A hurricane is a type of tropical cyclone,
the generic term for a low pressure system
that generally forms in the tropics. A cyclone
is accompanied by thunderstorms, and in the
Northern Hemisphere, a counterclockwise circulation
of winds near the earth's surface. To assist
you with your hurricane planning, review
the following information.
All Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico coastal
areas are subject to hurricanes or tropical
storms. Parts of the Southwest United States
and the Pacific Coast experience heavy
rains and floods each year from hurricanes
spawned off Mexico. The Atlantic hurricane
season lasts from June to November, with
the peak season from mid-August to late
October.
These storms can cause catastrophic damage
to coastlines and several hundred miles
inland with winds in excess of 155 mph.
Hurricanes and tropical storms can also
spawn tornadoes and microbursts, create
storm surges along the coast, and cause
extensive damage from heavy rainfall. Hurricanes
are classified into five categories (1-5)
based on their wind speed, central pressure,
and damage potential. Category Three and
higher hurricanes are considered major;
however, Category One and Two are still
extremely dangerous and require your utmost
attention.
Remember a key element of your planning
should be the collection of specific survival
gear and critical hurricane supplies. While
preparing for a hurricane may be your primary
concern, preparation for other hazards
should also be considered in your emergency
planning process.
Familiarize yourself with these terms
to help identify a hurricane hazard.
Sustained Winds - Are defined as
one-minute average wind measured
at about 33 feet above the ground
Tropical Depression - An organized system
of clouds and thunderstorms with a defined
surface circulation and maximum sustained winds
of 38 MPH or less.
Tropical Storm - An organized system of strong
thunderstorms with a defined surface circulation
and maximum sustained winds of 39-72 mph.
Hurricane - An intense tropical weather system
of strong thunderstorms with a well-defined
surface circulation and maximum sustained winds
of 74 mph or greater.
Storm Surge - A dome of water pushed onshore
by hurricane and tropical storm winds. Storm
surges can reach 25 feet high and be 50-100
miles wide.
Storm Tide - A combination of storm surge
and the normal tide.
Hurricane/Tropical Storm Watch - Hurricane/tropical
storm conditions are possible in the specified
area, usually within 36 hours. Tune to NOAA
Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television
for information.
Hurricane/Tropical Storm Warning - Hurricane/tropical
storm conditions are expected in the specified
area, usually within 24 hours.
Short Term Watches and Warnings - These warnings
provide detailed information about specific
hurricane threats, such as flash floods and
tornadoes.
Your hurricane planning should address the following
scenarios and your hurricane supplies and kits
should support you during all potential scenarios.
If a hurricane is likely in your area:
Listen to radio and TV for information.
Secure your home, close storm shutters, and
secure outdoor objects or bring them indoors.
Turn off utilities (gas, water, electrical)
at the main valves/switches if instructed to
do so. Otherwise turn the refrigerator thermostat
to its coldest setting and keep doors closed.
Turn off propane tanks.
Avoid using the phone except for serious
emergencies.
Moor your boat if time permits.
Locate your Hurricane Kits.
Ensure a supply of water for sanitary purposes
such as cleaning and flushing toilets. Fill
the bathtub and other large containers with
water.
You should evacuate under the following conditions:
If you are directed by local authorities
to do so. Be sure to follow their instructions
and take your Survival Kit(s) with you.
If you live in a mobile home or temporary
shelter - such shelters are particularly hazardous
during hurricanes no matter how well fastened
to the ground.
If you live in a high-rise building - hurricane
winds are stronger at higher elevations.
If you live on the coast, on a floodplain,
near a river, or on an inland waterway.
