Hurricane Awareness Week: Prepare Now for Active Season

Forecasters predict that the Atlantic hurricane season that begins on June 1 could be very active. Governor John C. Carney, Jr. has proclaimed May 27 to May 31 as Hurricane Awareness Week, and the Delaware Emergency Management Agency urges everyone to visit PrepareDE.org to find resources on how to “make a plan, build a kit, and stay informed.” Residents and visitors can also use the Know Your Zone tool to locate their evacuation zone, which can help inform when and how to evacuate in an emergency.

“It only takes one storm to have a major impact on Delaware. Preparing now is the best way to protect your family, home, or business,” advised A.J. Schall, Delaware Emergency Management Agency Director. “We continue coordinating with the National Weather Service and our state, county, and local partners to prepare for the upcoming hurricane season. There are simple things everyone can do – building an emergency kit, getting an insurance checkup, monitoring weather forecasts, and following guidance from public officials – that can go a long way toward ensuring Delaware is ready for any potential event.”

With extreme weather becoming more frequent and intense, it is critical for families and businesses to be informed and prepared. Hurricane Awareness Week is a timely reminder to take action now. NOAA’s official preseason outlook is forecasting an 85% chance of an above-normal season with 17 to 25 named storms and 4 to 7 major hurricanes due to an unprecedented ocean heat wave and a potential La Niña climate pattern. Colorado State University predicts 23 named storms, 11 hurricanes, and 5 major hurricanes. Climate scientists at the University of Pennsylvania anticipate 33 named storms, the highest ever. The previous La Niña in 2020 was a record-breaking year with 30 tropical storms and 14 hurricanes, topping a previous high of 27 storms in 2005, also a La Niña year that included the devastating Hurricane Katrina.

Regardless of the seasonal forecast, it only takes one storm to make a serious, life-changing impact. As a low-lying coastal state, Delaware is vulnerable to tropical storms and hurricane hazards, including coastal and inland flooding, high winds, rip currents, storm surges, and tornadoes. Flooding from Hurricane Ida in 2021 and tornadoes from Tropical Storm Isaias in 2020 show that severe effects often occur many miles from a storm’s path. Overall, water poses the biggest risk for loss of life: storm surge is the leading cause of all hurricane-related fatalities, followed by inland flooding due to excessive rainfall.

Hurricanes are the most intense type of tropical cyclone, a rotating weather system that forms over tropical or subtropical waters. In the Northern Hemisphere, cyclones rotate counterclockwise and are classified by maximum winds. Tropical depressions have winds up to 38 mph, tropical storms from 39 to 73 mph, and hurricanes 74 mph or higher. A “major hurricane” has at least 111 mph winds, corresponding to a Category 3, 4, or 5 on the Saffir-Simpson Wind Scale.

Make a Plan
preparede.org/make-a-plan

Plan what to do if a hurricane is coming, how to contact family, and know your county emergency plans.
Assess your risk. Find your evacuation zone at Know Your Zone or flood risk with the Flood Planning Tool.
Tornadoes, excessive rainfall, and life-threatening floods can occur hundreds of miles inland.
Declutter drains and gutters and inspect your trees. Consider trimming trees and dead limbs.
Protect your family and home with flood insurance. Most homeowner policies do not cover flooding. A policy can take up to 30 days to go into effect. Learn more at floodsmart.gov
Account for seniors and those with special needs with the DHSS Office of Preparedness and its Preparedness Buddy program. The University of Delaware has resources at allreadyde.org
Pets and Animals: Get resources at the Office of Animal Welfare and Delaware Animal Response Program.
Practice makes prepared! Once you have a plan, review it to ensure everyone knows what to do. Include children in your plan and help them practice it. Read Prepare with Pedro at ready.gov.

Build A Kit
preparede.org/build-a-kit

Gather supplies for at least one week for every family member: non-perishable food, water, medications, infant formula, and diapers for small children.
Include a first aid kit, flashlights, radios, matches in a waterproof container, and spare batteries.
Keep a small amount of cash if ATMs are not working.
Stockpile pet supplies, including crates, extra food and water, and other items pets may need.
Keep documents in a safe place or make secure digital copies. Use a waterproof container for copies.
Have a cell phone power bank or portable car charger and try to charge phones beforehand.
Make sure your car’s gasoline tanks are filled and replenish propane tanks for outdoor grills.
Consider a generator or other backup. Only use a generator OUTDOORS and away from windows.
Check on neighbors to ensure they are safe and prepared and have the necessary supplies.
Review insurance coverage and document property with photographs in case of an insurance claim.

Stay Informed
preparede.org/stay-informed

Sign up for emergency alerts through the Delaware Emergency Notification System (DENS). If an evacuation notice is issued, it will be sent by text, call, email, and social media.
Download the FEMA app to receive National Weather Service alerts for up to three locations.
Tune in to local TV or radio to learn about storms and potential evacuations for your specific zone.

