As the 2024 hurricane season approaches, leading meteorologists and weather channels are predicting an intense season, emphasizing the importance of hurricane shutters and other protective measures. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has released its annual forecast, indicating that the upcoming season could be more active than usual due to the influence of La Niña.
The NOAA’s predictions for the 2024 hurricane season suggest that homeowners in hurricane-prone areas should start preparing now. One of the most effective ways to protect homes from hurricane damage is by installing hurricane shutters. These shutters are designed to withstand high winds and flying debris, providing an essential layer of protection for windows and doors. They also encourage residents in hurricane prone areas to update their evacuation plans- including routes, family meet-up contingencies, as well as stockpiling supplies to endure prolonged power outages that may affect water and food supplies.
According to the NOAA, the 2024 hurricane season is expected to be more active due to the ongoing La Niña event. La Niña, a climate pattern characterized by cooler-than-average sea surface temperatures in the central Pacific Ocean, can enhance hurricane activity in the Atlantic.
Leading meteorologists from various weather channels have echoed NOAA’s predictions, warning residents in hurricane-prone areas to prepare for a potentially intense season. They recommend installing hurricane shutters as a crucial step in hurricane preparedness.
“Hurricane shutters are a vital part of any hurricane preparedness plan,” said a meteorologist at the Weather Channel. “They can significantly reduce the risk of window and door damage, which can lead to more extensive structural damage.” This reinforces the fact that hurricane shutters protect homes by keeping the roof/walls on the house, since the pressurized home can explode if a window or door is compromised and the high interior pressure is rapidly equalized with the extremely low pressure of a hurricane. Even if the leak is slow, the wind and rain can wreak havoc on the interior of a home.
The 2024 hurricane season predictions have led to an increased demand for hurricane shutters. Homeowners are urged to install these protective measures as soon as possible to ensure their homes are ready for the upcoming season due to the 2-4 month lead-time on most shutter styles.