You know, those warm Caribbean waters 373 00:09:32,400 --> 00:09:35,560 and the uncertainty of neutral ENSO conditions 374 00:09:35,560 --> 00:09:37,800 are definitely giving us a lot to think about. 375 00:09:37,800 --> 00:09:39,280 A lot to think about. 376 00:09:39,280 --> 00:09:40,840 So as we head towards June 1st. 377 00:09:40,840 --> 00:09:41,440 Yes. 378 00:09:41,440 --> 00:09:43,960 It's so important for everyone to be prepared. 379 00:09:43,960 --> 00:09:44,720 Absolutely. 380 00:09:44,720 --> 00:09:46,960 No matter what mother nature throws our way. 381 00:09:46,960 --> 00:09:47,960 No matter what. 382 00:09:47,960 --> 00:09:49,720 So we talked about having a plan. 383 00:09:49,720 --> 00:09:50,040 Right. 384 00:09:50,040 --> 00:09:51,320 But let's break that down a little more. 385 00:09:51,320 --> 00:09:51,760 OK. 386 00:09:51,760 --> 00:09:53,760 What are some specific things that people 387 00:09:53,760 --> 00:09:55,640 should include in their hurricane plan? 388 00:09:55,640 --> 00:09:58,040 Well, first things first, evacuation routes. 389 00:09:58,040 --> 00:09:58,280 OK. 390 00:09:58,280 --> 00:10:00,400 If you live in an area pro to hurricanes, 391 00:10:00,400 --> 00:10:01,760 you need to know where you're going to go. 392 00:10:01,760 --> 00:10:02,000 Right. 393 00:10:02,000 --> 00:10:04,000 If an evacuation order is issued. 394 00:10:04,000 --> 00:10:05,320 Like, don't wait till the last minute. 395 00:10:05,320 --> 00:10:05,720 No. 396 00:10:05,720 --> 00:10:06,200 Don't wait. 397 00:10:06,200 --> 00:10:06,880 To figure this out. 398 00:10:06,880 --> 00:10:07,080 Right. 399 00:10:07,080 --> 00:10:09,840 Map out your route, identify potential shelters. 400 00:10:09,840 --> 00:10:10,280 OK. 401 00:10:10,280 --> 00:10:13,040 And make sure everyone in your household knows the plan. 402 00:10:13,040 --> 00:10:13,440 Got it. 403 00:10:13,440 --> 00:10:14,880 And what about those hurricane kits? 404 00:10:14,880 --> 00:10:15,480 Yes. 405 00:10:15,480 --> 00:10:16,640 That everyone's always talking about? 406 00:10:16,640 --> 00:10:17,920 What should people have on hand? 407 00:10:17,920 --> 00:10:20,400 A well-stocked hurricane kit is essential. 408 00:10:20,400 --> 00:10:20,640 OK. 409 00:10:20,640 --> 00:10:23,000 Think food, water, medications, batteries. 410 00:10:23,000 --> 00:10:23,720 OK. 411 00:10:23,720 --> 00:10:27,200 Flashlights, a first aid kit, copies of important document. 412 00:10:27,200 --> 00:10:27,560 OK. 413 00:10:27,560 --> 00:10:30,920 You want to have enough supplies to last at least three days. 414 00:10:30,920 --> 00:10:31,280 Got it. 415 00:10:31,280 --> 00:10:32,520 Preferably longer. 416 00:10:32,520 --> 00:10:32,760 OK. 417 00:10:32,760 --> 00:10:33,280 That makes sense. 418 00:10:33,280 --> 00:10:35,160 So it's not just about writing out the storm. 419 00:10:35,160 --> 00:10:35,400 Right. 420 00:10:35,400 --> 00:10:37,720 It's about being prepared for the aftermath as well. 421 00:10:37,720 --> 00:10:38,360 Exactly. 422 00:10:38,360 --> 00:10:39,480 Speaking of being prepared. 423 00:10:39,480 --> 00:10:42,720 What about folks who have special needs or considerations 424 00:10:42,720 --> 00:10:45,120 like families with young children, older adults, 425 00:10:45,120 --> 00:10:46,320 people with medical conditions? 