Hurricanes increasing in strength

ABC13.com posted a story from the Associated Press that, as a resident in a Hurricane-friendly city, I found very interesting.

Hurricanes getting stronger study finds

The number of hurricanes in the most powerful categories — like Katrina and Andrew — has increased sharply over the past few decades, according to a new analysis sure to stir debate over whether global warming is worsening these deadly storms.

While studies have not found an overall increase in tropical storms worldwide, the number of storms reaching categories 4 and 5 grew from about 11 per year in the 1970s to 18 per year since 1990, according to a report in Friday’s issue of the journal Science.

It’s been more than 20 years since a strong hurricane has hit Houston, and many argue that the city is not prepared. I don’t know about that. I do know that I’m not certain that my family would be prepared to deal with the fallout of something like what recently happened in New Orleans. If there are those of you out there that believe otherwise, then you’re lucky… or deluded.

The American Red Cross has a “Get Prepared” section that should provide valuable information on getting your family ready for the worst-case scenario.