Thursday, October 1, 2026
Living within walking distance of the beach comes with the looming threat of one recurring natural hazard. The Atlantic Hurricane Season — which runs from June 1 through Nov. 30 — causes catastrophes every year.
While this season is projected to be below normal with activity, the National Weather Service still anticipates as many as six storms may become hurricanes, half of which are expected to become major hurricanes.
No matter the storm, catastrophes are powerful
Rather than moving under their own power, Hurricanes are steered across the ocean by large-scale wind patterns and high-pressure systems. On the East Coast, storms are often grabbed by prevailing winds, which blow from west to east, often causing storms to recurve, turning northward before moving to the northeast. Once hurricanes make landfall, their impacts can be unpredictable.
Despite weakening to a tropical storm after making landfall, Hurricane Agnes left parts of New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland and Virginia with flooding. The storm caused more than $20 billion in estimated damages, according to the National Weather Service. In 2012, Hurricane Sandy devastated New York, inflicting nearly $98 million in damages and killing 48 people.
How to prepare for hurricane season
The American Red Cross encourages households to prepare for natural disasters and to sign up for free emergency alerts. The Red Cross also urges residents to have “go-kits” including three days of supplies and “stay-at-home kits,” lasting two weeks, filled with critical supplies such as food, water, medicine and other necessities.
In the event of a hurricane watch — threat of landfall within 48 hours — Long Beach officials urge residents to assemble supply kits, follow the storm on news outlets, fill vehicle gas tanks and bring loose items like outdoor furniture, trash cans and plants inside. If a hurricane warning is issued — 36 hours until landfall— residents are encouraged to listen to local officials for advisement on sheltering in place and evacuation.
Community organizations in Long Beach
In the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, Long Beach sustained $150 million in damages. Returning Long Beach to normal took time, with the help of local organizations. The Long Beach COAD is a coalition of nonprofits, faith-based groups and city partners. Formed in the wake of Sandy by former City Councilwoman Liz Treston, the network organizes volunteers, distribute supplies, and ensures the barrier island remains resilient and prepared for future emergencies.
Treston said the city uses a platform called Genasys, which community members can sign up for on the city’s webpage. “It’s important that residents remain informed by downloading information that is accurate,” Treston said. “In all emergencies, communication is vital.”
