It's Here: 2011 Atlantic Hurricane Season
DORAL (CBS4)- Hurricane season is here. The six-month Atlantic hurricane season begins Wednesday and continues through Nov. 30.
To mark Hurricane Season 2011, Miami-Dade County Commission Chairman Joe A. Martinez, together with members of Board of County Commissioners, County Manager Alina T. Hudak, Emergency Management Director Curtis Sommerhoff, and Sam Tidwell, Regional Chief Executive Officer with the Miami-Dade County Commission Chairman Joe A. Martinez, and the Keys, held a hurricane preparedness news conference on Wednesday at the Emergency Operations Center in Doral.
South Florida endured Hurricane Wilma back in 2005, and since then it's been smooth sailing through hurricane season. But Cynthia Gutierrez of the American Red Cross said being prepared is the key.
"It's very important for South Floridians to be ready," she said. "History books have told us that barely six years that have gone by without a hit in South Florida. We're now up to year number six."
That means it's time to pay attention. Local officials are reminding South Floridians to be ready for what could be a very active season.
"The government will not be able to assist you nor will we endanger the lives of those who are there to protect you," Martinez said. "For those who have chosen not to follow and head the rules."
It's loud and clear that preparation is key and taking time to plan for a natural disaster can help save your life and your family.
"You should be prepared," Martinez said. "It's here and we all need to take it seriously."
There are three key steps officials are urgently asking you to take:
- Create a disaster supply kit.
- Make a family plan
- And be informed
Notably, make sure you have three days worth of non-perishable food and one gallon per day, per person.
Miami-Dade County Commissioner of District 9, Dennis Moss, said "This is our time. This is our season so we need to be prepared."
Miami-Dade residents are urged to Get a Kit, Make a Plan and Be Informed.
Residents may access emergency information at www.miamidade.gov/oem
Additionally, make sure to join the CBS4's storm team Saturday at 7 p.m. for the Hurricane 2011 special.
