'Above normal' 2023 Atlantic hurricane season predicted. What Cape Codders need to know

This is the time of year when Cape Codders turn their gaze to the south and wonder: Is a hurricane headed our way? According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the "peak of the Atlantic hurricane season is Sept. 10, with most activity occurring between mid-August and mid-October."

And earlier this month, NOAA forecasters increased its 2023 Atlantic hurricane season prediction to the "above normal" category, citing factors that include "record-warm Atlantic sea surface temperatures." So it makes sense for Cape Codders to keep an eye on extreme weather possibilities throughout Atlantic hurricane season, which ends on Nov. 30.

How to stay informed about tropical storms and hurricanes

Bryce Williams, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service Boston/Norton office said there are several ways that the public can stay up-to-date with possible tropical storms and hurricanes. A great place to start is by visiting the office's website (weather.gov/box), where forecasts for the region are constantly updated.

"We are always posting on social media as well," said Williams in a phone interview with the Cape Cod Times. On Facebook, the National Weather Service Boston/Norton office posts are available at facebook.com/NWSBoston. The office uses the handle @NWSBoston on X, formerly Twitter.

For those who want to take a deeper dive into storm activity in the Atlantic Ocean, Williams recommends visiting the National Hurricane Center website (nhc.noaa.gov). The agency also posts updates on Facebook (facebook.com/NWSNHC).

How to prepare for a tropical storm or hurricane

NOAA has a lot of great hurricane preparation information on its website: noaa.gov/prepare-before-hurricane-season. They advise folks to prepare for hurricanes before the season even begins. The goal is to have a plan in place, so you can avoid rushing as a storm bears down.

According to NOAA, people should have an evacuation plan in place that identifies a place they could go if it became necessary. It doesn't necessarily mean relocating hundreds of miles away, but it could be a move to a relative or friend's well-built home that isn't prone to flooding. Keep pets in mind as well.

Have supplies on hand

In the storm supply department, NOAA suggests that you have "enough non-perishable food, water and medicine to last each person in your family a minimum of 3 days (store a longer than 3-day supply of water, if possible)." Because of possible power outages, it's a good idea to keep extra cash on hand and have a good supply of battery-powered flashlights and a radio. For cellphones, a solar or portable crank charger could be very handy.

On a personal note, I have had good luck with the relatively inexpensive SilvaBRYSON battery-powered AM/FM weather radio. It runs on two AA batteries, and I have found that it picks up our local NOAA weather broadcast quite clearly.

You also may want to consider ways to strengthen your home's ability to withstand the effects of a tropical storm or hurricane. Trimming trees can be helpful. If you plan to board up windows or doors, it makes sense to have those materials on hand ahead of time.

Check your insurance coverage

Other tips include making sure your insurance coverage is sufficient in case of storm damage. Part of that preparation could be documenting your possessions with photos or serial numbers in case you have to make an insurance claim.

Have a communication plan in place

It's possible that the internet may be down during or after a storm. NOAA suggests that folks write down their hurricane plan and share it with members of their family. It's also a good idea to have a written list of emergency contacts, including utility companies.

Eric Williams, when not solving Curious Cape Cod mysteries, writes about a variety of ways to enjoy the Cape, the weather, wildlife and other subjects. Contact him at ewilliams@capecodonline.com. Follow him on Twitter: @capecast.

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This article originally appeared on Cape Cod Times: Hurricane season on Cape Cod: Tips to prepare for a big storm