Hurricane Season Is Here: Are You Ready?

June 1 marks the official start of the hurricane season in the Eastern Pacific, which includes the Sea of Cortez. Although San Carlos has been fortunate enough to avoid the direct impact of a major hurricane in recent years, tropical storms and hurricanes can bring heavy rain, flooding, power outages, and road closures. Meteorologists are forecasting a season that will be close to average or slightly above average this year. Although no one can predict where storms will develop months in advance, it is much easier to prepare before a storm appears on the radar than after.

A few simple steps can make a big difference:

• Check your emergency supplies, including flashlights, batteries, medications, drinking water, and nonperishable food.
• Make sure that important documents such as passports, property deeds, insurance policies, and identification cards are stored in a safe, waterproof place.
• Trim the trees and secure outdoor furniture or decorative items that could be blown away by strong winds.
• Make sure that gutters, downspouts, and roof drainage systems are clean and working properly.
• Keep your vehicle filled with gas and in good condition during periods when storms are forecast.
• Make sure your family and friends know how to reach you if communications are cut off.

Residents of San Carlos are fortunate to have several organizations that play a very important role during emergencies, including Rescate de San Carlos, the Red Cross, Civil Protection, and local police departments. Their work becomes especially valuable during severe weather events.

For those who live near streams, in low-lying areas, or near drainage channels, it’s worth taking some extra time to assess potential risks before the peak months of August and September arrive.

Most years, hurricane season passes without any major impact. Even so, being prepared is one of the simplest ways to protect your family, your property, and your peace of mind. We encourage everyone to take a few minutes this month to review their emergency plans and supplies. It’s a small investment of time that can make a big difference if a storm were to affect our area.