Why are hurricanes given names?
Who decides? Hurricanes (and tropical storms) are given names to provide consistency in communication between weather organizations and the general public. This can also reduce confusion when two or more storms are active at the same time. Although different naming systems have been used, the National Weather Service and the World Meteorological Organization adopted a standardized naming system in 1979. This system consists of a list of alternating male and female names to be used each year. Each list is reused every six years. The only changes made to these lists occur if a name is retired. Names are retired if a storm results in substantial damage or death. What preparations can be taken before hurricane season? • Map an evacuation route. • Check with the local emergency management office or Red Cross to find the nearest shelters and any other emergency information for your community. • first aid kit, emergency food and water (with a nonelectric can opener), protective clothing, bedd
