CONTRIBUTING WRITER: Zachary Eichholz, Sustainability Manager, City of Cape Canaveral
Wind and water will not be the only threats facing the City of Cape Canaveral this year during the 2020 Atlantic hurricane season. Storm planning and preparation will also unfortunately have to take into account the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. In light of what is expected to be a very active hurricane season, the City is researching and implementing numerous precautionary measures to combat these issues.
The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30. According to numerous private, public and university forecasting teams this year’s hurricane season could see anywhere from 14 to 20 named storms, with a high likelihood that at least some will have US impacts. The average among all official predictions is 17 named storms with eight hurricanes.
To prepare, City Staff have begun installing semi-permanent metal flood barriers that take the place of traditional sandbags. These new barriers are mounted on pre-installed holding racks affixed to door frames in as little as 30 seconds by a single staff member, replacing hours of time spent on filling and placing sandbags. These barriers will be used only when all occupants have left buildings. The City now also has its first mobile solar generator that does not require any gasoline or diesel fuel. It can continuously recharge after a storm via a one-kilowatt solar array to power City mobile devices, computers and lighting systems. Staff will also be utilizing a new handheld radio system to ensure consistent communications even if cell coverage goes down.
COVID-19 has added another element of preparation for City Staff, with an ever-present risk of localized outbreaks of the disease that are most likely to last well into next year until a vaccine is developed. Staff hurricane training has been conducted virtually, additional personal protective equipment (PPE) has been ordered and the City has stocked additional supplies of food and water. The City has also hosted a virtual preparation meeting for residents via the National Weather Service Melbourne Office.
Other measures being taken to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19 include:
- The installation of plexiglass barriers across previously unprotected receptionists.
- Scoping for the installation of Ultraviolet (UV)/Bi-Polar Ionization equipment within facility HVAC systems to disinfect air handlers and ductwork.
- The development of a COVID-19 Reopening and Mitigation Strategy document to map out a phased and safe reopening of City facilities and services.
- The purchasing of no contact thermometers to take Staff temperatures.
- The procurement of a mobile UV disinfection lamp for new deep cleaning procedures of City facilities and fleet vehicles.
Please stay safe this hurricane season in the time of COVID-19. Make sure you have an evacuation plan and enough supplies (don’t forget pets) to last you and each member of your family for at least a week. Follow the National Hurricane Center and the City on social media for continuing hurricane and COVID-19 updates.
