Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler sits down each week with Southern Farm Network’s Rhonda Garrison to discuss “Today’s Topic.”
June 1 marks the start of the Atlantic hurricane season, and the forecast calls for an above average year, which is probably not something farmers want to hear.
Researchers at N.C. State University predict that the 2016 hurricane season will see 15 to 18 tropical storms and hurricanes forming in the Atlantic. This number is considerably higher than the average from 1950 to 2014, which is 11 named storms.
The forecast says eight to 11 storms this year may grow strong enough to become hurricanes, and three to five of them could become major hurricanes.
Commissioner Troxler encourages farmers to review their disaster plans and get ready for the season. Planning now can help reduce the damage from hurricanes and tropical storms later.
Farmers need to make preparations for their families, workers, equipment and buildings. They also need to have backup plans for electricity and drinkable water for their farm. Livestock operations should maintain emergency plans that address power needs and on-site feed capabilities. Also, identify places to relocate animals from low-lying areas.
For more information about steps farmers can take to reduce the impact of a hurricane or tropical storm, click here.
Click on the audio player below to listen to Commissioner Troxler and Rhonda talk about preparing for hurricane season.
[Audio:/wp-content/uploads/Troxler_5-31-16.mp3|titles=Today’s Topic for May 31]
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