Red Cross preparing for upcoming hurricane season; urges everyone to get ready too

The first official hurricane of the 2025 season has formed. The National Hurricane Center is tracking Hurricane Barbara and Tropical Storm Cosme, both in the eastern Pacific Ocean, off the coast of Mexico. Hurricane Barbara is expected to weaken to a tropical storm within several hours, still a good reminder: hurricane season is upon us and preparation is the best defense!

The Atlantic hurricane season started June 1, and experts report we could see several powerful storms before the season ends on November 30. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts there could be 13 to 19 storms strong enough to be named. Of these, six to 10 could become hurricanes with as many as five strengthening into major hurricanes with winds of 111 mph or higher. 

It only takes one of these powerful storms to cause overwhelming devastation. Hurricanes not only cause problems for people in coastal areas but can also cause damage hundreds of miles inland. If you live on the coast, you are most at risk for extreme winds and flooding from rain and storm surge. Live inland? You are at risk for wind, thunderstorms, flooding and power outages.

Even before the first hurricane forms, the American Red Cross is working behind the scenes to make sure people don’t have to face the worst alone. 

“At the Red Cross we never stop preparing for disasters because we know they can happen anytime, anywhere,” said John Montes, Red Cross regional disaster officer, Northern New England Region.  “It’s critical that people prepare in advance. Large disasters are occurring almost continuously, and it only takes one to change someone’s life forever.” 

To prepare for hurricanes, the Red Cross focuses on coordinating response plans and readying both volunteers and supplies. For example, the Red Cross works closely with government officials and community partners to ensure people will have access to safe shelter, food and water, and critical relief supplies when needed. We’re checking that our local response vehicles and warehouses are stocked and ready to go if needed. And finally, we’re actively recruiting and training volunteers who will be ready to step up and help their neighbors.

DTI 2025

Here in Northern New England, we continue to invest in and strengthen our disaster response teams. In late May, the Red Cross of Northern New England hosted its annual Disaster Training Institute in Pembroke, New Hampshire. 

"The annual Disaster Training Institute is an opportunity to convene our teams from across three states, develop training skills, and prepare for the upcoming storm season. We are building capacity and leadership for our region's future," Montes said.

The three-day, intensive event included 60 classes, hands-on exercises and workshops for volunteer disaster responders aimed at honing their skills, building volunteer bonds and growing in their roles. We welcomed approximately 125 participants from Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont.

Watch DTI's 2025 keynote address with Dr. Samantha Montano, a researcher, assistant professor and author of the book Disasterology. Dr. Montano spoke about her expertise as an emergency management researcher and volunteer roots and shared observations on the climate crisis, implications for disaster response and communities, and the path forward.

TAKE THESE STEPS TO GET READY FOR HURRICANE SEASON

Have plans to evacuate and to shelter safely at home. The evacuation plan should include knowing where to go, how to get there, and where to stay. The stay-at-home plan should focus on gathering the right supplies to live safely without power, water, gas, phone or internet for several days. 

Sign up for free local government emergency alerts, which will include important information such as evacuation orders in an emergency. Download the free Red Cross Emergency app for real-time weather alerts, open shelter locations and expert advice in both English or Spanish. 

HOW YOU CAN HELP 

People look to the Red Cross for assistance every day and our volunteers help and support them on what often is one of their worst days. Because the Red Cross is operating in a state of continuous disaster response, there is an urgent need for new volunteers. Visit redcross.org/volunteer to learn more and sign up for free online training today.

There is a critical need for these key positions:

• Disaster Action Team (DAT): Help families in your community after a home fire or other disaster. DAT team members provide emotional support, emergency financial assistance and information to help families begin to recover.
• Shelter Volunteers: Ensure needs of shelter residents are met and help them access additional services.
• Disaster Health/Mental Health Services: Use your professional skills as a licensed health care provider to help meet people’s immediate needs in emergency shelters and refer them for ongoing, specialized care.

Like the people we serve, the Red Cross is proud that our volunteers represent a wide array of cultures, backgrounds, ages, gender identities, lifestyles and beliefs. Everyone is welcome. Join us today.