Hurricane Checklist

Hurricanes are tropical cyclones with winds reaching sustained speeds of 74 miles per hour or more and blowing around a relatively calm center, the “eye” of the hurricane. Hurricanes begin as relatively small tropical cyclones that drift gradually to the westnorthwest. Under certain conditions and as they move away from the equator, these cyclones can increase in size, speed, and intensity until they become full-fledged hurricanes. Hurricanes combine violent winds, torrential rains, and abnormally high waves and storm tides. Heavy and prolonged hurricane rains falling over the hillsides can cause landslides and severe flash flooding. Large ocean swells moving out ahead of the hurricane may begin to reach the shores while the storm itself is still hundreds of miles away. As the hurricane nears the coastline, the storm tides and the high winddriven waves can inundate coastal areas, erode beaches, pound and undermine waterfront structures, highways and other facilities. Follow the steps below prior to, during and after a hurricane.

PREPARING FOR THE HURRICANE SEASON (FROM JUNE THROUGH NOVEMBER)

☐ Learn the elevation and the flooding and wind damage history of your area.

☐ If you live or work near the flood zone, learn safe transportation routes inland.

☐ Learn the location of official shelters or make arrangements with friends or relatives inland to stay with them until the storm has passed.

Read more: Hurricane Checklist