Hurricanes

In South Florida, hurricanes are the most potent, devastating natural phenomenon. During the hurricane season, which lasts from June 1 to November 30 every year, an average of 12 tropical storms, 6 of which intensify into hurricanes, originate over the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, or Gulf of Mexico. During the hurricane season, which lasts from June 1 to November 30 every year, an average of 3 tropical storms, 2 of which develop into hurricanes, originate or pass over the Central Pacific Ocean. Typhoons hit Guam, the Northern Marianas, and Micronesia all year long, although the primary period is from July to November, peaking from mid-August to mid-September.

An average of three hurricanes, one of which is a major storm, strike the U.S. coastline every two years (winds of 111 mph or greater). You may improve your chances of surviving by being aware of what to do before hurricane season starts, while a hurricane is approaching, when the storm is in your region, as well as what to do after a hurricane departs your area. If you or someone you know has experienced the effects of a hurricane, please share your experience, mentioning the town, state, and year when the incident occurred.. NS will then be given permission to use your story in instructional programs, so please take note of that. By spreading this knowledge, you could one day save someone's life.

Please read the accounts of survivors to get knowledge about preparation and safety.

The Hurricane Hazards

The hurricanes are the biggest hazard to people and property, while tropical storms and depressions may sometimes be quite bad. The main risks from tropical cyclones, which include tropical depressions, storms, and hurricanes, include storm surge floods, inland flooding from heavy rainfall, damaging winds, tornadoes, high surf, and rip currents.

The unexpected increase in water caused by a storm's winds is known as a storm surge. In the past, this risk has been the main factor in hurricane-related fatalities in the US. Storm surge and powerful waves can cause significant property damage and fatalities near the shore.

Storm surge, particularly in bays, rivers, and estuaries, can move several miles inland.

The second most common reason for fatalities from tropical storms making landfall is flooding from intense rainfall. These storms' widespread heavy rainfall frequently result in floods hundreds of kilometers inland. When a storm has passed, the flooding may continue for a few days.

Buildings and prefabricated houses can be completely destroyed by hurricane winds. During storms, objects left outside, such as signs and roofing debris, can become flying projectiles.

Tropical cyclones that make landfall may include tornadoes. Usually, these tornadoes form in rain bands far from the storm's center.

Strong winds from a tropical storm may generate dangerous waves that can be extremely hazardous to seafarers and coastal communities. Even when the hurricane is more than 1,000 miles away, these waves can result in dangerous rip currents, major beach erosion, and damage to buildings along the shoreline.

The optimum time to be ready for a storm is prior to the start of hurricane season on June 1 every year. Knowing how susceptible your house is to storm surge, floods, and wind is crucial.

Here is a list of things you should do AHEAD of hurricane season.

Recognize your zone: Do you reside close to the Atlantic or Gulf Coasts? By contacting your local government or emergency management office or by visiting the evacuation site website, you may learn if you reside in a hurricane evacuation region.

Create an emergency supply kit: assemble a fundamental emergency kit. Examine safety supplies including generators, storm shutters, and flashlights.

You should draft or revise your family's emergency plan. Decide how you and your family or close friends will communicate, where you will travel, and what you will do in case of emergency before the event arises. A copy of this plan should always be kept in your disaster supply bag or another secure location where you can access it from. Visit the emergency plan webpage at Ready.Gov to get started.

Examine your insurance contracts: Make sure you have sufficient coverage for your house and personal possessions by reviewing your insurance policy.

Knowing the significance of NWS watches and warnings is extremely important.

The Federal Alliance for Safe Homes offers preparation advice for your house.

Tips for Getting Ready for People with Chronic Illnesses

Kit of Basic Disaster Supplies

When assembling your kit, place all of the goods in airtight plastic bags and pack the whole thing into one or two easy-to-carry containers, such plastic bins or a duffel bag.

The following suggested things should be included in a basic emergency supplies kit:

Water (one gallon per person per day for several days, for drinking and sanitation)

Food (at least a several-day supply of non-perishable food)

Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert

Flashlight

First aid kit

Extra batteries

Whistle (to signal for help)

Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)

Plastic sheeting and duct tape (to shelter in place)

Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)

Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)

Manual can opener (for food)

Local maps

Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery

Additional Emergency Supplies

alert - warning

Since Spring of 2020, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended people include additional items in their kits to help prevent the spread of coronavirus or other viruses and the flu.

Based on your particular demands, take into account to include the following items in your emergency supplies kit:

Masks (for everyone ages 2 and above), soap, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces

Prescription medications. About half of all Americans take a prescription medicine every day. An emergency can make it difficult for them to refill their prescription or to find an open pharmacy. Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and vitamins to prepare for an emergency.

Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives

Prescription eyeglasses and contact lens solution

Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and diaper rash cream

Pet food and extra water for your pet

Cash or traveler's checks

Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container

Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person

Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes

Fire extinguisher

Matches in a waterproof container

Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items

Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils

Paper and pencil

Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

Resources included from the web:

https://www.weather.gov/safety/hurricane-plan

https://www.ready.gov/kit