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For immediate release: June 1, 2006
The National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced that a very active hurricane season is looming, and encouraged individuals to make preparations to better protect their lives and property.
“For the 2006 north Atlantic hurricane season, NOAA is predicting 13 to 16 named storms, with eight to 10 becoming hurricanes, of which four to six could become ‘major’ hurricanes of Category 3 strength or higher,” added retired Navy Vice Adm. Conrad C. Lautenbacher, Ph.D., undersecretary of commerce for oceans and atmosphere and NOAA administrator.
On average, the north Atlantic hurricane season produces 11 named storms, with six becoming hurricanes, including two major hurricanes. In 2005, the Atlantic hurricane season contained a record 28 storms, including 15 hurricanes. Seven of those hurricanes were considered “major,” of which a record four hit the United States.
“Although NOAA is not forecasting a repeat of last year’s season, the potential for hurricanes striking the U.S. is high,” added Lautenbacher.
According to NOAA Climate Prediction Center, scientists say that neither El Niño nor La Niña likely will be a factor in this year’s hurricane season.
“Whether we face an active hurricane season, like this year, or a below-normal season, the crucial message for every person is the same: prepare, prepare, prepare,” said Max Mayfield, director of the NOAA National Hurricane Center.
“One hurricane hitting where you live is enough to make it a bad season,” Mayfield said.
The north Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30. NOAA will issue a mid-season update in early August just prior to the normal August through October peak in activity.
For more information, contact the Town of South Padre Island at (956) 761-6456 or visit the Town’s Emergency Management Web site at http://sopadreemergencycom.readyhosting.com/.
Melissa A. Zamora
Deputy Emergency Management Public Information Officer
Town of South Padre Island
(956) 761-3005
(956) 433-1231 (cell)
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