With the Atlantic hurricane season set to begin June 1, Sussex County emergency management officials are reminding residents to start their storm preparations now, regardless of what forecasters predict for the coming months.
The Sussex County Department of Public Safety/Division of Emergency Management is emphasizing the importance of readiness as communities prepare for summer activities including 250th anniversary independence celebrations and beach gatherings.
Timothy Cooper, Sussex County emergency manager, stressed that residents shouldn’t get caught up in seasonal predictions. “There’s a tendency each year to focus heavily on forecasts, and while it’s great this captures public attention, we want the public to focus on readiness in general, regardless of the predictions,” Cooper explained. “Don’t focus so much on the number of predicted storms, or the forecasted intensity. The effects could be just as damaging and deadly if a tropical storm became stationary. All it takes is one storm, so the message is to be prepared at all times for any scenario. Make a plan, create a kit, stay informed, and get engaged.”
Sussex County, like other coastal areas from the Caribbean to Canada, faces risks from tropical weather including flooding and strong winds. The county experienced no direct impacts from tropical systems during the 2025 season, as storms tracked away from the area.
Last year’s Atlantic hurricane season was slightly below average, producing 13 named storms with five becoming hurricanes. Four of those reached major hurricane status and caused billions in damage.
For 2026, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecasts another below-normal season with eight to 14 named systems expected. Three to six could strengthen into hurricanes, with one to three potentially reaching Category 3 intensity or higher, according to NOAA’s May 21 forecast. A strong El Niño pattern is expected to influence this season.
El Niño conditions typically reduce Atlantic hurricane development, leading to average or below-average seasons. During this phase, warmer waters in the equatorial eastern Pacific create atmospheric conditions that produce wind shear and inhibit storm formation. The opposite occurs during La Niña years when cooler Pacific waters can lead to increased Atlantic hurricane activity.
Based on NOAA’s 30-year average, a typical Atlantic hurricane season produces 14 named storms, seven hurricanes, and three major hurricanes.
Emergency officials emphasize that preparation remains crucial regardless of seasonal forecasts, as a single storm can cause devastating impacts.
Residents can enhance their safety by creating a household Safety Profile through the free Smart911™ service, which provides first responders with potentially life-saving information. Users can include property details, medical conditions, and family contact information.
Officials recommend several key preparation steps for hurricane season:
Residents in flood-prone or vulnerable areas should prepare evacuation plans now. Emergency managers will announce evacuation areas and timing through media outlets. Those evacuating should take storm kits, valuable papers, secure their homes by locking doors and windows, shut off utilities, and notify family members outside the evacuation zone of their destination.
Property owners should secure outdoor items and boats, clear gutters and rainspouts, and trim trees that could pose hazards during high winds.
Every family should assemble a disaster kit containing: a three-day water supply (one gallon per person daily), non-perishable food and manual can opener, clothing and shoes for each person, prescription medications, blankets or sleeping bags and pillows, personal hygiene items, flashlights and extra batteries for each person, special needs items like baby formula and supplies for elderly or disabled family members, portable radio with extra batteries, cash for when ATMs don’t work during power outages, and fuel since gas pumps also fail during outages.
When storms approach, travel during daylight and don’t wait until the last minute for supplies or gasoline. Monitor storm updates on radio and television when watches are issued, as evacuations may need to begin 24 to 36 hours before a storm arrives.
Those ordered to evacuate should follow local emergency managers’ instructions on shelter locations and timing. Authorities will announce shelter sites in advance, potentially opening multiple locations for larger populations.
Residents not ordered to evacuate who shelter at home should prepare disaster kits, keep important documents in waterproof containers in the highest, safest location, secure homes by locking doors and windows, turn off utilities, monitor portable radio for updates, stay indoors in interior rooms away from doors and windows.
Phone use should be limited to essential calls kept brief, with emergencies reported to 911. When calling for help, identify yourself and location clearly and calmly. Keep mobile phones charged, though cell service may be interrupted during and after storms.
Hurricanes and tropical storms can cause severe damage including polluted water, communication failures, power outages, sewer backups, foundation damage, beach erosion, and extensive property and road damage.
After storms pass, residents shouldn’t return until authorities give clearance. Upon re-entry, watch for hazards like downed trees and power lines, debris and standing water on roads. Have identification and legal documents ready to prove residency. Continue using emergency water supplies or boil water until officials confirm drinking water safety, and take fire prevention precautions.
Additional hurricane preparation information, including Know Your Zone evacuation maps, preparedness materials, and volunteer opportunities with Community Emergency Response Teams or amateur radio operators, is available at Sussex County’s hurricane website at www.sussexcountyde.gov/hurricane-information, PrepareDE’s site at www.preparede.org, and NOAA Weather Ready Nation at www.weather.gov/wrn/.
