Marine Corps Support Facility Blount Island

All,

Tuesday marks the first day of hurricane season (1 June - 30 Nov).

NOAA is predicting an above-normal 2021 Atlantic hurricane season. The outlook predicts a 60% chance of an above-normal season, a 30% chance of a near-normal season, and only a 10% chance of a below-normal season. Note: This year’s prediction is similar to last year’s prediction and last year was a record breaking hurricane season.

NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center is forecasting a likely range of 13 to 20 named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher), of which 6 to 10 could become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including 3 to 5 major hurricanes (category 3, 4 or 5; with winds of 111 mph or higher).

It only takes one storm to make it a bad year so now is the time to get prepared at work and at home.

As with every hurricane season, the need to be prepared is critically important because continuing to conduct the preventive measures to keep you safe from COVID-19 may impact the disaster preparedness plan you have in place, including what is in your go-kit, evacuation routes, shelters, and more.

Below are some links to information to help you get prepared for hurricane season.

Duval County Emergency Preparedness Guide: http://www.coj.net/departments/fire-and-rescue/docs/emergency-preparedness/get-ready/jaxready-emergency-preparedness-guide-2019-final.aspx

Ready Marines: https://www.ready.marines.mil

MCSF BI Website: https://www.bic.marines.mil/

*** Sharepoint: MCSF BI Destructive Weather Handbook/DW Checklist 2021: https://bicsp/sites/MCSF-BI/MissionAssurance/Shared%20Documents/Forms/AllItems.aspx?RootFolder=%2Fsites%2FMCSF%2DBI%2FMissionAssurance%2FShared%20Documents%2FDestructive%20Weather%20Handbook%20and%20Checklist&FolderCTID=0x012000FA7955245637E94B956FE46605F5D4C2&View=%7B509503AF%2D8A34%2D4CAF%2DA35B%2D3319B038AF1B%7D

It is important to remember that destructive weather can happen very quickly, especially in Florida.

****Please ensure that all equipment that can be damaged or turned into a missile hazard during strong winds be secured before leaving work each day.

• While the CDC considers the Novel Coronavirus a serious situation and is taking preparedness measures, the immediate risk in the U.S. is considered LOW, based on information the CDC has available. Everyone should always take simple daily precautions to help prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses.
  
  To learn more, see the CDC Website at: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

  OR the Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center web page which reflects the CDC updates and guidance at: https://www.med.navy.mil/sites/nmcphc/program-and-policy-support/Pages/Novel-Coronavirus.aspx
  
  For a brief overview slide from our installation emergency manager, click here.

• Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Preventative Measures and Travel Advisories Brief from the Installation Emergency Manager (Updated March 13, 2020)