June marked the beginning of hurricane season, so proper preparation this summer is important. As stated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the updated averages for the Atlantic hurricane season have increased with 14 named storms (from 12) and 7 hurricanes (from 6), though the average for major hurricanes remained at 3. Boca Raton, a city in Florida, and therefore prone to hurricanes, must not take the situation lightly.

In 2020, the widespread and severe nature of the coronavirus made city officials prepare like never before for hurricane season; to ensure adequate protective measures, necessary changes took place in shelters, like social distancing, temperature checks, and hygiene kits with masks and hand sanitizer would have been given to evacuees at every hurricane shelter. 2021 may have similar reactions, but it has not yet been confirmed.

As Annie Marie Connolly, Boca Raton’s Communication and Marketing manager, said, “The City is taking appropriate measures that include putting procedures in place for its Emergency Operations Center, coordinating safety protocols for emergency staff, and staying in close communication with other agencies to ensure necessary resources are available to be deployed to our area if needed.” She also added, “We are asking our residents to do the same and put necessary plans in place to protect yourself, your property, and your family.”

Some options Boca Raton recommends include:

• As always, be sure to trim your trees and clean out your garages, carports, and storage areas throughout June. We all must be proactive in cleaning out our homes and properties, so we don’t overwhelm our sanitation systems. And when disposing of household debris and even COVID-19 related items such as gloves and masks, please be as considerate and sanitary as possible and place your garbage in tight, closed bags to help keep our sanitation crews safe.
• If you live in an evacuation zone, on the barrier island, or in low-lying areas, it’s never too early to discuss plans regarding possible evacuations
• The Florida Department of Emergency Management recommends having 5-7 days worth of food supplies ready.
• Organize your important papers and documents, test generators, and plan on what you’ll need if you’re without power for a week or longer.
• Stay connected with the City before, during, and after the storm by visiting MyBoca.us and learn how you can receive information from the City.
• Boca Raton is one of the only cities that operates a citizen’s information center where phones are answered by staff and volunteers throughout the storm: 561-982-4900.