426 00:10:46,320 --> 00:10:47,720 Yeah, that's a really important point. 427 00:10:47,720 --> 00:10:49,600 Your hurricane plan needs to be tailored 428 00:10:49,600 --> 00:10:51,240 to your individual circumstances. 429 00:10:51,240 --> 00:10:51,640 OK. 430 00:10:51,640 --> 00:10:54,160 So if you have young children, make sure you have diapers 431 00:10:54,160 --> 00:10:55,800 formula other essentials. 432 00:10:55,800 --> 00:10:56,120 OK. 433 00:10:56,120 --> 00:10:58,440 For older adults or those with medical conditions, 434 00:10:58,440 --> 00:11:00,040 ensure you have enough medication 435 00:11:00,040 --> 00:11:01,920 and any necessary medical equipment. 436 00:11:01,920 --> 00:11:02,280 Right. 437 00:11:02,280 --> 00:11:04,560 It's all about thinking ahead and anticipating 438 00:11:04,560 --> 00:11:06,040 those specific needs. 439 00:11:06,040 --> 00:11:06,320 OK. 440 00:11:06,320 --> 00:11:07,760 So we've covered the plan, the kit. 441 00:11:07,760 --> 00:11:08,400 Right. 442 00:11:08,400 --> 00:11:10,600 How about staying informed during hurricane season? 443 00:11:10,600 --> 00:11:11,160 Yes. 444 00:11:11,160 --> 00:11:14,920 Where should people go for the latest forecasts and warnings? 445 00:11:14,920 --> 00:11:16,720 Well, of course we want folks to keep listening 446 00:11:16,720 --> 00:11:17,840 to Meteorology Matters. 447 00:11:17,840 --> 00:11:18,400 Of course. 448 00:11:18,400 --> 00:11:20,120 But your go-to source should always 449 00:11:20,120 --> 00:11:21,920 be the National Hurricane Center. 450 00:11:21,920 --> 00:11:22,360 OK. 451 00:11:22,360 --> 00:11:24,080 They have a website of a mobile app 452 00:11:24,080 --> 00:11:26,240 and are very active on social media. 453 00:11:26,240 --> 00:11:26,560 Awesome. 454 00:11:26,560 --> 00:11:27,680 And let's not forget about our friend 455 00:11:27,680 --> 00:11:29,000 meteorologist Rob Jones. 456 00:11:29,000 --> 00:11:30,240 Yes, Rob. 457 00:11:30,240 --> 00:11:33,320 He's got some great content on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. 458 00:11:33,320 --> 00:11:33,960 He does. 459 00:11:33,960 --> 00:11:35,800 You can find his Meteorology Matters playlist 460 00:11:35,800 --> 00:11:36,920 on his YouTube channel too. 461 00:11:36,920 --> 00:11:37,560 Absolutely. 462 00:11:37,560 --> 00:11:39,800 Rob's a great resource for staying up to date 463 00:11:39,800 --> 00:11:41,760 on all things weather related. 464 00:11:41,760 --> 00:11:42,080 OK. 465 00:11:42,080 --> 00:11:44,160 So we've talked about the practical aspects 466 00:11:44,160 --> 00:11:45,520 of hurricane preparedness. 467 00:11:45,520 --> 00:11:45,920 Right. 468 00:11:45,920 --> 00:11:48,200 But I think it's also important to touch on the mental 469 00:11:48,200 --> 00:11:49,320 and emotional side of things. 470 00:11:49,320 --> 00:11:49,840 Yes. 471 00:11:49,840 --> 00:11:51,320 Hurricanes can be really stressful. 472 00:11:51,320 --> 00:11:51,920 They can. 473 00:11:51,920 --> 00:11:53,000 And scary events. 474 00:11:53,000 --> 00:11:53,800 Absolutely. 475 00:11:53,800 --> 00:11:57,280 So do you have any advice on how people can manage that anxiety? 476 00:11:57,280 --> 00:11:57,480 Yeah. 477 00:11:57,480 --> 00:11:59,280 It's important to acknowledge your feelings. 