Hurricane Preparedness 101 NOAA, The National Weather Service / National Hurricane Center
Hurricane Season in the Atlantic runs from June 1st until November 30th
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A hurricane is a type of storm called a tropical cyclone, which forms over tropical or subtropical waters. Tropical cyclones with maximum sustained surface winds of less than 39 miles per hour (mph) are called tropical depressions. Those with maximum sustained winds of 39 mph or higher are called tropical storms. When a storm's maximum sustained winds reach 74 mph, it is called a hurricane. The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale (SSHWS) is a 1 to 5 rating, or category, based on a hurricane's maximum sustained winds. The higher the category, the greater the hurricane's potential for property damage.
- Category One 74–95 mph
- Category Two 96–110 mph
- Category Three 111–129 mph
- Category Four 130–156 mph
- Category Five ≥ 157 mph
Disaster Supply Kit
- Water - at least 1 gallon daily per person for 3 to 7 days
- Freezer - set to coldest setting
- Freeze gallon size ziplock bags and gallon water jugs with water, leaving at least 2 inches room in container for expansion when frozen
- Move frozen blocks to refrigerator when power goes out
- Food - at least enough for 3 to 7 days
- non-perishable packaged or canned food / juices
- foods for infants or the elderly
- snack foods, crackers & chips
- non-electric can opener
- cooking tools / fuel
- paper plates / plastic utensils - Blankets / Pillows, etc.
- Clothing - seasonal / rain gear/ sturdy shoes
- First Aid Kit / Medicines / Prescription Drugs
- Special Items - for babies and the elderly
- Toiletries / Hygiene items / Moisture wipes
- Rechargeable Portable Fan - make a breeze while power is out (Amazon has some)
- Flashlight / Batteries
- Radio - Battery operated and NOAA (weather radio)
- Telephones - Fully charged cell phone with extra batteries and a traditional (not cordless) telephone set
- Cash (with some small bills) and Credit Cards - Banks and ATMs may not be available for extended periods
- Keys - house, safety deposit box, car, shed, storage unit
- Toys, Books and Games
- Important documents - in a waterproof container or watertight resealable plastic bag - insurance, medical records, bank account numbers, Social Security card, utility bill for proof of residence, etc.
- Computer - charge up laptop and notebook, and take chargers
- Camera - charge camera, use to photograph damage for insurance claims, charger
- Tools - keep a set with you during the storm
- Hammer, Saw, Axe - if you think you will need to climb onto roof in a flood
- Duct tape and plastic sheeting to cover openings
- Vehicle - fuel tanks filled
- Pet care items
- proper identification / immunization records / medications
- ample supply of food and water
- carrier or cage
- muzzle and leash
History teaches that a lack of hurricane awareness and preparation are common threads among all major hurricane disasters. By knowing your vulnerability and what actions you should take, you can reduce the effects of a hurricane disaster. The NWS has a preparation page on their site.
Live near the coast? Find Your Evacuation Zone on flash.org (PDF)
Hurricane Hazards
Hurricane Information
You should be able to answer the following questions before a hurricane threatens:
- What are the Hurricane Hazards?
- What does it mean to you?
- What actions should you take to be prepared?
Resources
Read more and get updates via nhc.noaa.gov
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