Hurricanes

• STORM SURGE - A hurricane can produce destructive storm surge, which is water that is pushed toward the shore by the force of the winds. This advancing surge combines with the normal tides to inundate normally dry land in feet of water. The stronger the storm, the higher the storm surge.

• INLAND FLOODING - In the last 30 years, inland flooding has been responsible for more than half the deaths associated with tropical cyclones in the United States.
• HIGH WINDS - Hurricane-force winds can destroy poorly constructed buildings and mobile homes. Debris such as signs, roofing material, and small items left outside become flying missiles in hurricanes.
• TORNADOES - Hurricanes can produce tornadoes that add to the storm's destructive power. Tornadoes are most likely to occur in the right-front quadrant of the hurricane.

Graphical Hurricane Local Statement: Issued by local National Weather Service offices to provide more specific information about potential impacts of a tropical storm or hurricane on a particular area.

When a HURRICANE WATCH is issued, it means that hurricane conditions are possible within the watch area. The hurricane watch is issued 48 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical-storm-force winds. This watch should trigger your family's disaster plan, and proactive measures should be initiated especially those actions that require extra time such as securing a boat, leaving a barrier island, etc.

When a HURRICANE WARNING is issued, it means that hurricane conditions are expected within the warning area. The hurricane warning is issued 36 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical-storm-force winds. Once this warning has been issued, your family should be in the process of completing proactive actions and deciding the safest location to be during the storm.

Have a NOAA All-Hazards Weather Radio and battery backup to receive important weather and other emergency-related warnings.

• Build a disaster supply kit and have a family and/or business plan. Remember to also have a plan for pets.
• Before, During and After a Hurricane
• Evacuating Yourself and Your Family
• Determine if your home is in a storm surge evacuation zone. If so, learn what needs to be done if you evacuate or stay when a storm is moving toward your area.
• Mitigate Hurricane Damages
• Learn how to prepare your home from wind damage before a storm threatens your area.
• Consider insuring your home or business from flood loss.
• Make sure that all other aspects of your home are as protected from hurricanes as possible.

Alberto
Beryl
Chris
Debby
Ernesto
Francine
Gordon
Helene
Isaac
Joyce
Kirk
Leslie
Milton
Nadine
Oscar
Patty
Rafael
Sara
Tony
Valerie
William

Other Atlantic Tropical Cyclone Names