HURRICANE SEASON GUIDE

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HOW STRONG CAN STORMS GET?

Tropical Storm

WINDS 39–73 mph

Tropical storms are weaker than hurricanes, but can cause flooding from intense rainfall, and some property damage

Category 1 Hurricane

WINDS 74–95 mph| STORM SURGE 4–5 ft

Possible injuries from flying/falling debris Possible damage to roof, shingles, vinyl siding, and gutters Large tree branches will snap and shallowly rooted trees may be toppled Power outages could last several days

Category 2 Hurricane

WINDS 96–110 mph | STORM SURGE 6–8 ft

Flying/falling debris can be a threat .Roofing, siding, and glass windows vulnerable. Can cause structural damage to apartment buildings and mobile homes. Power outages can last a few weeks. Stock up on potable water, as filtration systems can fail.

Category 3 Hurricane

WINDS 111–130 mph

Mobile/poorly constructed frame homes can be destroyed. Significant damage to apartments possible extensive inland flooding. Electricity/water might be unavailable for several days/weeks after the storm.

Category 4 Hurricane

WINDS131–155 mph | STORM SURGE 13–18 ft

Can cause catastrophic damage to property, humans, and animals. Severe structural damage to mobile/frame homes and apartments. Long-term power/water outages can last for weeks to months.

Category 5 Hurricane

WINDS 155+ mph | STORM SURGE 18+ ft

You should be nowhere near this storm. Can cause complete destruction of mobile/frame homes and apartments. Nearly all trees in area might be uprooted. Power/water outages can last for months. Area could be uninhabitable for months

WHAT IS A HURRICANE WATCH?

A hurricane watch is issued when there is a threat of hurricane conditions within 48 hours.

What to do during a Hurricane Watch

WHAT IS A HURRICANE WARNING?

A hurricane warning is issued when hurricane conditions (winds of 74 miles per hour or greater, or dangerously high water and rough seas) are expected in 36 hours or less.

What to do during a Hurricane Warning?

If Evacuation is Necessary

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ADEQUATE DISASTER SUPPLIES

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR HOME

Permanent shutters are the best protection. A lower-cost approach is to put up plywood panels. Use at least 1/2 inch plywood cut to fit each window. Remember to mark which board fits which window. Pre-drill holes every 18 inches for screws. Trim back dead or weak branches from trees. Check into flood insurance. You can find out about the National Flood Insurance Program through your local insurance agent or emergency management office. There is a 30-day waiting period before a new policy becomes effective. Homeowners policies generally do not cover damage from the flooding that accompanies a hurricane.

DEVELOPING A FAMILY PLAN

In case family members are separated from one another during a disaster (a real possibility during the day when adults are at work and children are at school), have a plan for getting back together. Ask an out-of-town relative or friend to serve as the “family contact.” After a disaster, it’s often easier to call long distance. Make sure everyone in the family knows the name, address, and phone number of the contact person.

POST-HURRICANE