The 2024 list of storms is very similar to the one from 2018. The World Meteorological Organization reuses the list every six years unless one name is so powerful or damaging that it is retired. Florence and Michael were retired from the 2018 season.

Tropical Cyclone Names for 2024: Alberto, Beryl, Chris, Debby, Ernesto, Francine, Gordon, Helene, Isaac, Joyce, Kirk, Leslie, Milton, Nadine, Oscar, Patty, Rafael, Sara, Tony, Valerie, and William.

Resources:

About DEMA

The Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) is the lead state agency for the coordination of comprehensive emergency preparedness, training, response, recovery, and mitigation services to save lives, protect Delaware’s economic base, and reduce the impact of emergencies. DEMA is a division within the Department of Safety and Homeland Security (DSHS) and is authorized by the Delaware Code.

Social Media:
Delaware Emergency Management Agency on Facebook X and Instagram

Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve Turns 30

The multiple-site Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve – with components at St. Jones in Dover and Blackbird Creek near Townsend (the aerial photo above) – includes both private and state-owned land managed by DNREC in conjunction with the National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). /DNREC photo

Components Include St. Jones in Dover, Blackbird Creek Near Townsend

The Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve will mark its 30th anniversary on Friday, July 21.

The National Estuarine Research Reserve System is a network of 30 coastal sites designated to protect and study estuarine systems. Established through the federal Coastal Zone Management Act, the reserves represent a partnership program between the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the coastal states. Combined, the research reserves cover nearly 1.4 million acres of estuaries and are focused on stewardship, research, training and education.

The Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve, otherwise known as DNERR, consists of two sites that were selected and nominated for inclusion in the national research reserve system by then-Governor Michael Castle. The multiple-site reserve – with components at St. Jones in Dover and Blackbird Creek near Townsend – includes both private and state-owned land managed by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control in conjunction with NOAA.

In 1993, following NOAA’s approval of the submitted management plan, DNERR became the 22nd reserve in the system, encompassing 3,800 acres. Then-Governor and current U.S. Sen. Thomas Carper signed the designation on July 21, 1993.
Currently, the reserve protects 6,364 acres, with 1,245 acres of freshwater wetlands, ponds and forest lands in Blackbird Creek, and 5,119 acres of salt marsh and open water habitats on the St. Jones River on Delaware Bay.

“Delaware is proud to be a part of the National Estuarine Research Reserve system and to contribute to their efforts at aiding conservation and management on both the local and national levels,” said DNREC Secretary Shawn M. Garvin. “The diverse range of habitats in Delaware makes our state an ideal location for research and training, and the initiatives undertaken there provide valuable information on keeping estuaries healthy.”

The Blackbird Creek Reserve boasts several miles of trails through uplands and along the marsh, a canoe/kayak launch, restoration demonstration areas, as well as a variety of programs and volunteer opportunities for the community, teachers, students, and families. It also supports ongoing research and monitoring, field studies, citizen monitoring programs and training opportunities for coastal decision-makers.

The St. Jones component includes a visitors center that is open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays (closed on weekends and holidays). It also features hiking trails, hands-on interactive activities and exhibits, restoration demonstration areas, St. Jones boat trips and a variety of programs throughout the year.

About DNREC
The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control protects and manages the state’s natural resources, protects public health, provides outdoor recreational opportunities and educates Delawareans about the environment. The DNREC Division of Climate, Coastal and Energy uses science, education, policy development and incentives to address Delaware’s climate, energy and coastal challenges. For more information, visit the website and connect with @DelawareDNREC on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or LinkedIn.

Media Contact: Michael Globetti, Michael.globetti@delaware.gov or Jim Lee, JamesW.Lee@delaware.gov

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Governor’s Office Seeks Nominees for Delaware’s Appointed Seat on Mid-Atlantic Fisheries Management Council

Nominating Applications Due March 4, 2022

The Office of Governor John Carney is seeking candidates to be nominated for Delaware’s Obligatory Seat on the Mid-Atlantic Fisheries Management Council (MAFMC). For consideration as a nominee by the Governor for submission to and selection by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), a candidate must be a Delaware resident and must complete and submit a nomination application detailing their fisheries background, experience and ability to serve as a council member. NOAA requires that the Governor of each MAFMC state submits at least three nominations for a council seat.

The MAFMC is responsible for managing fisheries in Mid-Atlantic federal waters extending from three to 200 miles offshore from New York through North Carolina. MAFMC members must be prepared to attend six MAFMC meetings a year during a three-year term, with each meeting typically lasting four days. Council members are compensated by the MAFMC for all travel expenses for transportation, hotel and meals, and will also receive a stipend of $519.28 per meeting day.

