Meteorologists are predicting that a “bombogenesis” will occur off the East Coast this week. What exactly does this mean?
A bombogenesis, or “bomb cyclone” as it’s been dubbed online, occurs when “an area of low pressure in the mid-latitudes drops more than 24 millibars in 24 hours,” according to CNN’s Nicole Chavez. When this happens, hurricane force winds can be the result. While bomb cyclones are not hurricanes, many still call these types of low-pressure systems winter hurricanes.
The low-pressure system meteorologists are expecting, in the midst of this 11-day cold snap, is already bringing snow to Florida. The National Weather Service issued a warning that “Arctic air mass will remain entrenched over the eastern two-thirds of the country through the end of the week,” adding to the dangers of the bomb cyclone.
While you can’t stop the bomb cyclone from occurring this weekend, here are three easy things you can do to prepare for its arrival.
1. Check Your Fuel Levels
Be sure to top off all generators and mission-critical fuel tanks prior to the storm’s arrival. This preemptive measure can reduce downtime if the storm’s hurricane-like winds blow down power lines in your area. Remember, to help prevent deadly carbon monoxide poisoning, generators must remain outside your home or business.
2. Call an Emergency Fuel Provider Before the Storm
Contact an emergency fuel provider, like Atlas Oil, to discuss your emergency fueling plans and arrange for potential fuel deliveries before the storm arrives. Atlas Oil offers fuel assurance plans that guarantee fuel to our contracted customers regardless of circumstance. These fuel and generator assurance plans eliminate downtime, ensuring that your mission-critical organization stays up and running at all times.
3. Make Your "Disaster Kit" Early
Lastly, make sure your “disaster kit” is fully stocked in case of a power outage. Bottled water, nonperishable food, a flashlight, and fully charged electronics are just a few essentials to include in your kit. Whenever safe and possible, check on neighbors to make sure everyone in your community is prepared for the 2018 bomb cyclone.
For questions about how to prepare your business or mission-critical organization for the bomb cyclone or to create your unique guaranteed fuel plan, contact Atlas Oil Company’s Emergency Fueling Team at 800.878.2000.