As students stare down the next six thunderous months of hurricane season, USF professors are encouraging students to prepare before a disaster hits.

This year’s hurricane season, which runs from June 1 through Nov. 30, is expected to have more storms than usual due to near-record warm temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean and La Nina conditions in the Pacific, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Amber Mehmood, a USF associate professor who specializes in disaster management, said preparing for the season is crucial because it can reduce the risks associated with hurricanes. 

“Preparedness also provides a sense [of] readiness and self-efficacy, which can positively impact mental health in case such an event happens,” Mehmood said.

Related: USF Botanical Gardens reflects on Hurricane Ian losses, recovery – The Oracle 

What to expect from USF

Hurricane season peaks between mid-August through mid-October, right as the fall semester kicks off. 

Related: OPINION: USF was put to the test with Hurricane Ian, and passed – The Oracle

USF’s hurricane guide says university officials will keep an eye on “the storm’s characteristics and the projected impact on our area.” However, the guide does not clarify what specific weather conditions warrant class cancellations and campus closures.

Mehmood said students should monitor USF’s websites to get the latest information on classes and evacuations.

“Storms are dynamic events, they change path, intensity and affect different locations at different times,” she said.

How to prepare

Preparation can include knowing what to do before, during and after a storm. Mehmood urged students to know about evacuation routes, have a plan for their pets and know which shelters are closest to them.

Shelters in Hillsborough County, including general, pet-friendly and special needs shelters, are opened on an “as-needed” basis, according to the county’s website.

Professor Robin Ersing, who has researched emergency preparedness and the impact of disasters, said students should stay informed, but through reliable sources, such as the National Weather Service.

“Having up to date information will help you make better decisions on whether you need to evacuate or shelter in place,” she said.

People should also communicate their plans to friends and family who will not be affected by the storm and to have a buddy system with other people enduring the storm.

Mehmood advised students to be aware of risk factors, such as being in a flood zone, and plan accordingly. 

Students can also take part in community emergency response training, a volunteer program by the Federal Emergency Management Agency that teaches basic emergency response skills.

Related: Student EMT’s care for special needs shelter patients amid Hurricane Ian – The Oracle

What to put in a hurricane kit

Florida’s Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holidays run from June 1-June 14 and Aug. 24-Sept. 6. Eligible items include pet supplies, generators, hurricane relief kit items and batteries. 

USF’s hurricane guide also encourages students to “get a kit,” including more than just a USF umbrella from the bookstore.

These kits should include items such as:

• Non-perishable food
• First-aid kit
• Water
• Batteries
• Flashlights
• Prescription medication
• Pet food
• Can opener

Ersing also advised students to get a cooler filled with ice to store perishable items for a couple days. Getting supplies early is key because shelves will empty quickly when a storm is coming, according to Ersing.

Mehmood said students should not rely on their cell phones and get battery operated radios and lamps to prepare for a long term power outage. 

“The most common mistake is trivializing the risk, not paying attention to the news, and not preparing in advance,” Mehmood said.

For more information on how to prepare, students can reference the Hillsborough County Disaster Guide or the county’s website.