Hurricane Preparedness 101 NOAA, The National Weather Service / National Hurricane Center

Hurricane Season in the Atlantic runs from June 1st until November 30th

A NEWER VERSION OF THIS PAGE APPEARS HERE.

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

• Basics 
• Storm Surge 
• Marine Safety 
• High Winds 
• Tornadoes 
• Inland Flooding

Hurricane Information

• Forecast Process
• Disaster Preparedness
• Actions to Take When a Tropical Storm or Hurricane Threatens

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

• Tropical Cyclone Preparedness Guide (pdf)
• Weather-Ready Nation Videos
• Ready.gov

Read more and get updates via nhc.noaa.gov

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The Bamboo Room in Lake Worth Florida is Closing

Sad news. Another Live Music Venue in South Florida is closing.

taken from The Bamboo Room's website:

Tue. 05.13.2008
Bamboo Room Will Go Dark, For Now -- Club Closing May 31

There’s an old adage that the bar business is recession-proof, but Bamboo Room is first and foremost a live music venue and we are not immune. Rising fuel costs make it increasingly difficult for national touring acts to include South Florida in their routing plans. Coupled with lower concert attendance during the summer, the truth is simple to understand -- particularly when heard directly from those sources.

We have thoughtfully reviewed recent economic issues that weigh on both performers and patrons. To compensate for the downturn, Bamboo Room recently adopted an abbreviated schedule for the first time in its nine-year history. Yet it soon became clear that it would be difficult to remain open through the summer. As a result we will close our doors May 31. A healthier economy will be key to operating during the winter season, much as was common in Florida not so long ago.

The trust and honesty of our relationships with artists, patrons and the media will remain firm... as has been our commitment to excellence in live music presentation. Our dedicated, excellent and valued staff will be kept apprised of future plans. We remain optimistic that the cultural and economic climate will improve.

The soul of Bamboo Room will continue to resonate with the sound of Roots, Blues and Americana.

Sincerely,

Russell Hibbard
Owner

The Bamboo Room had great site lines, a fantastic beer and whiskey selection and nobody could argue about the long list of lot of top talent they brought down to South Florida. And over the years even relaxed their uptight rules, a tad :)

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