478 00:11:59,280 --> 00:11:59,600 OK. 479 00:11:59,600 --> 00:12:02,160 It's perfectly normal to feel anxious or scarce 480 00:12:02,160 --> 00:12:04,440 when facing a potential hurricane threat. 481 00:12:04,440 --> 00:12:05,360 I can imagine. 482 00:12:05,360 --> 00:12:07,600 Talk to someone you trust about how you're feeling. 483 00:12:07,600 --> 00:12:07,880 OK. 484 00:12:07,880 --> 00:12:10,880 Sharing your concerns can really help to lighten the burden. 485 00:12:10,880 --> 00:12:11,680 That's good advice. 486 00:12:11,680 --> 00:12:13,880 And I imagine having a plan in place 487 00:12:13,880 --> 00:12:16,600 can also help reduce some of that anxiety. 488 00:12:16,600 --> 00:12:17,440 Absolutely. 489 00:12:17,440 --> 00:12:21,280 Knowing that you've taken steps to prepare can be empowering. 490 00:12:21,280 --> 00:12:22,080 It can be. 491 00:12:22,080 --> 00:12:23,640 And remember, you're not alone. 492 00:12:23,640 --> 00:12:25,440 That's so important to remember. 493 00:12:25,440 --> 00:12:27,760 Millions of people live in hurricane prone areas. 494 00:12:27,760 --> 00:12:28,360 Yes. 495 00:12:28,360 --> 00:12:29,600 And we go through this together. 496 00:12:29,600 --> 00:12:30,360 We do. 497 00:12:30,360 --> 00:12:31,600 There's a sense of community. 498 00:12:31,600 --> 00:12:32,160 Yes. 499 00:12:32,160 --> 00:12:34,480 And shared experience that can be really comforting 500 00:12:34,480 --> 00:12:35,600 during these times. 501 00:12:35,600 --> 00:12:37,520 And we often see the best of humanity 502 00:12:37,520 --> 00:12:40,320 come out during and after hurricanes. 503 00:12:40,320 --> 00:12:42,960 People helping their neighbors, sharing resources, 504 00:12:42,960 --> 00:12:44,200 offering support. 505 00:12:44,200 --> 00:12:44,720 I love that. 506 00:12:44,720 --> 00:12:47,160 It's a reminder that even in the face of adversity, 507 00:12:47,160 --> 00:12:49,440 we can come together and support each other. 508 00:12:49,440 --> 00:12:51,120 That is a beautiful thought as we wrap up 509 00:12:51,120 --> 00:12:53,080 this episode of Meteorology Matters. 510 00:12:53,080 --> 00:12:56,320 I want to leave our listeners with this one final thought. 511 00:12:56,320 --> 00:12:58,000 Knowledge is power. 512 00:12:58,000 --> 00:12:58,400 Yes. 513 00:12:58,400 --> 00:12:59,920 The more you know about hurricanes, 514 00:12:59,920 --> 00:13:01,760 the better equipped you'll be to face them. 515 00:13:01,760 --> 00:13:02,400 Absolutely. 516 00:13:02,400 --> 00:13:02,920 Well said. 517 00:13:02,920 --> 00:13:05,840 And remember, preparation is not a one-time event. 518 00:13:05,840 --> 00:13:06,520 It's not. 519 00:13:06,520 --> 00:13:08,200 It's an ongoing process. 520 00:13:08,200 --> 00:13:09,760 Stay informed. 521 00:13:09,760 --> 00:13:11,240 Review your plan. 522 00:13:11,240 --> 00:13:12,640 Update your hurricane kit. 523 00:13:12,640 --> 00:13:12,920 OK. 524 00:13:12,920 --> 00:13:14,680 And most importantly, stay safe. 525 00:13:14,680 --> 00:13:16,560 Thank you so much for joining us for this episode 526 00:13:16,560 --> 00:13:17,640 of Meteorology Matters. 527 00:13:17,640 --> 00:13:18,680 It was my pleasure. 528 00:13:18,680 --> 00:13:21,240 We'll be back soon with more insightful discussions 529 00:13:21,240 --> 00:13:33,560 about the weather that matters most to you.