Mother Nature reloads after gentle 2010 hurricane season in U.S.

A busy 2010 Atlantic hurricane season comes to a close today. Nineteen named storms in all—tying 1887 and 1995 for the third-highest year on record—wreaked havoc throughout the Caribbean and battered Mexico and Central America, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). But the U.S. came through relatively unscathed. "As NOAA forecasters predicted, the Atlantic hurricane season was one of the most active on record, though fortunately most storms avoided the U.S.," said Jack Hayes, Ph.D., director of NOAA's National Weather Service, in a statement. "For that reason, you could say the season was a gentle giant."

But there's nothing gentle about NOAA's prediction for the 2010-2011 winter storm season, thanks to the return of La Niña, a periodic cooling of Pacific Ocean waters that often spells extreme weather for the U.S. In the Pacific Northwest and Northern Plains, cooler and wetter than average conditions will probably lead to widespread storms and flooding. In the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions, La Niña will likely bring above-average snowfall.

Ahead of the nasty weather, check the Consumer Reports Storm & Emergency Guide for advice on preparing for devastating storms and disasters, including information on choosing a backup generator. Also check our latest report on snow blowers, with many models recommended for around $600. And to stay safe on the road, read "Winterizing your vehicle: a cold-weather survival guide for your car." 

—Daniel DiClerico