|
Understanding Terms
Tropical Depression—A tropical cyclone with maximum sustained winds of 38 mph (33 knots) or less.
Tropical Storm— A tropical cyclone with maximum sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph (34 to 63 knots).
Hurricane—A tropical cyclone with maximum sustained winds of 74 mph (64 knots) or higher. In the western North Pacific, hurricanes are called typhoons; similar storms in the Indian Ocean and South Pacific Ocean are called cyclones.
Major Hurricane—A tropical cyclone with maximum sustained winds of 111 mph (96 knots) or higher, corresponding to a Category 3, 4 or 5 on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale.
WHAT TO LISTEN FOR:
HURRICANE/TROPICAL STORM WATCH: Hurricane/tropical storm conditions are possible in the specified area of the watch, usually within 48 hours of the onset of tropical storm force winds.
|
Hurricane Season Begins JUNE 1
Educate yourself and be prepared for this season:
During a Watch, prepare your home and review your plan for evacuation in case a Hurricane/Tropical Storm Warning is issued. Listen closely to instructions from local officials.
HURRICANE/TROPICAL STORM WARNING: Hurricane/tropical storm conditions are expected in the specified area of the Warning, usually within 36 hours of the onset of tropical storm force winds. Complete storm preparations and immediately leave the threatened area if directed by local officials.
EXTREME WIND WARNING: Extreme sustained winds of a major hurricane (115 mph or greater),usually associated with the eyewall, are expected to begin within an hour. Take immediate shelter in the interior portion of a well-built structure.
Read regular weather update in the SEVERE WEATHER INFORMATION section of our website.
Hurricane Information:
|
Disaster Preparation
Before the Hurricane Season:
-Determine safe evacuation routes inland.
-Learn locations of official shelters.
-Check emergency equipment, such as flashlights, generators and battery-powered equipment such as cell phones and your NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards receiver.
-Buy food that will keep and store drinking water.
-Buy plywood or other material to protect your home if you don’t already have it.
-Trim trees and shrubbery so branches don’t fly into your home.
-Clear clogged rain gutters and downspouts.
-Decide where to move your boat.
-Review your insurance policy.
-Find pet-friendly hotels on your evacuation route.
|