According to NOAA’s website, nominees’ eligibility for the position is based, in part, on their occupation or other related experience, scientific expertise or training – and they must be knowledgeable and experienced in one or more of the following areas related to the fishery resources within Mid-Atlantic federal waters:

Commercial fishing, aquaculture or the processing or marketing of fish, fish products or fishing equipment
Fishing for pleasure, relaxation or consumption, or experience in any business supporting fishing
Leadership in a state, regional or national organization whose members participate in a fishery in the Council’s area of authority
The management and conservation of natural resources, including related interactions with industry, government bodies, academic institutions and public agencies
Representing consumers of fish or fish products through participation in local, state or national organizations, or performing other activities specifically related to the education or protection of consumers of marine resources; or
Teaching, journalism, writing, consulting, practicing law or researching matters related to fisheries, fishery management and marine resource conservation.

Applications should be submitted to the DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife Fisheries Section by March 4, 2022. For a nomination application kit, please contact the Fisheries Section at 302-739-9914.

About DNREC
The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control protects and manages the state’s natural resources, protects public health, provides outdoor recreational opportunities, and educates Delawareans about the environment. The DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife conserves and manages Delaware’s fish and wildlife and their habitats, and provides fishing, hunting, wildlife viewing and boating access on nearly 68,000 acres of public land. For more information, visit the website and connect with @DelawareDNREC on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn.

Media Contacts: Michael Globetti, michael.globetti@delaware.gov; Nikki Lavoie, nikki.lavoie@delaware.gov

DNREC’s Division of Climate, Coastal & Energy seeks applicants for new NOAA estuary research fellowship

A researcher, research intern, and scholar conduct sediment core sampling in the salt marsh at the St. Jones Estuary in Dover. DNREC staff photo.

DOVER – The Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve, administered through DNREC’s Division of Climate, Coastal & Energy, is seeking applicants for a new two-year fellowship sponsored by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which shares oversight with DNREC for the state’s estuarine reserves on the St. Jones River near Dover and Blackbird Creek in Townsend.

“We are excited to be collaborating with NOAA in offering this new graduate fellowship opportunity,” said Kimberly Cole, Environmental Program administrator with DNREC’s Division of Climate, Coastal & Energy. “Fellows will select and work to address a key coastal management question in an effort to help DNREC scientists and coastal communities understand challenges that may influence policy and management strategies.”

NOAA’s Margaret A. Davidson Graduate Fellowship program provides students the opportunity to conduct collaborative research projects focused on the nation’s estuaries. Melissa Ladd, NOAA’s national coordinator of the program, said what makes the fellowship program exceptional is that focus. “We are dedicated to research that gives our communities the facts needed to make wise decisions when it comes to deciding how coastal resources are used and managed,” Ladd said. “This program also provides students with the experiences and professional growth skills that will serve them, and our environment, throughout their careers.”

The Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve (DNERR) is one of 29 reserves in the National Estuarine Research Reserve System, with the state’s two components, the St. Jones Reserve and the Blackbird Creek Reserve, focused on practicing and promoting coastal and estuarine stewardship through innovative research and education, using a system of protected areas.

Each of the national reserves in the system will host a fellowship program. These sites combine to protect 1.3 million estuarine acres, and are home to some of the nation’s most progressive science and educational programs. Each reserve designates its research priorities, from habitat changes to water quality and more.

Interested graduate students should work with their university or college faculty advisor to submit applications by Dec. 20, 2019. To apply, or for additional details and research priorities, visit NOAA’s fellowship website. For more information, please email OCM.DavidsonFellowship@noaa.gov.

For more DNREC information, visit Delaware Coastal Management Program or Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve.

Contact: Joanna Wilson, DNREC Public Affairs, 302-739-9902

Vol. 49, No. 216

Governor’s Office seeks nominees for Delaware’s appointed seat on the Mid-Atlantic Fisheries Management Council

DOVER – The Office of Governor John Carney is seeking candidates to be nominated for Delaware’s Obligatory Seat on the Mid-Atlantic Fisheries Management Council (MAFMC). To be eligible for consideration as a nominee by the Governor for selection to the MAFMC seat by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), individuals must be Delaware residents and must complete and submit a nomination application kit outlining their fisheries background, experience, and ability to serve as a council member.

According to NOAA’s website, nominees’ eligibility for the position is based, in part, on their occupation or other related experience, scientific expertise, or training, and they must be knowledgeable and experienced in one or more of the following areas related to the fishery resources within Mid-Atlantic federal waters:

Commercial fishing, aquaculture, or the processing or marketing of fish, fish products, or fishing equipment;
Fishing for pleasure, relaxation, or consumption, or experience in any business supporting fishing;
Leadership in a state, regional, or national organization whose members participate in a fishery in the Council’s area of authority;
The management and conservation of natural resources, including related interactions with industry, government bodies, academic institutions, and public agencies;
Representing consumers of fish or fish products through participation in local, state, or national organizations, or performing other activities specifically related to the education or protection of consumers of marine resources; or
Teaching, journalism, writing, consulting, practicing law, or researching matters related to fisheries, fishery management, and marine resource conservation.

Applications should be submitted to DNREC’s Division of Fish & Wildlife Fisheries Section by March 6, 2019. For a nomination application kit, please contact the Fisheries Section at 302-739-9914.

Follow the Division of Fish & Wildlife on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/DelawareFishWildlife.