Hurricane Season 2023
2023 Atlantic Hurricane Season Predictions
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), together with the National Weather Service (NWS), have released their annual Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook. They are anticipating that we will have a “near-normal” hurricane season, with an estimated 12 - 17 named storms. Of those storms, 5 - 9 are expected to become hurricanes, and 1 - 4 of them could become major hurricanes.
When does the Atlantic hurricane season begin?
Hurricane season lasts from June 1st through November 30th each year. In other words, the 2023 season has already begun!
What can we do to prepare our buildings and protect our assets?
Preventive maintenance is the key. Make sure your roof is clean and are free of debris, and that all items on the roof are securely attached to it. Having an expert inspect your roof is the best way to go.
Check your roof drainage. Are your drains, gutters, and scuppers clear? Hurricanes can produce over 10” of rain in a few hours. A clogged drain system during a heavy rain event can add weight to the roof causing a potential for roof damage or collapse. Water standing on a roof weighs about 5 lbs per inch for every sq ft. Just 1” of standing water on a 5,000 sq ft roof could add 25,000 lbs!
Are there any materials that are being stored on the roof? They need to be properly secured (or relocated) before high winds arrive.
Do you have any equipment that is weighted down instead of fastened down? We’ve seen a lot of accessories (like satellite dishes or antennas), that are weighted down with cinder blocks or sand bags instead of being properly fastened to the roof or parapet wall. Hurricane force winds can overpower those weights, and turn those objects into deadly projectiles that can damage your roof.
Check your HVAC units. Make sure all pieces and access doors are fully fastened, and check to make sure the unit itself is appropriately secured to the roof.
Get your roof inspected. If you use an experienced, licensed, and insured commercial roofer like TeamCraft, we will provide a detailed inspection of your roof, including photos and recommendations. Often times, we can detect potential failure points before they begin to leak, and perform the necessary repairs to shore things up before the storm arrives.
To request an inspection or to get a consultation, give us a call at 888-766-3001, or click here.