Hurricane Preparedness
Hurricanes are products of the tropical ocean and atmosphere. Powered by heat from
the sea, they are steered by the easterly trade winds and the temperate westerly
winds, as well as by their own energy. As they move ashore, they bring with them
a storm surge of ocean water along the coastline, high winds, tornadoes, torrential
rains, and flooding. Each year on average, ten tropical storms develop over the
Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, or Gulf of Mexico. About six of these typically strengthen
enough to become hurricanes. Many of these remain over the ocean with little or
no impact on the continental United States. However, about five hurricanes strike
the United States coastline every three years. Here is how you can be prepared.
Before a Hurricane
- Make plans to secure your property. Permanent storm shutters offer the best protection
for windows. A second option is to board up windows with 5/8” marine plywood, cut
to fit and ready to install. Tape does not prevent windows from breaking.
- Install straps or additional clips to securely fasten your roof to the frame structure.
This will reduce roof damage. • Be sure trees and shrubs around your home are well
trimmed.
- Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts.
- Determine how and where to secure your boat.
During a Hurricane
If a hurricane is likely in your area, you should:
- Listen to the radio or TV for information.
- Secure your home, close storm shutters, and secure outdoor objects or bring them
indoors.
- Turn off utilities if instructed to do so. Otherwise, turn the refrigerator thermostat
to its coldest setting and keep its doors closed.
- Turn off propane tanks.
- Avoid using the phone, except for serious emergencies.
- Moor your boat if time permits.
- Ensure a supply of water for sanitary purposes such as cleaning and flushing toilets.
Fill the bathtub and other large containers with water.
Useful Links
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is a federal agency
focused on the condition of the oceans and the atmosphere. Its mission is to understand
and predict changes in the Earth’s environment and conserve and manage coastal and
marine resources to meet our nation’s economic, social and environmental needs.
The National Weather Service (NWS) provides weather, hydrologic, and climate
forecasts and warnings for the United States, its territories, adjacent waters and
ocean areas, for the protection of life and property and the enhancement of the
national economy.
The mission of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is to lead
the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal
response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates
proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders, and manages the National
Flood Insurance Program.
The mission of the Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) is to reduce
the social and economic effects of natural disasters and other property losses by
conducting research and advocating improved construction, maintenance and preparation
practices.
The mission of the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes - FLASH, Inc. is to promote
life safety, property protection and economic well-being by strengthening homes
and safeguarding families from natural and manmade disasters.
Intellicast provides extensive specialized weather information to help plan
all outdoor and weather sensitive activities, whether golfing, sailing, hiking,
skiing or relaxing at the beach.
ISO is a leading source of information about risk. They supply data, analytics,
and decision-support services for professionals in many fields, including insurance,
finance, real estate, health services, government, and human resources.
Click the logo to view the simulated effects of a hurricane as it increases in intensity.