Millions of Americans are urged to start preparing for an “above the average” hurricane season that is set to kick off in a few days.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) shared the prediction on Thursday, warning of an “above average” season, which officially starts on June 1 and would likely result in more named storms than last season’s.
The NOAA predicted up to 19 named storms, 10 hurricanes, and five major hurricanes for this year.
“We’ve got to convince people of the danger. Every Category 5 hurricane that has ever hit this country was a tropical storm or less than three days prior,” said director of NOAA’s National Weather Service Ken Graham.
Graham urged Americans to start stocking up supplies and essentials, including gas, before major storms begin approaching the East Coast.
“The number one thing to do before hurricane season is to know your threat. If you’re along a river, you know to prepare for flooding,” Graham said.
“Know your evacuation plan if you’re on the coast.”
