TAMPA, Fla. – MAY 6, 2024 – The 2024 hurricane season is on the horizon and the American Red Cross urges Floridians to make their preparations now.
Experts predict an "extremely active" season, with early outlooks indicating there could be a near-record number of storms this year. Forecasters are calling for as many as 25 named storms with four to six having a direct impact on the U.S.
CLIMATE CRISIS The effects of the climate crisis continue to mount a devastating toll. This year’s outlook is part of a multi-year trend of more frequent and intense hurricanes related to climate conditions. In the last 10 years, the number of billion-dollar U.S. disasters has increased 85%, and hurricanes have accounted for eight of the 10 most costly weather disasters.
GET READY NOW National Hurricane Preparedness Week is May 5-11. There are simple steps you can take to be prepared:
In addition to taking these preparedness steps, the Red Cross has resources and additional tips on hurricane safety.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Because of the climate crisis, the Red Cross is now launching nearly twice as many relief operations for major disasters than we did a decade ago. This growing need for assistance is prompting us to increase our volunteer capacity so we can continue responding on a near-constant basis.
The need to help during disasters has never been greater. Join us to provide relief and hope when it matters most. Visit redcross.org/volunteertoday to sign up for opportunities with your local chapter. Our most-needed disaster positions include supporting shelters and providing health services.
The American Red Cross of Central Florida and the U.S. Virgin Islands serves 19 Florida counties through five chapters: Florida’s Space Coast (Daytona Beach), Greater Orlando, Mid-Florida (Winter Haven), Southwest Florida (Sarasota) and Tampa Bay; and the Virgin Islands territories of St. Thomas, St. Croix, St. John and Water Island. For more information, visit redcross.org. Also find us on Facebook and X (Twitter).
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
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