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HURRICANES
A hurricane is a tropical storm
with winds that can reach a constant 74 miles per hour or more. (Storms with winds of 39 to 73 miles per hour are called tropical storms.) Every year there
are approximately ten tropical storms that develop over
the Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, and Atlantic Ocean, six of which will develop into hurricanes. Many
of these storms never reach land—however, the United States falls victim to approximately
five hurricanes every three years. Of these five, three will be considered
category 3 or higher, meaning the hurricane has sustained
winds of 111 miles per hour or higher.
Timely warnings have greatly reduced
hurricane fatalities. However, knowing how to protect
yourself and your property in the event that one occurs
is extremely important.
- If a hurricane warning is issued,
listen for weather updates and stay informed.
- Have a hurricane evacuation kit
containing medicine, a first aid kit, blankets, a flashlight
with extra batteries, extra clothing, and important
documents handy. If an evacuation is ordered, do so
immediately.
- Stay informed, be prepared, and
know how to react appropriately in the event a hurricane
strikes—it can mean the difference between life
and death.
For more information about hurricanes
and hurricane preparedness, see the following sites:
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