The 2021 hurricane season proved to be another milestone event in the meteorological world, as it was the third most active Atlantic hurricane season on record.
Not only was this the second season in a row that the storm name list was depleted, it was also the sixth consecutive year where tropical cyclone activity was above average. Last year’s hurricane season produced 21 tropical storms, seven hurricanes and four major hurricanes, causing 80 billion dollars in damages making it the third costliest hurricane season.
Out of all of these storms, only three impacted operations at Eglin.
The squadron works in tandem with the National Hurricane Center and National Weather Service to identify any potential threats to Eglin and its numerous operating areas. The weather team continually monitors 41 million square miles across the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico for potential tropical weather threats.
The 2022 hurricane season is projected to be the seventh consecutive year in a row where tropical cyclone activity will be above average. Similar to 2020 and 2021, the re-emergence of the La Niña climate pattern, coupled with warmer than normal water temperatures across the Gulf of Mexico, will set the conditions for a potentially busy hurricane season.
With the increased chance for a major hurricane to make landfall, it is critical for our teammates and families to ensure they have hurricane supplies ready and evacuation plans in place.
Throughout hurricane season, the 96th Weather Squadron works to track and interpret meteorological data, providing optimum recommendations to Team Eglin leadership.
Along with hurricane preparedness, the 96th WS also plays an integral part in installation recovery. The squadron deploys tactical teams, who shelter in place during a hurricane, equipped with mobile weather tools to reestablish local weather operations. This procedure plays a vital role in returning the airfield and installation back to operational status, allowing for critical recovery efforts.
It is important for Team Eglin personnel and their families to be up to date on the current weather situation. The base community is advised to watch for any updates from the 96th WS, Eglin’s Emergency Operations Center, and installation leadership to prepare for any immediate actions when threatening weather approaches. Remember, it only takes one hurricane, so be prepared and be ready.
The 96th Civil Engineer Group will host hurricane preparedness briefings at the Eglin Enlisted Hall June 1 and 3 at 9 and 11 a.m. and 1 and 3 p.m.