As you know, hurricane season starts today, June 1 and runs through November 30, 2019.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), has stated nine to 15 named storms will develop during this season. This number includes tropical storms.
There are a number of things you may do to as this season starts and, hopefully, you will not have a need to use them.
The Village of Estero’s website has a webpage which includes all the information you should need to help you prepare your family and pet plan including an emergency supply list, emergency shelters and how to sign up for Code Red emergency alerts from Lee County at http://estero-fl.gov/hurricane-season-june-1-november-30/.
During the two major storm events in 2017, subscribers to the Village website were updated daily with articles relating to flooding issues, evacuation, hurricane curfews, health risks of generator usage, and debris clean-up. You may sign up here to get updates: http://estero-fl.gov/
Floridians have seven days to build a hurricane-season stockpile — including batteries, flashlights and radios — free of sales taxes. This tax holiday ends on Thursday, June 6.
Estero Fire Rescue will come to your community to review the importance of hurricane planning if you wish. You may contact them at 239-390-8000.
In addition, there is everything you need to know about flood protection on the Village website at http://estero-fl.gov/flood-insurance-is-important-for-all/.
Lee County also offers a Special Needs Program providing shelter from a tropical storm or hurricane for those who live in a home and/or area that is not safe from storm surge or wind. It also provides transportation to a shelter for those who do not have a way to get there. You must register to receive these services by completing the Special Needs Program application. If you have questions about this program, call 239-533-0640.